Hello again! It’s Dr Melissa Harrison here. Today, I’m diving into a topic that has sparked much curiosity and concern: the phenomenal increase in ADHD diagnoses in recent times. Many of you have reached out with questions, and I’m here to shed light on this phenomenon, backed by evidence-based insights.
The Rising Tide of ADHD Diagnoses
In recent years, there’s been a significant uptick in the number of individuals diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This rise prompts a crucial question; why now? Research indicates several factors contributing to this trend, including heightened awareness of the disorder, better diagnostic tools, and a broader understanding of its symptoms beyond the classic hyperactivity. Importantly, young women and girls with ADHD were frequently overlooked because passive inattention didn’t cause enough trouble to attract diagnostic attention. To the extent this has been remedied, more diagnosis is a good thing, but it has a dark side.
The Pitfalls of Shortcut Diagnoses
One concerning trend in ADHD diagnosis is the ‘trial and error’ approach using medication as a diagnostic tool. Translated, the client is medicated for a disorder they may have, and if there’s an improvement in concentration or focus then it is decided they have ADHD. But if ADHD medications only worked on those with the disorder, there wouldn’t be a black market for the medications as a ‘study drug’ (and there is).
This method is not only inappropriate but can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary medication use. Studies show that a significant percentage of those initially prescribed ADHD medications discontinue them, suggesting that initial diagnoses were potentially inaccurate. ADHD, as a neurodevelopmental disorder, typically requires ongoing management, and a drop in medication adherence might indicate either misdiagnosis or lack of proper follow-up and support.
Another worrying development is the relative lack of history taking in diagnoses. Meeting diagnostic criteria for present symptoms today means you might have an ADHD, but that is not sufficient. The symptoms need to have been present and troublesome in childhood, as this is after all a neurodevelopmental disorder. If that history is not evident, it is a very good idea to consider other explanations for the trouble.
The Role of Social-Media (ADHD – be there or be square!)
Platforms like TikTok have become a double-edged sword in mental health awareness. While they can spread valuable information, they are also fraught with inaccuracies and oversimplifications. Many of the supposed signs and symptoms of ADHD we’ve seen pushed on social media are in fact nothing of the sort (No, people, falling in love too quickly is NOT a diagnostic criterion for ADHD!!). These platforms are also saturated in advertising for corporations and businesses that make a great deal of money from ADHD diagnoses and medication. There is an important line between awareness raising and marketing, and social media routinely crosses it – their motive is profit (clicks, comments and likes), not your wellbeing.
Self-diagnosis via social media is risky and often inaccurate, as these platforms tend to pathologise normal human variability in temperament, ability and interests, leading to confusion and anxiety among viewers. Young people especially often feel lost and in need of a ‘tribe’ to belong to, and the neurodiversity ‘tribe’ is very compelling when you feel alone. The downside is that some diagnoses become a matter of fashion more than evidence. This isn’t new, in the 1800’s the fashion was ‘Hysteria’, and any properly cultured young woman would be diagnosed with it.
Understanding Normal vs. Abnormal ADHD Symptoms
It’s vital to recognise that certain behaviours associated with ADHD, such as distractibility and impulsivity, can be normal in various stages of life. However, it becomes a concern when these behaviours are severe, persistent, and impairing. This differentiation is crucial and can only be accurately made through comprehensive clinical evaluation.
The Importance of Comprehensive ADHD Assessment
A thorough assessment for ADHD is not merely a screening tool; it involves a detailed evaluation including clinical interviews, behavioural assessments, and gathering historical information from multiple sources like family and teachers. This comprehensive approach ensures that the diagnosis is accurate, distinguishing ADHD from other conditions like anxiety disorders, trauma or learning disabilities, all of which can exhibit similar symptoms. After all, the wrong diagnosis inevitably results in the wrong treatment, which can be ineffective or worse, downright harmful.
Why Comprehensive Assessment Matters
The implications of a precise diagnosis are profound. Tailored treatment plans, which may include medication, behavioural therapies, and educational support, hinge on understanding the specific manifestations of ADHD in each individual. This not only enhances the effectiveness of interventions but also supports long-term outcomes in academic, occupational, and social domains.
In conclusion, while the rise in ADHD diagnoses can partly be attributed to increasing awareness and diagnostic practices, it also underscores the need for careful, comprehensive assessments. I emphasise the importance of avoiding shortcuts in diagnosing and treating ADHD. Remember, a well-informed approach leads to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life.
Thank you for tuning into this discussion. Your engagement and eagerness to learn more about such crucial topics drive our commitment to providing you with accurate and helpful information. Stay curious, and as always, take care of your mental health.
