Why are are so many adults now being diagnosed with ADHD?

In recent years, particularly since 2020, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of adults diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a condition once primarily associated with children. Many adults are now discovering that their long-standing difficulties with focus, organization, and impulse control may be rooted in undiagnosed ADHD. But what is driving the surge in diagnoses? Is it greater awareness and a reduction in stigma, or does technology also play a role—and if so, to what extent? 

Click through to find out more about ADHD and the rise in adult diagnoses. 

How many adults have ADHD?

According to recent research, approximately 6.8% of adults worldwide have ADHD, up from 4.4% in 2003. This equates to about 366 million adults—roughly the population of the United States.

Types of ADHD: Inattentive

Inattentive ADHD is characterized by not paying attention to detail, being unable to follow or understand instructions, being distracted, failing to pay attention and keep on track, and avoiding tasks that involve effort.

Types of ADHD: Hyperactive-impulsive

Symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD include fidgeting, excessive talking, interrupting others, speaking out of turn, and frequently getting up while seated.

Types of ADHD: Combined

People with combined-type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types. This is the most common form of ADHD.

Day-to-day activities with ADHD

For children with ADHD, everyday tasks like going to bed, getting ready for school on time, and staying organized can be challenging.

Adults with ADHD may find they have problems with organization and time management, focusing and completing tasks, and coping with stress.

What causes ADHD?

The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, but the condition tends to run in families. Other potential factors include premature birth, low birth weight, and exposure to smoking, alcohol, or drug use during pregnancy.

Limiting phone use

According to a large population study by BMC Public Health, to prevent attentional deficits related to technology use, smartphone use should be limited to 60 minutes per day.

Allowing the brain to reset

Experts think the link between technology use and attention problems could be due to the fact that people who constantly use technology have fewer opportunities to allow their brain to rest.

Technology may exacerbate existing ADHD symptoms

Excessive technology use may worsen pre-existing ADHD or cause a non-ADHD brain to feel scattered.

Diagnosis

People do not need to be diagnosed by age 12; symptoms just need to be present by that age. In some cases, symptoms may be identified retrospectively by reviewing teacher notes or interviewing family members, with the support of a trained psychiatrist.

Women and ADHD

Adult women are one of the most frequently undiagnosed groups of ADHD. They are often given anti-depressants and anxiety medication, when really their symptoms are related to having ADHD. 

COVID-19

Having structure can be a coping mechanism for those who have undiagnosed ADHD. A change in the working environment for some professionals and students during the COVID-19 pandemic may have made it difficult to stay focused and adhere to work-life boundaries.

Reduced stigma

The stigma surrounding mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders has decreased, encouraging more individuals to seek help and receive a diagnosis.

Misdiagnosis

An incorrect ADHD diagnosis may result in ineffective medications and treatment, which can make it harder to manage work, school, or life challenges.

Celebrities with ADHD

According to some, since the 18th century, people have actively sought diagnoses that offer social prestige. And as more celebrities are opening up about their ADHD diagnoses, this trend may be influencing others to seek similar diagnoses.

Money

In recent years, there has been a rise in specialized telehealth clinics offering quick ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions for a high price. Some of these clinics may be motivated by substantial salaries to deliver ADHD diagnoses.