Young Adults May Need Help with Learning Disabilities to Recover from Early Onset Alcoholism

New studies indicate a link between learning disabilities and alcoholism. Some researchers believe that chronic school failure and low self-esteem, the result of undiagnosed learning disabilities, may cause teens to start drinking as a form of "self-medication." It may be important to address both the problem of chemical dependency and learning disabilities if a young adult can remain sober and lead a productive life.

Learning disabilities are neurological disorders in the structure and function of the brain that cause children to process information differently than those without such disabilities. Children may have normal or above average IQs, but their learning disabilities cause academic failure. Often these disabilities make it hard for them to pick up social cues and form friendships. The combination of trying hard and failing at school plus not being able to make friends puts them at risk for substance abuse.

Some studies have shown that between 30% and 40% of alcoholics have undiagnosed learning disabilities.

NorthStar Center in Bend, Oregon, is an example of addiction treatment that addresses the needs of the whole person, not just his or her substance abuse. NorthStar is a year-long program for adolescents ages 17.6 to 24 years who have recently completed a primary care treatment program for substance abuse. NorthStar students continue in individual counseling and group therapy as well as 12-Step classes. They learn how to handle situations that may trigger relapses by developing emotional regulation skills and mindfulness.

However, NorthStar students also benefit from intense classroom work designed to foster academic success. Tutors expert in learning disabilities help NorthStar students master their subjects. The number of students per class is purposely small so students receive individual attention, overcome their challenges and maximize their strengths.

The staff at NorthStar recognizes that every student has his or her own best way of learning. Some learn through hands-on experience, others by reading, others by listening, and still others by a combination of several styles. Our Executive Director said, "If our students are not 'getting it,' we need to suspend judgment and ask ourselves if we really understand this student's learning process and where they are developmentally."

If a drug and alcohol addiction treatment program addresses both the adolescent's chemical dependency issues as well as his or her learning disabilities, the person is more likely to go on to lead a successful, productive life. For example, by coming to grips with their emotional issues, chemical dependency and learning disabilities, NorthStar graduates earn their high school diplomas and go on to enter college.