Studies show that individuals with untreated ADHD often self-medication with alcohol or illegal drugs. Not having treatment is more likely to cause drug abuse than to take a stimulant for ADHD. It’s a common misconception, but it’s not fact nonetheless.
ADHD is a physiological difference in the brain, where neurochemicals aren’t naturally “adequate.” ADHD medications, specifically stimulants, work to even that out to more “normal” levels. Yes, there can be side effects.
A Patient’s Primer on the Stimulant Medications Used to Treat ADHD
Penny
ADDitude Community Moderator, Parenting ADHD Trainer & Author, Mom to teen w/ ADHD, LDs, and autism