Substance Abuse and ASD: Ties, Treatment, and How to Address the Problem

Recent studies indicate that adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have significantly higher risk of developing a substance use diagnosis (SUD) than the general population (Butwicka, et al, 2017). With its sensory complications, social deficits, rigid behaviors and rule-following, autism was thought to offer protection for developing a SUD. However, in the 2008 book, Asperger Syndrome and Alcohol: Drinking to Cope? the authors Tinsley and Hendricks suggest that being undiagnosed or misdiagnosed might lead someone with ASD to use alcohol or drugs to self-medicate. Though this is true for some, addiction is prevalent among a generation that was diagnosed young, offered early interventions and mainstreamed.

Integrating children with autism into mainstream classrooms can raise expectations that students with ASD will seamlessly blend in and adapt to public schools, colleges and typical work settings. Socializing after school or work, managing stress, meeting deadlines and fitting in are examples of the many challenges adolescents and adults with autism face. People with an autism spectrum diagnosis are experimenting and finding relief.
Continue reading →