270 Alcohol Use and ADHD: My Journey and "Local Sober" Approach
Jul 2, 2024
43:22
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Jenna Free, expert on ADHD and sobriety, discusses the high risk of alcohol dependence among those with ADHD. She shares her journey to sobriety and introduces the concept of 'local sober'. Topics include alcohol use disorder, reflections on the impact of alcohol, and recommendations for resources like Alcoholics Anonymous and Sober Mom Squad.
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Quick takeaways
Alcohol use can worsen ADHD symptoms and impact overall well-being.
Embrace 'local sober' approach by limiting alcohol consumption to special occasions away from home.
Deep dives
ADHD Coaching Program Benefits
Joining the focused ADHD coaching program offers significant support for individuals struggling with ADHD. Members praise the program's community aspect, structured approach, and access to resources like the member dashboard and monthly calendar. The program's flexibility in allowing members to engage at their own pace, coupled with features like live calls and private podcast feeds, adds immense value to their experience.
Personal Journey to Sobriety
The host shares her personal journey towards sobriety, shedding light on her decision to be alcohol-free for six months. Through experiences like Dry January and grappling with intense cravings, she unveils how habitual alcohol consumption impacted her well-being. The podcast delves into the host's realization of her alcohol use disorder symptoms and the significant effects of long-term alcohol dependency.
High Risk of Alcohol Addiction for Individuals with ADHD
Individuals with ADHD face an increased risk of alcohol addiction and substance abuse, as discussed in a study outlined in the podcast. The correlation between childhood ADHD and the likelihood of alcohol use disorder in adulthood is highlighted. The podcast emphasizes how ADHD symptoms, impulsivity, and emotional challenges can contribute to unhealthy alcohol consumption habits.
Alcohol's Impact on Mental and Physical Health
The podcast articulates the detrimental effects of long-term alcohol use on mental and physical health. From increased anxiety and depression to heightened risk of cancer and other illnesses, alcohol consumption poses serious health risks. It clarifies how alcohol misuse can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, disrupt brain function, and negatively impact overall well-being.
Special shoutout to @adhdwithjennafree on IG for the term 'local sober'.
Research shows that people with ADHD are at high risk for alcohol dependence.
In this episode, I open up about the struggle of using alcohol as a nightly aid to combat insomnia, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm, only to realize the negative consequences it had on my sleep and overall well-being.
Reflecting on my experience during Dry January, I discovered the extent of my cravings and how they misaligned with my values, prompting a reevaluation of my relationship with alcohol.
Tune in as we explore the higher risk of alcohol use disorder among those with ADHD, and what that can mean for us.
In the final segment, I share my approach to embracing "local sober," where I only drink on special occasions away from home.
I recommend resources such as Alcoholics Anonymous, reaching out to a friend, and the Sober Awkward podcast. Additionally, for women, I highly recommend the work of Emily Lynn Paulson and her program Sober Mom Squad.