Why addiction can affect autistic people
Some autistic people are less likely to try alcohol or drugs. This might be because they feel anxious about doing something new or prefer to avoid risky situations. However, if they do try alcohol or drugs, they may be more likely to develop a problem. This is linked to how autism can affect thinking, feeling, and behaviour.
Some reasons why addiction may happen:
Masking: Some autistic people use alcohol or drugs to hide their autistic traits and try to fit in. This can become a habit in social situations.
Routine: Addiction can feel like a routine. As manySome autistic people find comfort in repetition for some, drinking alcohol or using drugs could or it can become part of a predictable daily pattern.
Lack of support: If someone doesn’t get the right support, they may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope.
Managing emotions: Alcohol or drugs might be used to deal with stress, anxiety, or other strong feelings.
Late diagnosis: If someone finds out they are autistic later in life, they may have spent years without understanding themselves or getting help, developing unhealthy coping strategies.
Other health conditions: Many autistic people also live with mental or physical health conditions like depression and chronic pain. These can increase the risk of addiction.
What is addiction?
Addiction means a person keeps using something or doing something even when it causes problems in their life. This could be alcohol, drugs, gambling, self-harm, or other behaviours. It can affect health, relationships, work, and everyday life
Addiction is not a choice or a failure. It is something that needs care and support.
Prevention strategies
There are ways to reduce the risk of addiction. These focus on support, understanding, and healthy coping tools.
Helpful strategies:
- Getting early support when things feel overwhelming
- Having safe, accepting spaces where masking isn’t needed
- Learning about autism and your own needs
- Building healthy routines that support wellbeing
- Accessing mental health support that understands autism
- Connecting with others through peer support
Getting the right support
Support should be tailored to each person. For autistic people, this means:
- Understanding how autism affects you
- Respecting your communication style and sensory needs
- Giving clear, honest information
- Offering choices and control over your treatment
Support might include:
- Talking to your GP or another health professional
- Getting help from a local drug and alcohol service like turning point
- Asking for an autism-aware therapist or support worker
- Joining peer support groups (online or in person)
Recovery is not just about stopping alcohol or drug use. It’s about building a life that feels safe, healthy, and meaningful to you.
You are not alone
If you are autistic and struggling with addiction, or if you care for someone who is, you are not alone. Many people have been through this and found ways to recover and thrive.
You deserve support that understands you and respects your needs.
