Category: Dual Diagnosis
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ADHD isn’t an impulsivity disorder — it’s an under-arousal disorder. Understanding ADHD through dopamine, attention, and novelty-seeking explains why so many adults struggle with addiction, compulsive behaviors, and shame despite high intelligence and effort. This psychiatric perspective changes how we diagnose, treat, and support recovery.
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Adults with ADHD don’t seek novelty because they’re impulsive — they seek it because their brains are under-aroused. Understanding dopamine regulation explains why boredom feels unbearable, why stimulation can feel calming, and why ADHD overlaps with addiction and compulsive behaviors. This psychiatric perspective changes how we treat ADHD — and how much compassion we bring…
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Co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders are the rule—not the exception. Learn how PMHNPs identify and treat dual diagnosis conditions to improve addiction recovery outcomes and reduce relapse risk.
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This article is part of Medication-Assisted Treatment & Harm Reduction Psychiatry, a series examining how PMHNPs use evidence-based medications and harm reduction principles to support long-term recovery. A PMHNP’s Role in Treating Addiction: What Comprehensive Care Actually Looks Like This article is part of The PMHNP Guide to Addiction Psychiatry, a clinical education series exploring…