Why We See an Increase in ADHD Diagnoses Today
A growing number of people, both children and adults, are being diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in recent years. This trend is evident across all age groups, with children and adults alike increasingly seeking diagnosis and treatment. So, why exactly are we seeing this rise in ADHD diagnoses today? Several factors contribute, ranging from greater awareness of ADHD to the lasting effects of societal shifts.
01. Increased Awareness and Recognition
A major reason for the rise in ADHD diagnoses is greater awareness of neurodiversity. Historically, ADHD was seen primarily as a hyperactivity issue in boys. However, evolving research has revealed that ADHD manifests differently in individuals, particularly in girls, who tend to exhibit more inattentive symptoms that were often missed (see YouTube link below) This shift in understanding has led to more balanced diagnoses across genders.
Moreover, increased media coverage and social media discussions have prompted many, especially adults, to recognize their own potential ADHD symptoms, leading to more people seeking evaluations and diagnoses.
02. Societal Changes and Lifestyle Shifts
The rise in individuals seeking ADHD diagnoses is partly due to our fast-paced, digital world. Increasing reliance on technology and instant gratification has made it more difficult for people to focus and sustain attention. As Braun Tueller from the Huntsman Mental Health Institute notes, the erosion of patience for long-term tasks is a societal trend contributing to attention issues. This environment, filled with constant distractions and multitasking, may drive more individuals to seek ADHD diagnoses and treatment. However, your struggle to focus and pay attention may not be ADHD. Please consult with your family physician or pediatrician who can help you navigate any questions or concerns.
03. COVID-19’s Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted mental health, including ADHD diagnoses. Disruptions to routines, such as school and office closures, revealed previously masked ADHD symptoms. Without structured environments, children and adults struggled to manage their focus and attention.
Increased stress, anxiety, and depression during the pandemic led to more mental health assessments, with some individuals being diagnosed with ADHD after initial evaluations for other conditions. Additionally, “long COVID” has been linked to cognitive dysfunction, complicating focus and concentration issues for adults. Again please consult with your family doctor with any concerns regarding brain fog, memory, focus, and attention.
04. Evolving Diagnostic Criteria and Practices
The broadening of diagnostic criteria has also contributed to the rise in ADHD diagnoses. Clinicians now better recognize how ADHD presents across different ages and genders, including symptoms like inattentiveness and disorganization, which were previously overlooked in women and adults. Healthcare providers take a holistic approach to diagnosis, examining a person’s history, academic performance, and behavior over time. It is important to note that an accurate diagnosis may take time. Yet this stepped approach is clinically recommended for your long term benefit and to support allied professionals (Dietitians, Counsellors, Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists) with individualized treatment plans.
05. Comorbidities and the Growing Complexity of ADHD
ADHD rarely exists in isolation. Many individuals with ADHD also have comorbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities. A recent CDC report highlighted that nearly 78% of children diagnosed with ADHD have at least one other co-occurring condition. As awareness of these comorbidities grows, more children and adults are evaluated for multiple conditions, often leading to an ADHD diagnosis in the process.
To learn more please see links below:
https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/2024/06/why-adult-adhd-rise
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9406225/
https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/data/index.html#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20national%202022,children%20with%20ADHD%20had%20anxiety.