One in five people using drugs and alcohol have symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a major study by Irish researchers.
The study found the highest rate of ADHD was among women using benzodiazepines, which are a group of common sedative and tranquilliser medications, both prescribed legally and sold illegally on the street and online.
In addition to this study — which was a review of research across 32 countries involving almost 57,000 people — the Irish academics also conducted an online survey among 288 people in Ireland who have used substances.
This found an ADHD prevalence rate of 51%, over twice as high, and found the prevalence rate for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was 37%.
The study, carried out for Citywide Drugs Crisis Campaign, said screening for neurodiversity among…