Autism and Addiction: Substance Use in Autistic People

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect a person’s mental health and emotional regulation. For some autistic individuals, substance use becomes a way to cope. This means that finding the proper treatment becomes more difficult due to the complexity of co-occurring disorders. 

The Relationship Between Autism and Addiction

Research regarding the relationship between addiction and autism has grown over the years. Many studies have proven and shown that autistic people are more likely to develop substance use disorders.

There are different reasons as to why this may be the case, and it’s proven to be a step forward from the previous assumption that autism protects against addiction. Despite the complexities that come when these two conditions co-occur, learning about their impact helps autistic people find the right treatment. 

Why Autistic People Are Likely To Abuse Substances

Autistic people are more likely to abuse harmful substances, and this abuse can be associated with different reasons, such as: 

Sensory Overload and Anxiety

One symptom of autism is heightened sensitivity to sensory input. What may seem like a usual busy street for some people can translate into an overwhelming or painful sensory overload for autistic people. 

Sensory inputs that become too much can lead to shutdowns and even meltdowns. Without the appropriate coping tools or support, autistic people may turn to harmful substances to calm down their nervous systems. However, what may seem like a temporary relief can slowly lead to dependency.

Self-Medicating Mental Health Challenges

There are many cases of co-occurring mental health disorders where autism exists with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health conditions. When support is unavailable or not enough for co-occurring disorders, many people may use substances like alcohol or recreational drugs to self-medicate. Some may even abuse their prescriptions in hopes of feeling a better sense of relief. 

Social Isolation 

Since autistic adolescents and adults perceive the world differently from their peers, social isolation becomes more common. They may experience challenges with communication and have difficulty interpreting social cues from others. Navigating a world that doesn’t cater to the needs of neurodivergent people can lead to a sense of loneliness and rejection over time. 

To cope with the pain of feeling left out, some may use substances to reduce social anxiety in group settings. Those who feel nervous in social situations may use drugs and alcohol to ease their nerves and feel more “normal.”

Difficulty Accessing Support

Another reason why many autistic people may turn to addiction is because of the difficulty in accessing the proper support for their disorder. Many traditional treatments don’t cater to neurodivergent people, and these traditional environments may feel overly stimulating for them. 

Autistic people may feel like they don’t have accessible or effective treatments, which can lead them to feel dismissed or unsupported. As a result, abusing substances becomes a way for them to cope in a world that fails to address the full picture of autism. 

Misdiagnosis 

So many cases of autism are underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Cases of misdiagnosis are even more common among women and people of colour due to outdated diagnostic criteria and masking behaviours. 

When autism is misdiagnosed or continues to go undiagnosed, it can affect a person’s physical and mental health. They won’t have the proper support needed to cope in these situations, which means they may turn to self-medication and dependency on harmful substances.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person sees the world. Remember that ASD isn’t a disease or illness. Rather, it’s a condition that exists on a spectrum, which means the condition can manifest differently.

Some may excel in certain areas of life because of their autism, while others are more likely to encounter certain challenges because of how they perceive the world. Either way, recognising autism’s existence and the needs that come with it can help autistic people better navigate life. 

Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms

Since autism exists on a spectrum, it also means that the symptoms are different for each person who has the condition. Those who have autism may experience the following:

• Trouble interpreting social cues and understanding the facial expressions of other people
• Repetitive behaviours and routines, such as repeating words or rocking
• Heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory input, which can make bright lights or loud noises overwhelming
• Intense interest in specific topics that can sometimes become a part of an autistic person’s identity
• Difficulty making and maintaining friendships and relationships

What is Alcohol or Drug Addiction?

Addiction is a condition where a person feels the compulsive need to keep using harmful substances like alcohol or drugs. Even if they know that the behaviour comes with negative consequences, they still feel like 

Those with addiction struggle with a chronic, relapsing disease. They need to receive the proper support to manage and overcome their symptoms, even after they receive treatment. This is why aftercare support programmes are also very important for preventing relapse. 

What Are the Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder will also look different for everyone. There are different symptoms that come with the condition, and identifying these symptoms early on can help someone struggling with addiction receive the right support. 

Behavioural Signs

A person struggling with substance abuse usually has sudden changes in their behaviour. For example, some people may suddenly withdraw from their peers or loved ones. Others may suddenly be uninterested in their hobbies and other passions in life. 

Another behavioural sign of substance use is neglecting responsibilities. Since a person with an addiction becomes so focused on using drugs or alcohol, they might abandon their work, hygiene, and other important obligations as a result. 

Physical Signs

Addiction can also show up physically, with the condition having long-lasting consequences on someone’s physical health. Depending on the substance, a person may have dilated or bloodshot eyes.

Unexplained weight loss or gain may also happen because of addiction. Some substances make someone hungry all the time, while other substances may curb one’s appetite. Visible signs of drug use, like track marks or poor coordination, may also indicate addiction.  

Emotional Signs

Substance abuse can affect one’s brain chemistry, which means a person may experience frequent mood swings and emotional numbness because of it. There may be instances where a person will feel happy and euphoric and then suddenly become irritable and angry. These mood swings happen because the substance disrupts the neurotransmitter balance in the brain. 

Addiction Treatment for Autistic Individuals

For autistic adults and individuals, addiction treatment should be tailored to their needs and conditions. Here are some common addiction treatment options:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used therapies for addiction. For autistic adults, this kind of therapy can help overcome substance use disorder, but it’s important to tailor the approach accordingly. Complementing standard CBT sessions with structured sessions and the use of visual aids can help promote better recovery.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a form of psychotherapy originally developed for people with disorders. Since then, it’s been adapted for different kinds of mental health conditions, including substance use disorders. Many autistic people experience heightened emotional sensitivity, and DBT can teach practical, skills-based strategies to overcome addiction. It’s an approach that helps build self-awareness for a more sustainable recovery.

Occupational Therapy

Another way to approach addiction and autism is through occupational therapy. This kind of therapy can help establish structure and manage sensory sensitivities that occur alongside autism.

Since addiction can disrupt a person’s life, occupational therapists can help with developing personalised strategies to improve functioning in daily life. It’s a step further from just talking through problems since these professionals offer practical solutions to manage their symptoms.

Sensory Integration Therapy

Autistic people can have difficulty processing sensory information, and that’s where Sensory Integration Therapy becomes of great help. In the context of addiction, unaddressed sensory challenges can drive substance use.

Through Sensory Integration Therapy, the nervous system can gradually become more organised and adaptive. Autistic people are guided through activities that can help manage their environment, so they slowly reduce their reliance on harmful substances.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is when professionals prescribe medications to support recovery from substance dependence. Autistic adults can benefit from MAT, but it’s important to account for different sensitivities and communication preferences they may experience. Some may find it difficult to follow dosing schedules without proper support.

Psychoeducation and Life Skills Training

In addiction recovery, psychoeducation and life skills training can provide practical knowledge and tools to navigate daily life. Psychoeducation involves teaching patients how autism and addiction can interact with each other. It’s a way for patients to make sense of past challenges and identify helpful coping mechanisms. 

On the other hand, life skills training is when autistic individuals learn essential everyday abilities,  such as managing finances, maintaining a household, developing social skills, and problem-solving. These help increase independence and reduce stressors that might contribute to substance abuse.

Group Therapy

Evidence-based therapies can also be conducted in a group setting. Although group therapies can be a bit scary for autistic people, they can be a structure where they can connect with others who have similar experiences. Group therapies can be tailored to neurodivergent individuals by conducting them in small group sizes and having a facilitator who understands autism and can guide the conversation.

Holistic and Alternative Therapies

In addition to different evidence-based therapies, holistic therapies can also provide a more well-rounded recovery experience for autistic individuals. They’re a great alternative for autistic individuals who find traditional talk therapy emotionally draining.

Practices like mindfulness and meditation help improve self-awareness and emotional regulation, while nature-based therapies can create a calming and grounding experience. Although these therapies shouldn’t replace clinical treatments, they can still help autistic people build resilience and find moments of peace. 

Overcome Addiction with Steps Together

At Steps Together, we acknowledge the importance of programmes that address an autistic person’s unique perception of the world. Our neurodivergent-friendly programmes are designed with these needs in mind, and we offer therapies that support both addiction recovery and autism-related needs.

These conditions shouldn’t stop you from being the best and most authentic version of yourself, and we’re here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our team members today to learn more. 

FAQs

Does addiction look different for autistic people?

Yes. Some signs of addiction may look the same, but there are cases where autistic individuals mask their struggles more intensely. This can make the signs of addiction less obvious, and it will be more challenging to offer the proper support.

Can autism be misdiagnosed as addiction (or vice versa)?

Unfortunately, the two can be misdiagnosed for each other. The symptoms of these two conditions can overlap, which can make the diagnosis more complicated. A dual-diagnosis assessment is important to provide the right care. 

How can I support an autistic loved one who is struggling with addiction?

Learning about autism, addiction, and what happens when they co-exist can help you provide better support. Encouraging professional help while being respectful of their communication style can also make a significant difference.

What should I look for in addiction treatment if I am autistic?

It’s important to look for treatment programmes that acknowledge neurodiversity. These types of approaches help better support your needs, making you feel more safe and respected throughout your treatment.