ADHD Diagnosis Trends for Adults in the U.S. and Texas

A study published on the University of Utah Health’s website highlights a significant increase in the rate of adults in America diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Over the past 20 years, the percentage of adults with ADHD has risen from 6.1 to 10.2 percent, reflecting a growing recognition of the condition in older populations.

Dr. Kyle Kennedy, a psychologist at East Texas Assessment, commented on this increasing trend, noting that the rate of diagnoses for ADHD is not only rising among children but also adults. As more adults are being diagnosed, it raises questions about the factors influencing this shift.

“It’s increasing because I think we as providers need to do a better job of not saying, okay, ‘Does inattention exist or not?’” Kennedy said. “We need to say, ‘Does inattention exist and what is driving that inattention?’”

This shift in focus is crucial because it acknowledges that ADHD can manifest differently in adults than it does in children. Many adults who were not diagnosed in their youth may be struggling with symptoms that have only become more apparent as they face increasing responsibilities in their personal and professional lives.

“The key is not so much you can’t be diagnosed if you’re past a certain age,” said Dr. James Davis, a pediatrician at UT Health East Texas. “But we are looking to see whether these traits were present at an early age, even if we’re only really having problems from them now.”

Dr. Davis’s comments underline the importance of early identification, as ADHD is often diagnosed in adults who might not have shown noticeable symptoms until later in life. Adults may not have been diagnosed as children, which can make it more difficult to identify the root causes of their struggles.

Dr. Kennedy emphasized the differences in how ADHD presents itself in children versus adults. He noted that adults with ADHD are more likely to “internalize those symptoms – on having difficulty staying attention, focusing on tasks – versus children who might act out more behaviorally.” This internalization can make it challenging to recognize the signs of ADHD in adults, as the behaviors are more subdued and may be attributed to other factors such as stress or anxiety.

“It is a little bit difficult to diagnose both in children and adults,” Kennedy said. His statement reflects the ongoing challenge for healthcare providers in accurately identifying ADHD across different age groups. For adults, the challenge often lies in recognizing the long-standing nature of the condition, which may have gone undiagnosed for years.

When it comes to treatment, there are several approaches available. Medications are sometimes prescribed to alleviate ADHD symptoms, helping individuals manage their focus and attention. In addition to medication, behavioral strategies, such as working on organizational skills at home, can provide relief. Cognitive therapy can also help both children and adults better understand and manage the symptoms of ADHD.

The rise in ADHD diagnoses in adults highlights the growing awareness of the disorder and its impact across the lifespan. With a deeper understanding of the condition, healthcare providers are better equipped to diagnose ADHD in adults who may have been undiagnosed earlier in life. By focusing on both the symptoms and the underlying causes, treatment options can be tailored to the unique needs of each individual, helping them lead more productive and fulfilling lives.