Inpatient Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders
When someone experiences both autism and addiction, getting truly integrated care is very important. This dual diagnosis means more than just separate treatments; it needs a clear understanding of how autism affects substance use. Only with complete, combined support can people find worthwhile and lasting recovery.
At Castle Craig, our personalised rehab approach helps with the close connection between autism and addiction through our caring experts. Our location in the peaceful Scottish Borders provides a secluded and tranquil environment where tailored treatment plans guide each patient. We combine proven therapies with a deep understanding of individual patient needs, helping them achieve real healing and long-term recovery. Call us today on 01721 546 263 if you are looking for inpatient addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one with autism, or read on for more information.
What Is Autism?
Autism is a developmental disability that affects how people communicate and interact in the world. It is often referred to as a “spectrum condition”, as it impacts people in different ways and to varying degrees. 1
More than one in 100 people are estimated to be on the autism spectrum, and it is a lifelong condition. Each autistic person will have their own unique experience, but there are often some common shared difficulties.
What Causes Autism?
The causes of autism remain unclear, but evidence suggests that it is genetic and not caused by emotional deprivation or a person’s upbringing. Research has explored the fact that multiple genes might be responsible, rather than a single one. There is no “cure” as such – autism is a condition that lasts throughout a person’s life.
We know that:
- Autism is significantly more common in males. 2
- A family history of autism increases the likelihood. 3
- Autism is present from birth and is usually diagnosed in childhood. However, some people reach adulthood before they receive a diagnosis.
- Many autistic people live their lives without ever being diagnosed. This makes it difficult to ascertain exactly how many people are living with autism.
What is Autism and Addiction as a Co-occurring Disorder?
When autism, a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference, occurs alongside drug or alcohol addiction, it forms a co-occurring disorder. This means a person has both a substance use disorder and autism at the same time. Understanding this dual diagnosis is important for finding the right kind of help, as one condition can often affect the other.
People with autism may turn to substances to cope with challenges like social anxiety, sensory overload, or difficulty managing strong feelings. This self-medication can quickly lead to addiction. When these two conditions are present, standard addiction treatment might not be effective alone. An integrated approach that addresses both the impact of autism and substance use is beneficial for effective recovery.
Rehab for Addiction and Autism
What is Addiction and Autism Rehab Treatment?
Effective addiction and autism rehab treatment is a personalised journey adapted to each patient’s unique profile. It involves customising traditional rehab programmes to effectively support people with autism, ensuring the therapeutic environment and methods align with their specific sensory and communication needs.
Central to autism and addiction rehab treatment is altering how therapy is delivered. This might mean clearer communication, managing sensory input within sessions and structured learning for social skills or emotional processing. Rather than simply addressing substance use, this approach helps patients develop worthwhile coping tools for life’s challenges, empowering them to sustain addiction recovery and improve overall well-being.
Symptoms of Autism and Its Link to Drug and Alcohol Addiction
Recognising the symptoms of autism helps to understand how it shapes an individual’s experiences. These characteristics, which include differences in social interaction, communication and behaviour, can also be related to a person’s vulnerability to drug and alcohol addiction. Gaining insight into these signs is important for providing effective support for ASD and dependency in the UK.
According to the National Autistic Society, common symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder include:
- Finding social communication difficult: It can be hard for some autistic people to interpret other people’s gestures or tone of voice. They may take things literally, find it hard to understand sarcasm or need extra time to process information and answer questions.
- Finding social interaction difficult: Some autistic people find it hard to understand other people, and what they might be feeling. Consequently, they may find it hard to make friends, appear to act strangely in social situations, or need time alone and away from others when it all feels too much.
- Being sensitive to sensory overload: Some people may be extremely sensitive to things like light, sound, light, taste, touch, temperature, and even pain.
- Experiencing extreme anxiety: Many autistic people experience intense anxiety, particularly in social situations or when going through a period of change.
- Engaging in repetitive behaviours: Often, there is a preference for routine, and any changes to this routine can cause additional anxiety. This could mean the person wants to eat the same food for breakfast every day or is unsettled by an event such as Christmas or a change at work.
- Finding it hard to manage emotions: Feeling overwhelmed can result in intense and exhausting experiences for an autistic person. This can sometimes result in the person shutting down and withdrawing, but can also lead to a meltdown, where the person loses control and lashes out verbally or physically.
- Having a particularly intense mental focus: A specific hobby or interest can start at a young age, and may or may not change over time. Autistic people can become experts in a subject, although sometimes this might be to the detriment of other things in their lives.
Free Assessment for Autism and Addiction
We offer free autism and addiction assessments as part of our admissions process.
Does Autism Increase the Risk of Addiction?
Autistic people are more likely to develop an addiction or substance use disorder than neurotypical people, and there are many reasons why this is the case. To provide effective treatment, it is paramount that mental health professionals understand the relationship between addiction and autism and feel confident in their ability to adapt therapeutic programmes appropriately.
It used to be considered that autistic people were less at risk of developing substance abuse problems. However, recent research suggests that, on the contrary, autistic people are more at risk of developing a substance use disorder than people who are not autistic. One study showed that autistic people had double the risk of developing an addiction compared to neurotypical people. 4
Other studies have estimated that up to around 30% of autistic people could develop a substance use disorder at some point in their lives. 5,6 What’s more, it has even been suggested that a diagnosis of both autism and substance use disorder increases a person’s mortality risk. 7
Why Are Autistic People More At Risk Of Addiction?
Autistic people may develop an addiction to drugs or alcohol for the same reasons as anyone else. However, those in the autism community also face additional daily challenges, which can increase their chances of developing a dependency.
Many would say that living in a world predominantly designed for neurotypical people can be highly stressful. Using substances can become a coping mechanism for some autistic people to help with managing everyday life.
Addictive behaviour can help autistic people to function in various ways:
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Alcohol or Drugs to Help Quiet Thoughts and Emotions
One study found that autistic adults sometimes find themselves caught up in a “jumble of thoughts and emotions”.5 This can be overwhelming, and some autistic people may turn to alcohol and drugs to dampen down the internal noise.
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Drinking to Increase a Sense of Confidence in Social Situations
Some autistic people find social situations highly challenging and experience intense anxiety. They may find that using substances helps to reduce this excruciating anxiety, enabling them to function and manage better in social environments.
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Substance Misuse May Help a Person Mask or Hide Their Autistic Qualities
Many autistic people feel awkward in social situations and try to camouflage their autistic tendencies so that they fit in. However, this masking can lead to exhaustion and mental health issues. 7,8
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Alcohol and Other Substances Can Temporarily Reduce Distressing Feelings
Autistic people experience the world differently, and at times this can result in intensely uncomfortable feelings, such as frustration and loneliness. To temporarily alleviate distress, some autistic people may turn to substances or other addictive behaviours to numb their pain.
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How Do I Know If An Autistic Person Has An Addiction?
Some autistic people have particular hobbies or restricted interests that they like to spend a lot of time doing, but this in itself isn’t considered to be an addiction, even though it may take up a lot of hours.
To spot signs of addiction, look out for:
- Work or finances being negatively impacted by a particular behaviour
- A deterioration in mood or relationships
- Not being able to stop doing an activity or behaviour
- Relying on the activity or behaviour to cope with life
Autism and Addiction Diagnosis
If you’re worried that you or a loved one might have an addiction alongside autism, then the first step is to speak to a general practitioner (GP). GPs can carry out an initial assessment and decide whether further evaluation is necessary. If required, they can then refer you or your loved one to a specialist for a formal dual diagnosis.
Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder and Addiction
To provide better treatment outcomes, more research is needed to look at the specific ways in which addiction affects autistic people. However, even without further research, we know that autistic people can best be helped by personalised treatment, with addiction programmes carefully adapted to suit their needs.
As autism affects people differently, drug and alcohol rehab treatment interventions need to be carefully tailored for each individual; what works well for one person may not be so effective for someone else. It goes without saying that while people may have the same autism diagnosis, they may have very different therapeutic needs.
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CBT for Autism and Drug or Alcohol Addiction
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a highly effective form of talking therapy which is often used in substance addiction treatment. CBT has also been shown to be beneficial in treating autistic people with addiction, particularly when certain adaptations are made. To this end, the therapy needs to be modified so that it is more structured, direct and supported with written guidance. In addition, it might also be the case that autistic patients are likely to require more sessions than other client groups. 9
One of the keys to successful therapy is ensuring therapists understand autism and how it interacts with addiction. Ensuring health professionals have a good understanding of autism is paramount to improving the success of addiction treatment for this patient group.
In one study, therapists were given training by autism experts. The training taught them about the features of autism, and how to adjust standard therapy sessions to best suit the needs of autistic people. The therapists then worked with autistic people with substance use disorders. Out of the four autistic people who completed the therapy programme, three either completely stopped or reduced their substance use. All the therapists agreed that understanding autism was crucial in providing the right treatment for this group. 9
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Medically Managed Detox for Patients With an ASD
For patients with autism requiring medically managed detox, standard procedures often need careful adjustment. Withdrawal from substances can be highly distressing, and for autistic individuals, sensory overload or changes in routine can intensify discomfort. A tailored detox approach is important for a safe and calmer start to their addiction treatment journey.
Specific alterations during detox might include managing sensory input within the environment, such as quiet spaces or dimmed lighting. Clear, direct communication is prioritised, avoiding ambiguous language or overwhelming information. A consistent, predictable schedule helps reduce anxiety. Understanding and respecting personal space is also a worthwhile adaptation, helping people feel more secure during this sensitive time.
At Castle Craig, our approach to medically managed residential detox for patients with autism is truly person-centred. Our caring staff implements these adaptations, providing a truly structured and supportive environment for withdrawal. We focus on individual comfort and safety, ensuring each person receives expert care tailored to their unique needs, paving the way for worthwhile ongoing addiction treatment plans.
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Private Confidential Autism and Addiction Treatment
For people with autism managing addiction, accessing private confidential treatment can be exceptionally valuable. A discreet setting supports deep personal work without external pressures, which is important for those with sensory sensitivities or social anxieties. Such privacy allows patients to explore challenging issues openly, making their recovery journey truly effective.
At Castle Craig, we understand the need for a private rehab environment. Our commitment to discretion means patients with autism and addiction can undergo treatment in complete confidence. Our peaceful Scottish Borders location creates a calm, private space, away from public view, where patients can focus undistracted on their treatment plans and achieve lasting recovery in a truly serene setting.
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Extended Rehab Treatment for Addiction and ASD Diagnoses
Extended or long-term rehab treatment for addiction and ASD diagnoses means a longer period of residential care. This allows more time for deeper therapeutic engagement, especially important when addressing the complexities of co-occurring autism. It provides consistent support and a stable environment, which helps people process their experiences and integrate new coping strategies effectively.
A prolonged stay, such as 90 days or more, in rehab offers worthwhile opportunities to consolidate skills. Patients gain extended practice in managing emotions, refining social communication, and handling sensory differences, all key for lasting change. Consistent practice in a safe environment helps patients manage sensory processing differences, helping newly acquired behaviours become ingrained habits for a healthier future.
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Holistic Drug and Alcohol Treatment for Sensory Processing
For people with autism impacted by sensory processing differences, holistic drug and alcohol treatment offers a pathway to regulation. Rather than using substances to control overwhelming sensory input or find calm, these therapeutic approaches help cultivate internal balance. The goal is to provide alternative, healthier outlets for sensory needs, directly addressing a core vulnerability in addiction.
At Castle Craig, our integrated therapies provide a unique experience for autism and addiction recovery. Our tranquil setting, combined with activities such as mindful walks or quiet creative sessions, offers avenues for sensory modulation. Patients find comfort and self-expression through diverse treatment plans, allowing them to build healthy emotional and sensory coping skills in a supportive environment, leading to worthwhile healing.
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Family and Support Networks for Autism and Addiction
Recovery from addiction brings significant life changes, and a robust support network makes a considerable difference in achieving lasting sobriety. For autistic people, involving family and friends in this process is worthwhile. Their understanding can help loved ones cope with new routines and social adjustments, providing stability during a transformative period and reducing relapse risk.
Family and friends can reduce relapse risk by actively learning about autism’s impact on recovery and engaging in family therapy for addiction and autism. This might involve adapting communication styles, respecting sensory needs, and consistently reinforcing positive behaviours learned in rehab treatment. Such a structured and empathetic support system helps autistic people integrate new skills into daily life. This collective effort is beneficial for sustained addiction recovery and a healthier future.
Other Therapies for Autism and Substance Addiction
When addressing autism and substance addiction, therapeutic interventions must be carefully adapted. Conventional addiction treatment often requires adjustments to accommodate autistic communication styles, sensory needs and processing differences. Tailoring these methods is highly important for supporting patients effectively, enabling them to truly engage with their recovery journey and acquire lasting skills.
Here are some therapeutic approaches that can be particularly beneficial for people undergoing rehab treatment for autism and substance addiction:
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): DBT skills focused on distress tolerance and emotional regulation can be valuable. These modules provide practical strategies for coping with intense feelings and difficult situations without turning to substances.
- Psychoeducation: Clear factual information about both autism and addiction is worthwhile. This understanding empowers patients, helping them make sense of their experiences and how different aspects of their conditions interact.
- Social Skills Training: Direct instruction and practice in social communication helps reduce anxiety in social settings, a common trigger for substance use. Learning these skills in a safe environment supports greater confidence.
- Sensory Regulation Strategies: Therapies that help manage sensory sensitivities (e.g., sound, light, touch) can reduce discomfort. Learning to process sensory input differently offers non-substance ways to achieve calm and self-soothe.
Autism and Addiction Co-Occurring Disorder Related Guides
Dual Diagnosis | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Teens | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Women | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Men | Luxury Dual Diagnosis Rehab
Mental Health and Autism Spectrum Disorder Related Guides
ADHD and addiction | Anxiety and addiction | Depression and addiction | OCD and addiction | Personality disorders and addiction | PTSD and addiction | Schizophrenia and addiction | Social anxiety and addiction | Eating disorders and addiction
How to Get Help for Addiction and Autism Spectrum Disorder in the UK
Dealing with substance addiction when also living with autism spectrum disorder requires compassionate guidance in the UK. Finding addiction help that integrates an understanding of both conditions is essential. Residential rehab often stands out as a strong choice for people facing this dual diagnosis, offering a concentrated approach to recovery.
Inpatient rehab treatment for autism and addiction provides an immersive setting where individuals can completely step away from daily triggers and external pressures. This dedicated environment allows for highly structured addiction care that respects the unique needs of autistic patients. The round-the-clock support and a focus on personalised treatment plans make it a beneficial option for achieving lasting sobriety and improved well-being for this complex dual diagnosis.
ASD-Related Addiction Treatment at Castle Craig
At Castle Craig, we offer comprehensive and individualised treatment programmes. Our highly experienced team of therapists, psychiatrists, medical staff and addiction workers are here to support you on your recovery journey.
Our skilled addiction specialists understand autism and know how to adapt treatment in the best way. We are fully aware that intensive addiction treatment programmes can feel daunting, particularly if social interaction is required as part of group therapy. Be assured that we will provide the necessary support throughout the process.
Our Approach to ASD and Addiction Rehab
At Castle Craig, our approach for people with autism navigating addiction acknowledges their unique perspectives, helping them achieve genuine personal growth. We create a place where healing can truly flourish with deep understanding, empowering patients to build a meaningful life free from substance dependence. Get in touch to learn how our dedicated care can light your way to lasting well-being.
Does Private Health Insurance Cover ASD and Addiction Treatment in the UK?
Yes, private health insurance in the UK can cover autism and addiction treatment, often as part of a dual diagnosis provision. The extent of coverage varies significantly depending on your specific policy and provider.
Most policies offer some level of mental health support, including talking therapies like counselling or CBT. However, for comprehensive residential rehab that integrates treatment for both autism and addiction, you’ll likely need a more extensive or executive-level plan, and it’s important to verify what your policy covers for pre-existing conditions or dual diagnoses.
Contact Castle Craig Inpatient Rehab Clinic
Overcoming addiction when living with autism is a journey that can lead to profound personal transformation. With integrated care and genuine understanding, individuals are fully supported in addressing both conditions effectively. Embracing a path of recovery brings renewed hope and the promise of a more fulfilling life, free from the grip of substance misuse.
At Castle Craig, we stand ready to guide you or your loved one through the complexities of autism and addiction treatment. Our dedicated team delivers compassionate, personalised treatment plans designed for comprehensive recovery. We create a supportive environment where true progress is made. For a confidential discussion about starting this important journey, please call us on 01721 546 263 today.
Confidential Autism and Addiction Assessment
Compassionate, expertly delivered evidence-based practices and a patient-centred approach are at the heart of our treatment model. Request a call-back from one of our professionals on any day of the week.
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References
1. National Autistic Society. What is autism? [Accessed 21 August 2024].
2. The Health and Social Care Information Centre. Estimating The Prevalence Of Autism Spectrum Conditions In Adults – Extending The 2007 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey. [Accessed 21 August 2024.]
3. Sandin S, Lichtenstein P, Kuja-Halkola R, Larsson H, Hultman CM, Reichenberg A. The familial risk of autism. JAMA. 2014;311(17):1770-1777. doi:10.1001/jama.2014.4144 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4381277
4. Butwicka A, Långström N, Larsson H, Lundström S, Serlachius E, Almqvist C, Frisén L, Lichtenstein P. Increased Risk for Substance Use-Related Problems in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Population-Based Cohort Study. J Autism Dev Disord. 2017;47(1):80-89. doi:10.1007/s10803-016-2914-2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5222913
5. Kronenberg LM, Slager-Visscher K, Goossens PJ, van den Brink W, van Achterberg T. Everyday life consequences of substance use in adult patients with a substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD): a patient’s perspective. BMC Psychiatry. 2014;14:264. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4173065
6. Sizoo B, van den Brink W, Koeter M, Gorissen van Eenige M, van Wijngaarden-Cremers P, & van der Gaag RJ. Treatment seeking adults with autism or ADHD and co-morbid substance use disorder: prevalence, risk factors and functional disability. Drug and alcohol dependence. 2010; 107(1), 44–50.
7. Huang J, Yang F, Chien W, et al. Risk of Substance Use Disorder and Its Associations With Comorbidities and Psychotropic Agents in Patients With Autism. JAMA Pediatr. 2021;175(2). Available here.
8. Hull L, Petrides KV, Allison C, Smith P, Baron-Cohen S, Lai MC, & Mandy W. “Putting on My Best Normal”: Social Camouflaging in Adults with Autism Spectrum Conditions. Journal of autism and developmental disorders. 2017; 47(8), 2519–2534. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-017-3166-5
9. Helverschou SB, Brunvold AR, Arnevik EA. Treating Patients With Co-occurring Autism Spectrum Disorder and Substance Use Disorder: A Clinical Explorative Study. Subst Abuse. 2019;13:1178221819843291.