Screen ADHD First

About

About this project

A small, independent educational site dedicated to translating the research on ADHD and substance use disorders into plain, careful language.

Who it’s for

Adults wondering about themselves, parents wondering about their children, partners and friends trying to understand a loved one, and clinicians who want a clear starting page to share.

Editorial principles

  • Plain language over jargon.
  • Peer-reviewed sources for every numerical claim.
  • No promotion of any clinic, product, or treatment provider.
  • Updated when the evidence base shifts.

Disclaimer

This website provides general information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not establish a clinician-patient relationship, and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a qualified professional. If you are in crisis, please contact emergency services or a crisis helpline.

References

  1. [1]Wilens, T. E., et al. (2011). Does ADHD predict substance-use disorders? A 10-year follow-up study. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 50(6), 543–553.
  2. [2]van Emmerik-van Oortmerssen, K., et al. (2012). Prevalence of ADHD in substance use disorder patients: meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 122(1–2), 11–19.
  3. [3]Lee, S. S., et al. (2011). Prospective association of childhood ADHD and substance use and abuse/dependence: a meta-analytic review. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(3), 328–341.
  4. [4]Wilens, T. E. (2004). Impact of ADHD and its treatment on substance abuse in adults. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 65 (Suppl 3), 38–45.
  5. [5]Volkow, N. D., et al. (2009). Evaluating dopamine reward pathway in ADHD: clinical implications. JAMA, 302(10), 1084–1091.
  6. [6]Groenman, A. P., et al. (2013). Stimulant treatment for ADHD and risk of developing substance use disorder. British Journal of Psychiatry, 203(2), 112–119.
  7. [7]Quinn, P. D., et al. (2017). ADHD medication and substance-related problems. American Journal of Psychiatry, 174(9), 877–885.

Additional supporting literature available on request.