The Alcohol ReThink Podcast with Patrick Fox

217. ADHD, Addiction & The Missing Link with Sarah Templeton

Sep 12, 2025
In this conversation, ADHD expert Sarah Templeton shares her powerful story of discovering her late ADHD diagnosis at 51. She discusses the intricate links between ADHD and addiction, noting how compulsive behaviors can lead to addictive patterns. Sarah highlights the often-overlooked signs of ADHD, particularly inattentive ADHD, and advocates for better screening within addiction services. Her insights emphasize the transformational impact of diagnosis, revealing how understanding ADHD can change lives and challenge systemic issues in education and criminal justice.
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ANECDOTE

Late-Life Diagnosis Changed Everything

  • Sarah Templeton was first suggested to check ADHD at 51 and then got diagnosed soon after.
  • That late diagnosis launched her into ADHD work and writing.
INSIGHT

ADHD Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

  • ADHD has three presentations: combined, inattentive, and hyperactive-impulsive.
  • Inattentive ADHD often gets missed and is not a "girls' only" condition.
INSIGHT

Compulsivity Links ADHD To Addiction

  • A busy brain, forgetfulness, and differing interest levels are common ADHD markers across ages.
  • Compulsivity in ADHD often morphs into addictive behaviors when unaddressed.
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