There were hundreds of empty bottles and cans lining the DIY shelves of my kitchen wall back in 2018 – a record of my explorations in craft beer. At the time I would drink a single bottle or can almost every evening as I explored the countless different brews in numerous styles from a plethora of breweries the world over. It was a great hobby, and I loved learning about breweries, how different beer styles were brewed and exploring the flavour profiles of every single one.
For whatever reason that particular hobby fell away eventually and I only drank socially. In 2024 I rarely drank at all, only occasionally going out to the pub with friends and almost never drinking at home.
Alcohol was never a problem. I was never dependent. So why stop?
Now into my fifth year of learning about ADHD, and almost three years since I was diagnosed, the effect of alcohol on symptoms has popped up numerous times as I’ve developed my understanding of the condition. It’s this understanding that has led me to give up alcohol and almost entirely remove caffeine.
People with ADHD are much more likely to have substance abuse issues. I can understand why – being drunk feels great compared to being an unmedicated ADHDer. Drinking is wonderful for silencing that mad, always-on, noisy brain that we have. It can help us feel more relaxed when we are near permanently in fight or flight mode. In short, it’s easy and accessible.
Before I began taking methylphenidate to help with some of my ADHD symptoms I did find that once I had a single drink I didn’t want to stop. It was such a good feeling to shut that brain up and relax a bit. I felt more able to be myself.
Armed with extra knowledge about ADHD, that felt dangerous.
Given that the medication would be adversely impacted by alcohol and caffeine I made the decision to cut both out, rather than having days off just so I could have the odd pint. Spending 37 years as an undiagnosed ADHDer was incredibly hard work at times with some pretty extreme lows. Finally having the answer, strategies to cope, and medication to help with everyday life was a phenomenal opportunity – I wasn’t going to squander that.
Exactly one year ago I was nursing an epic hangover. It was, and will continue to be, the last time I ever have a hangover. Sobrierity, ADHD medication and numerous coping strategies for the everyday challenges of my neurodivergent brain have vastly improved my wellbeing. I’m looking after myself so much better, being a more loving and attentive father to my children, regulating my emotions so I’m no longer easy to anger and constantly on edge, progressing in my career (including a promotion!), managing my finances impeccably well and pursuing dreams that I’d previously given up on.
While being sober isn’t for everyone, if you have ADHD, or think you might, I’d definitely recommend at least taking a break from alcohol and see how you feel.
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