ADHD in America
By Kimaya Desai
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 7 million children aged 13-17 have been diagnosed with ADHD, about 11.4% of the age group. This represents a significant increase from previous years, with a notable rise in diagnosis over the past two decades.
Children with ADHD often exhibit symptoms such as difficulty staying focused and controlling behavior, as well as hyperactivity. These symptoms can vary in severity, with about 6 in 10 children experiencing moderate or severe ADHD. Many children with ADHD also have co-occurring conditions, such as behavioral or conduct problems, learning disorders, anxiety, or depression. Nearly 78% of children with ADHD have at least one other co-occurring condition (“Facts About ADHD in Adults.”).
Children with ADHD often face significant challenges in the classroom, such as difficulty concentrating, staying seated, and following instructions (Sheldon-Dean). These behaviors can disrupt their own learning as well as that of their peers. According to the CDC, schools can implement strategies like behavioral classroom management and organizational training to help these students succeed. Additionally, accommodations such as preferential seating and flexible workspaces can create a more conducive learning environment. Teachers and parents working together can make a substantial difference in the academic performance and overall well-being of children with ADHD.
In America, ADHD affects over 8 million adults, representing about 5% of the population (Jordan). Many adults with ADHD were diagnosed later in life, and they often face challenges such as struggling to maintain employment, manage time, and sustain relationships. According to the CDC, 62% of adults with ADHD are men, and 38% are women. Despite the prevalence, less than 20% of adults with ADHD are aware they have the condition, highlighting the need for increased awareness and diagnoses.
The treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Medication, such as stimulants, is often used to manage symptoms of impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity (“Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)”). However, the use of medication varies widely across states, with estimates ranging from 38% to 81%. Behavioral therapy is another common treatment, with estimated usage differing from 39% to 62% (“Facts About ADHD in Adults.”).
Despite the availability of treatments, there are still challenges in managing ADHD. For example, 37% of Ameicans reported stopping therapy due to cost-related issues. Additionally, the societal cost of adult ADHD in the United States is estimated to be $122.8 billion per year, which includes increased unemployment, productivity loss, and additional healthcare services (Neilsen).
In conclusion, ADHD significantly affects both children and adults in the United States, with increasing diagnosis indicating greater awareness yet highlighting ongoing challenges in treatment access and cost. Effective support from parents, educators, and healthcare providers is crucial for managing ADHD in children, while enhanced awareness and diagnosis are needed for adults to mitigate the disorder’s societal and personal impacts. Improving support systems and treatment accessibility will help those affected by ADHD lead better lives.
Works Cited
“Facts About ADHD in Adults.” Centers for Disease Control, 16 Oct. 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/php/adults/index.html.
Sheldon-Dean, Hannah. “Teacher’s Guide to ADHD.” Child Mind Institute, https://childmind.org/guide/teachers-guide-to-adhd-in-the-classroom/. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.
Jordan, Michele. “Adult ADHD: Statistics and Facts.” WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adult-adhd-facts-statistics. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.
“Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)”, National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.
Neilsen, Jenna. “24 ADHD Statistics and Facts for 2024”, ADHDAdvisor.Org. https://www.adhdadvisor.org/learn/adhd-statistics-and-facts. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.
