ADHD is not becoming more common despite the surge in people being diagnosed, research suggests. The review, led by King's College London, looked at 40 studies in 17 countries and found no clear evidence rates of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) had risen since 2020, despite rising diagnoses and longer waits for assessment. Some blame greater social media use and the Covid pandemic for rising numbers developing the condition - but the researchers say greater awareness and acceptance were likely to be encouraging more people to seek help. There were no signs the true rate of ADHD, known as prevalence, was on the up, they added. Lead researcher Dr Alex Martin said it was likely to be a case of under-diagnosis of the condition in the first place. "ADHD prevalence in adults and children has remained largely stable since 2020," she added. In the UK, around 3 to 4% of adults and around 5% of children and young people are thought to have ADHD. Experts believe there are similar rates in other countries but only a fraction of these have been diagnosed. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by difficulties with concentration, energy levels, impulsiveness, or by a person's ability to manage their time. The study, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, comes as a national taskforce in England is looking at what this rising demand for support means across the NHS, education and justice sectors. Figures published last week by NHS England estimated there were nearly 2.5 million people in England with ADHD, with more than 550,000 currently waiting for an assessment. Every month 20,000 more people are referred for support, a 13% rise on this time last year. NHS England has admitted patients are waiting "too long for assessment and diagnosis". Patient watchdog Healthwatch England has also campaigned on the issue, calling for better support. A report it published last week highlighted how ADHD can lead to people struggling in work and education and emphasised the importance of them getting a diagnosis to help understand and manage their condition. One woman, Alex, told the watchdog a diagnosis had helped her find ways to manage better and opened up access to medication which meant she was better able to care for her daughter. "I just couldn't cope with normal things or keep a routine. It made living exhausting." But the 32-year-old was only able to get a diagnosis after paying for private support. "I'm lucky I could afford going private, but I know many people can't," she added. Henry Shelford, of ADHD UK, said the condition had been ignored for too long. "Increasing awareness and diagnosis is the key to unlocking the talents of over 2 million people in the UK. "Doing so isn't just good for the individual, it's economically positive for the entire country." Prof Edmund Sonuga-Barke, a fellow at the Academy of Medical Sciences and an ADHD expert at King's College London who was not involved in the research, said it was clear there had been a "chronic under-diagnosis" of ADHD in the UK. He said while ADHD medications were safe, there needed to be more progress in developing a greater range of non-drug treatments and therapies to help people self-manage their conditions. It comes amid criticism too many people are being placed on drugs to treat ADHD.
Greater awareness behind ADHD surge, study suggests
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Study Indicates ADHD Diagnosis Increase Linked to Greater Awareness, Not Higher Prevalence"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Recent research led by King's College London reveals that the rise in ADHD diagnoses is not indicative of an actual increase in the prevalence of the disorder, which has remained stable since 2020. An analysis of 40 studies spanning 17 countries found that while more individuals are being diagnosed with ADHD, this surge can largely be attributed to heightened awareness and acceptance of the condition rather than an actual rise in cases. Dr. Alex Martin, the lead researcher, emphasized that the true rates of ADHD among adults and children have not changed significantly, suggesting that many cases may have previously gone undiagnosed. Current estimates indicate that around 3 to 4% of adults and about 5% of children in the UK have ADHD, but only a small percentage of these individuals have received a formal diagnosis. Factors such as increased social media engagement and the COVID-19 pandemic have been cited as influencing the perceived rise in ADHD, but the study argues that the growing willingness to seek help is a more likely explanation.
The findings come at a time when the national taskforce in England is assessing the implications of rising demand for ADHD support across various sectors, including the NHS and education. According to NHS England, nearly 2.5 million people in England are living with ADHD, with over 550,000 awaiting assessment. The number of referrals for support has increased by 13% compared to the previous year, highlighting the urgent need for improved access to diagnosis and treatment. Healthwatch England has stressed the importance of timely diagnosis for individuals with ADHD, as it can significantly impact their ability to function in work and education. Personal accounts from individuals like Alex underscore the challenges faced in obtaining a diagnosis, particularly the financial burden of private healthcare. Experts like Henry Shelford from ADHD UK advocate for increased awareness and diagnosis to unlock the potential of millions affected by the condition, while also calling for a broader range of non-drug treatment options to support self-management of ADHD symptoms.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article presents findings from a review led by King's College London regarding the rising diagnoses of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). It emphasizes that while more individuals are being diagnosed, the actual prevalence of ADHD has not increased since 2020. The study suggests that increased awareness and acceptance of ADHD may be motivating more people to seek help rather than indicating a true rise in cases.
Implications of Increased Awareness
The research highlights that greater awareness of ADHD might be the driving force behind the surge in diagnoses. As society becomes more open to discussing mental health issues, individuals who previously may not have sought help are now more willing to do so. This awareness is crucial in changing perceptions about ADHD and encouraging those affected to pursue assessments and support.
Assessment Delays and Healthcare Strain
The findings also point to the strain on healthcare systems, particularly in the UK, where a significant number of individuals are waiting for assessments. The NHS has acknowledged the delays, which could lead to frustration among those seeking help. This situation may prompt calls for more resources to be allocated to mental health services, thereby impacting healthcare policy and funding.
Public Perception and Media Influence
The article subtly navigates the societal narrative surrounding ADHD, suggesting that social media and the COVID-19 pandemic might be misattributed causes for perceived increases in ADHD cases. This narrative could influence public perception, leading to a more nuanced understanding of the condition, as opposed to viewing it merely as a result of environmental factors.
Potential for Misinterpretation
While the findings are rooted in research, there is potential for misinterpretation. The way the article presents the information could lead some readers to downplay the seriousness of ADHD or the challenges faced by those waiting for diagnosis and treatment. This highlights the importance of context and clarity in discussing mental health issues.
Market and Economic Considerations
In terms of economic impact, the article does not directly address financial markets, but the strain on healthcare resources could have broader implications for public health funding. Companies involved in mental health services may see fluctuations in demand based on the public's awareness and acceptance of ADHD.
Target Audience
The article seems aimed at a general audience, particularly those interested in mental health topics. It addresses concerns relevant to families, educators, and healthcare professionals, potentially rallying support for better ADHD resources and understanding.
The overall reliability of the article rests on the research it cites, which is based on a review of multiple studies across various countries. However, attention should be paid to how the information is framed and the potential for public misinterpretation. The nuances of ADHD and the healthcare system surrounding it can often be overshadowed by sensationalized narratives in media.