The rising tide of ADHD - why is it so prevalent and what can we do about it?
When I was young, I remember regularly leaving my school bag in class, only realising when I got home. I remember forgetting to do my homework (95% of the time I wasn’t making it up as an excuse). I remember struggling to focus and recall what the teacher was lecturing me on. In my mid-twenties I was diagnosed with Dyslexia, however, I am quite convinced I would have been diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity-Disorder (ADHD) if I was growing up in today’s world.
Many years have passed, and many school bags misplaced, since the days when those potential symptoms were most evident. In my work now as a psychologist, however, my interest in ADHD has grown significantly. As has the prevalence of ADHD in our world. The rates of diagnosis and public awareness have increased significantly.
As my career developed, I was intrigued by how ADHD, often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, could profoundly impact an individual’s life. This interest led me to delve deeper into its nuances, learning to understand not just the clinical aspects of ADHD but its personal and social implications as well.
In my professional career, I have had the privilege of working with numerous individuals diagnosed with ADHD. These experiences have not only broadened my understanding but have also profoundly impacted my approach to psychology. I have witnessed firsthand the struggles and triumphs of those with ADHD, both personally and professionally.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. ADHD manifests in varied and complex ways, but its core symptoms can be categorised into two domains: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
Inattention
This aspect of ADHD involves difficulties in sustaining focus, organising tasks, and following through on instructions. Individuals with this symptom may often seem forgetful in daily activities and may struggle with details or make careless mistakes in their work.
Hyperactivity-impulsivity
Hyperactivity in ADHD is characterised by excessive motor activity when it is not appropriate, or a feeling of restlessness in older children and adults. Impulsivity refers to hasty actions that occur in the moment without forethought and that can have high potential for harm. It also involves a desire for immediate rewards or inability to delay gratification.
The tide of ADHD
As you probably are aware, the rate of ADHD diagnosis is very much on the rise. Diagnosis, therapy and prescription of medication is at the highest rate that it has ever been.
The NHS has reported an increasing rise in the diagnosis of ADHD among children and young people. They have indicated that the rate of ADHD diagnosis in children aged 6-17 years increased significantly over a decade.
Research published in the British Journal of Psychiatry noted a steady increase in ADHD diagnoses and treatment in the UK. The study highlighted that the annual incidence of ADHD diagnoses among children and young people had risen consistently.
However, it’s not just children and adolescents that are receiving more diagnosis of ADHD. Adults have been diagnosed at a rate 4 time higher than just 10 years ago according to the NHS.
My experiences
As a psychologist, I have witnessed first-hand the impact and extent of ADHD. Along the way, I have also developed an understanding of how it can be managed.
So, what are some of the key things I have learned with my practice in ADHD?
ADHD is more than inattention and hyperactivity
While inattention and hyperactivity are hallmark symptoms, ADHD is a complex disorder that affects various aspects of life. Many people experience challenges in time management, emotional regulation, and maintaining personal relationships.
Individual variability:
Everyone with ADHD presents a unique set of symptoms and challenges. In my practice, I've seen how ADHD manifests differently across age groups, genders, and personal backgrounds. This variability necessitates a personalised approach to treatment and support.
Impact on self-esteem and mental health
In recent years, I have been increasingly aware of how ADHD impacts self-esteem and overall mental health. Many individuals with ADHD struggle with feelings of inadequacy and frustration. This emotional toll can lead to secondary issues like anxiety and depression .
The strengths of ADHD
It’s really important to acknowledge that ADHD is not only about challenges and deficits. Many people with ADHD have incredible creativity, energy, and an ability to think outside the box. When harnessed effectively, these traits can be incredible assets.
The role of environment
The environment plays a crucial role in how ADHD symptoms are expressed and managed. Supportive, structured, and understanding environments can really help with the challenges of ADHD. On the other hand, unsupportive or uninformed environments can make symptoms worse.
ADHD treatment
Medication
Certain stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD and include drugs like methylphenidate and amphetamines. They help increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, improving concentration and reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Non-stimulants are also often prescribed for those who don't respond well to stimulants, non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or certain antidepressants can be effective.
Therapy
Therapeutic interventions can be helpful for many people experiencing ADHD in many ways. For older children and adults, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be helpful. It focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours and developing coping strategies.
Since ADHD affects family dynamics, therapy that involves family members can be beneficial. Parent training, in particular, can help in managing children's behaviour effectively.
Education
Education and understanding can be one of the most powerful tools when it comes to equipping people with ADHD. Gaining a thorough diagnosis, like the ones we provide at MAPP Psychology, is vital to give you a road map of how ADHD manifests for you, and what you can do to manage it better.
ADHD is a complex and widely misunderstood neurodevelopmental disorder. People with ADHD can really struggle with things like attention and impulsivity control. However, they can also harness amazing strength, creativity, and ingenuity.
If you are interested in understanding if ADHD is something you experience and would like to learn more about how to manage it, then book in for a free consultation today with MAPP and we will discuss how we can support you with our ADHD assessment.
Dr Fraser Smith