Is there a connection between autism and substance abuse?

In recent years, proposed connections between autism and substance abuse have prompted considerable debate among researchers and healthcare professionals. For decades, experts assumed that individuals on the autism spectrum were unlikely to experiment with drugs and alcohol, much less use them compulsively.

Why are people with autism less likely to use drugs?

Studies have shown that people with autism are no more likely to have substance abuse issues than anyone else. In many cases, these individuals may be less inclined to use substances as a result of social avoidance tendencies. An important factor here is exposure.

Can a person with autism have an alcohol problem?

Individuals with more autistic traits tend to be risk-avoidant, which results in less socialization and drinking overall. So, while it is possible for someone with autism to have challenges with alcohol addiction, the fewer traits an individual has within the autism spectrum, the greater the odds of alcohol use becoming a problem.

How to get help for autism and substance abuse?

However, to better understand instances of co-occurring autism and substance use disorder, additional studies need to be conducted. If you or a loved one has autism and is using substances regularly, help is available. To learn more about treatment options for autism, contact The Recovery Village at 352.771.2700.

Is there a link between autism and Drug Abuse?

Simply stated: no. Autism does not lead to drug addiction, and drug addiction does not cause autism. However, individuals on the spectrum with less autistic traits and greater intellectual abilities tend to have a higher risk of drug addiction. The scientific community continues to learn more about the way autism and substance abuse interact.

Can a person with autism be an alcohol abuser?

So, while it is possible for someone with autism to have challenges with alcohol addiction, the fewer traits an individual has within the autism spectrum, the greater the odds of alcohol use becoming a problem. Marijuana poses the same risks for substance abuse in people with autism as it does for members of the general population.

However, to better understand instances of co-occurring autism and substance use disorder, additional studies need to be conducted. If you or a loved one has autism and is using substances regularly, help is available. To learn more about treatment options for autism, contact The Recovery Village at 352.771.2700.

Can a person with Asperger’s become addicted to something?

It’s also possible that people with Asperger’s could become addicted to substances due to the obsessive nature of their thoughts. For example, a 2013 study suggests that children who had autism were likely to spend twice as much time playing video games as were children who did not have the disorder.