Breaking the Silence: Recognizing Adult ADHD

In recent years, awareness of children with ADHD has grown significantly. These children are easily diagnosed and receive medication when necessary, while parents receive guidance on how to support their children with ADHD, nurturing them and steering them towards success.

However, as people age, ADHD issues tend to fade from public focus. Adults with ADHD don't receive workplace accommodations or appropriate treatment. Often, adults conceal their condition, despite the fact that this struggle should be recognized and legitimized.

Many of us may assume that few adults experience ADHD. Yet, research shows that 2-5% of adults are affected, and a comprehensive study published in JAMA Psychiatry estimates the number to be even higher, about 8.2% of the population, as many adult cases go undiagnosed.

Researchers developed a list of questions to aid in diagnosing ADHD in adults, based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or DSM, the most comprehensive guide on psychiatric disorders.

Alongside the main study, a response study was published, discussing that some questions in the questionnaire relate to autonomy and procrastination, which might not fully fit an ADHD diagnosis. Despite this, the questionnaire is more effective than current standard methods. The response study suggests treating the questionnaire as an assessment rather than a formal diagnosis and emphasizes consulting a doctor for any suspected ADHD symptoms.

Here are the questions featured in the questionnaire:

• Do you find yourself struggling to concentrate on things people say to you, even when they address you directly?
• In situations where you're supposed to stay seated, how often do you get up from your chair?
• How difficult is it for you to relax when you have free time to yourself?
• How often, during a conversation, do you finish sentences for other people?
• Do you put off completing tasks until the last minute?
• Do you rely on others to handle small or bothersome tasks because it's hard for you to deal with them?