Study: ADHD may lead some kids toward substance abuse

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry shows that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may increase the odds of using drugs and alcohol during adulthood, Scientific American reports.

Researchers concluded that children with ADHD also have a strong risk of abusing marijuana, cocaine, and other unspecified drugs. They added that a disorder in which patients are unable to focus on tasks and fail to control their impulses may mean doctors and parents need to work together to prevent future substance abuse.

Researchers suggest that individuals with ADHD need extra support and guidance. They added that supervised activities outside of school may help them achieve this and it is important to find something they excel in.

Recreational boarding schools can help children who suffer from ADHD. These learning institutions allow individuals to achieve success through education and group therapy.

According to the Centers for Disease Control reports that nearly 4.1 million children had a current diagnosis of ADHD in 2007.