ADHD & Dopamine: Understanding the Link

What Is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition that impacts the ability to remain calm and focused. Symptoms of ADHD vary depending on the individual and type of ADHD but can significantly impact functioning in daily life.  

While neurological differences and aspects of neurodiversity can pose unique challenges, experiencing ADHD does not indicate something is “wrong” with a person. ADHD comes with benefits, and many of those with the condition are highly creative and intelligent.¹

The types of ADHD include:

• Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD: Those experiencing hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may fidget frequently, struggle to wait their turn, or interrupt during conversations.
• Inattentive ADHD: Inattentive ADHD results in difficulties concentrating, maintaining focus, or staying organized.
• Combined ADHD: Combined ADHD includes a mix of hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive symptoms.

What Is Dopamine?

Dopamine is a type of neurotransmitter that influences pleasure and attention. This chemical also impacts the reward system in the brain, meaning a deficiency can contribute to low motivation.²

Neurotransmitters like dopamine communicate with the brain and spinal cord through transporters. These transporters affect the reuptake of dopamine in the brain, and having too many can cause a dopamine deficiency. A heightened dopamine transporter density may influence ADHD but does not predispose someone to the condition.

ADHD & Dopamine: What Is the Link?

Lower dopamine levels make focusing difficult and can influence inattentive symptoms. These findings partly explain the link between ADHD and dopamine deficiency, and researchers propose that low dopamine levels are both an indicator and a potential cause of ADHD.³

ADHD dopamine deficiencies may occur for many reasons. As noted, one possibility is a higher dopamine transporter density. Other explanations could be naturally lower levels of dopamine or ineffective dopamine receptors.⁴

Effects of Low Dopamine on ADHD

A lack of dopamine can negatively impact ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD tend to be more restless as their brain constantly seeks ways to increase dopamine levels. Additionally, dopamine deficiencies affect the ability to experience pleasure, sometimes leading to apathy in depression.

Effects of dopamine deficiencies in ADHD may include:

• Difficulty regulating emotions: Because dopamine influences mood, low levels may contribute to symptoms of depression and poor emotional regulation. 
• Inattentiveness: Low dopamine is strongly associated with the inattentiveness and hyperactivity of ADHD, often resulting in noticeable problems staying focused and completing tasks.
• Apathy: Dopamine influences the reward system. Thus, lower levels can decrease motivation and lead to apathy.
• Risky behaviors: Impulsive or risky behaviors can elicit a dopamine “boost” coveted by those with ADHD. The “rush” of these actions can provide temporary pleasure and excitement.
• Interpersonal issues: Individuals with ADHD can be prone to arguing with their loved ones because the conflict can cause a spike in dopamine.

Why Do People With ADHD Crave Dopamine?

From a neurological perspective, people naturally seek ways to improve and balance dopamine deficiency. Dopamine cravings encourage them to seek behaviors that increase dopamine, even if these actions are dangerous. In other cases, they may experience reward deficiency syndrome (RDS), a condition in which they feel unsatisfied with the natural level of dopamine rewards available.⁵

ADHD & Dopamine-Seeking Behavior

As mentioned, low dopamine can cause cravings for immediate dopamine rushes. Therefore, many individuals with ADHD often engage in dopamine-seeking behaviors that can put themselves and those around them at risk. While these actions can be positive, like starting a new job or eating a tasty meal, others can be dangerous and lead to unfavorable consequences.

Below are examples of dopamine-seeking behaviors:

• Extreme sports
• Frequent travel
• Gambling
• Excessive drinking
• Reckless driving
• Jumping off furniture or even off rooftops

ADHD & Dopamine Deficiency Treatment Options

Several medications can help increase dopamine for people with ADHD. For example, stimulants increase the amount of certain neurotransmitters, including dopamine, in the brain to improve symptoms.⁶ Dopamine reuptake inhibitors, such as Wellbutrin, can also be beneficial. These medications prevent dopamine reuptake, resulting in more balanced levels in the brain. 

Every medication comes with the risk of adverse effects. Individuals should consult their doctor before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications. You can find and choose a psychiatrist by asking your doctor for a referral or using an online therapist directory. 

Types of stimulant medications that help increase levels of dopamine include:

• Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts)*
• Ritalin (methylphenidate hydrochloride)*
• Vyvanse*
• Dexedrine*
• Concerta*
• Wellbutrin**

*This medication has a black box warning, the most serious kind of warning from the FDA for a risk of medication misuse or abuse.

** This medication has a black box warning, the most serious kind of warning from the FDA for a risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people. You should talk with your doctor about these risks before starting this medication.

How to Increase Dopamine With ADHD

Determining how to boost dopamine with ADHD can be challenging, but engaging in positive activities can help. Professionals often recommend ADHD medications as a first-line treatment, but exercise, sleep hygiene, and eating nutritious food may naturally increase dopamine.

Here are seven ways to increase dopamine with ADHD:

1. Maintaining a healthy diet: Some evidence suggests that high-protein and nutrient-dense diets are natural dopamine boosters. Foods that increase dopamine can include fruits, healthy fats, and herbs.⁷
2. Exercise: Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercises, can boost dopamine levels in individuals with ADHD. 
3. Healthy sleep schedules:  Adequate sleep is associated with higher levels of dopamine. Aim to get the suggested amount of sleep (usually seven to eight hours).
4. Attend family therapy: Family therapy focuses on decreasing conflict influenced by ADHD symptoms. This form of treatment can lead to improved communication, healthier conflict resolution, and increased dopamine levels in people with ADHD.⁸
5. Listen to music: Listening to pleasurable music is another way to boost dopamine production.⁹
6. Memory training:  Studies suggest 35 minutes of daily memory training for five weeks can positively impact dopamine levels.
7. Try a dopamine detox: A dopamine detox involves stopping all activities that provide the brain with quick dopamine hits. Supporters of the dopamine detox believe that by fasting from all high-dopamine activities, such as social media or extreme supports, the brain can regulate its dopamine output and thereby provide a steadier stream of dopamine.

When to Seek Professional Support

Professional support can help when ADHD and low dopamine cause problems in daily functioning. Cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) for ADHD is the most effective type of psychotherapy for reducing negative ADHD symptoms.¹⁰

An online therapist directory is a great way to find a neurodiverse-affirming therapist. Working with a specialist is important because they understand the nuances of ADHD and focus on highlighting the strengths and needs of each client. Both in-person support and online therapy platforms can help you find healthy ways to boost dopamine production.