NORFOLK, Va. — New data is shedding light on the good and bad that come with an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis.
Chances are, you know someone with ADHD because it’s one of the most common medical conditions in children. New research from a group of leading psychiatrists reveals that 3.1% of the world population has the disorder.
However, until recently, ADHD has been misunderstood by many people. Often, it was passed off as something a child, or even a parent, could control because many of the symptoms – inattentiveness, lack of motivation, fidgety behavior – are things we all experience at some point.
“If you look at it as any other medical condition that’s interfering, you take away all the stigma,” said Dr. Cesar De Paz, chief psychiatrist for online psychiatry practice Talkiatry.
13News Now talked to De Paz about some of the unfortunate findings of the new research into ADHD. Adults with ADHD are 60% more likely to get fired from a job and 300% more likely to quit a job impulsively.
The number of people taking stimulant drugs like Adderall has also seen a significant jump, by more than 45%, from 2012 to 2021.
“Any time a child is prescribed a prescription medication, it should be concerning,” said De Paz. “But on the other hand, you have to think about the risk of not using medications.”
There are positive developments too, however.
According to the research, proper therapy, guidance, and medication early in a child’s life can reduce joblessness in adults with ADHD by 10%.
The disorder is also being stripped of its stigma, which is making it easier for families to seek help.
“The younger generation doesn’t mind talking about ADHD,” said De Paz. “The younger generation is proud that they’re getting treatment and diagnosed.”