According to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of adults diagnosed with ADHD in the U.S. has been increasing. In 2023, approximately 15.5 million adults were reported to have ADHD, which is equivalent to around 6% of all adults in the country, or one in 16. It was also revealed that around half of these diagnoses were made in adulthood, indicating a growing awareness and understanding of ADHD beyond childhood.
The study conducted by the CDC found that adults with ADHD were more likely to be 50 years old or younger and more likely to be non-Hispanic White. Additionally, individuals earning less than the federal poverty level were more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD. This information sheds light on the demographic factors that may influence the prevalence of ADHD in adults.
Furthermore, the report highlighted that around one-third of adults with ADHD reported taking stimulant medication, but more than 71% faced challenges in obtaining their prescriptions. This indicates a potential barrier to accessing necessary treatment for individuals with ADHD. Additionally, approximately half of the diagnosed adults mentioned using telehealth services to receive treatment for ADHD, showcasing the shift towards virtual healthcare options.
However, the report also acknowledged some limitations of the study, including the reliance on self-reports of ADHD diagnoses, which may be subject to biases. The report also mentioned that data collection methods, such as online surveys, could underrepresent certain subpopulations, leading to potential biases in the findings. Despite these limitations, the report provides valuable insights into the prevalence and characteristics of ADHD among adults in the U.S.
Psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert shared his perspective on the rise in ADHD diagnoses, noting that he sees new patients with concerns about ADHD regularly. He emphasized the importance of psychological and behavioral interventions as the first line of treatment for ADHD, highlighting the potential overreliance on medication for managing the disorder. Alpert also pointed out that electronic devices and social media could be contributing to the increase in ADHD diagnoses by creating environments that promote distractibility and disorganization.
In conclusion, the CDC report sheds light on the growing prevalence of ADHD among adults in the U.S. and the challenges they face in accessing appropriate treatment. By addressing these issues and promoting alternative interventions, such as psychological and behavioral therapies, individuals with ADHD can better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.