RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder / Substance Use Disorder Comorbidity in Integrated Treatment

This research is exploring a new group talking therapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for adults who have both Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and problems with substance use. These two conditions often occur together and can make daily life very difficult. While it's generally agreed that treating both at once is best, there haven't been many studies on specific talking therapies that do this. This study aims to see how effective this integrated group CBT is in helping people manage their ADHD symptoms and reduce their substance use. Participants will either receive the new therapy or be on a waiting list before potentially receiving it later, allowing researchers to compare the results.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris

Enrolment target

132

Start

01 Apr 2025

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2029

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)Substance-related Disorder

What is this study about?

This study is investigating a new type of group therapy for adults who are dealing with two specific health challenges: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). ADHD affects attention and impulse control, while SUDs involve struggling with the use of substances like drugs or alcohol. It's quite common for people to experience both of these conditions at the same time, and when they do, it can make managing day-to-day life much harder.

Healthcare experts generally agree that the best way to help people with both ADHD and SUDs is to treat both conditions at the same time, rather than separately. However, there aren't many specific talking therapies that have been thoroughly tested for this combined approach. This study aims to fill that gap by testing a particular type of talking therapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), delivered in a group setting. CBT is a widely used and effective therapy that helps people understand how their thoughts and feelings affect their behaviour, and gives them tools to make positive changes.

The main goal of this research is to see if this integrated group CBT can effectively help adults with both ADHD and SUDs. Researchers will be looking at how well participants manage their emotions, as well as improvements in their ADHD symptoms and substance use. By comparing a group receiving the new therapy with a group on a waiting list, the study hopes to show whether this specific treatment can make a real difference for people facing these combined challenges.

Key takeaways

Tests a new group therapy for adults with both ADHD and substance use problems.
Uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in a group setting.
Aims to treat both conditions together for better outcomes.
Compares those getting therapy with those on a waiting list.
It's important because these two conditions often occur together and need better treatment options.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you would need to be an adult, aged 18 or older. You must also have been diagnosed with both Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and a moderate to severe Substance Use Disorder (not including tobacco use) by a doctor or psychologist. You should currently be receiving treatment for your substance use issue from a healthcare professional and be able to understand and speak French.

There are also some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you are under 18, pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a severe learning difficulty. You also couldn't take part if you are currently in a protected environment for substance use, or have been in one very recently, or if you are already participating in another group talking therapy program.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with ADHD?
Do you have a moderate to severe substance use disorder (not just tobacco)?
Are you currently receiving treatment for your substance use disorder?
Can you understand and speak French?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you would participate in a group talking therapy program based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). You would be part of either the group that receives this new therapy first, or a group that waits to receive the therapy later. The full duration of your participation, including any follow-up, is not specified but would involve attending regular group sessions and assessments. The study will look at how your emotions, ADHD symptoms, and substance use change over time. You would not receive any new medication as part of this study.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could potentially offer you the benefit of learning new ways to manage both your ADHD symptoms and your substance use through a specialised group talking therapy. However, like any study, there might be some risks, such as experiencing uncomfortable emotions during therapy sessions, or the therapy not being effective for you. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Hôpital Fernand Widal, Assistance-Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris
Verified postcode
Paris, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It's a condition that can make it hard to focus, control impulses, and stay still.

What is a Substance Use Disorder?

A Substance Use Disorder is when someone struggles with controlling their use of substances like drugs or alcohol, leading to problems in their life.

What is CBT?

CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. It's a type of talking therapy that helps you understand how your thoughts and feelings affect your actions, and teaches you new coping skills.

Will I have to stop my current treatment?

No, you should continue your current treatment for substance use. This study is about adding a specific group therapy.

Who is running this study?

The study is being conducted by researchers to test the effectiveness of an integrated group therapy for people with both ADHD and substance use disorders.

How to find out more

Norman Therribout, PhD

norman.therribout@aphp.fr +33140054464 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.