Atlanta, Georgia – A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sheds light on the rising number of children diagnosed with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the United States. According to the report, approximately 1 in 9 children between the ages of 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD, making it a growing public health concern. The data for the report was collected during the pandemic, revealing that 7.1 million kids and adolescents in 2022 had received an ADHD diagnosis, a million more compared to 2016.
The study’s lead author, statistician Melissa Danielson, explains that the increase in diagnoses may be attributed to heightened stress, depression, and anxiety experienced by children during the pandemic. She suggests that some children might have been initially assessed for anxiety or depression, leading to the identification of ADHD. Additionally, the report highlights a shift in the way ADHD is manifested in children, with girls being more commonly diagnosed compared to boys in recent years.
Historically, ADHD was often associated with hyperactivity in boys, while girls tended to exhibit more inattentive symptoms. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology, utilized data from the National Survey of Children’s Health to analyze trends in ADHD diagnoses. Despite the increase, only about half of children diagnosed with ADHD were receiving medication for treatment, a decrease from previous years.
Dr. Max Wiznitzer, a professor of pediatric neurology at Case Western Reserve University, stresses the importance of medication in managing ADHD symptoms. He emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to treatment, combining medication with therapy to teach behavioral and educational strategies to children and their parents. The report also reveals that a significant portion of children diagnosed with ADHD have other co-occurring disorders, such as behavioral problems, anxiety, and developmental delays.
Children with ADHD are at an increased risk for developing other conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse if left untreated. The lack of treatment can also lead to more serious health concerns in adulthood, including diabetes and heart disease. Therefore, increased awareness and early diagnosis are crucial in addressing the long-term impacts of ADHD on individuals.
Parents seeking resources for ADHD treatment and services can turn to organizations like CHADD – Children And Adults with ADHD, which provide valuable information and support. Dr. Wiznitzer advises parents to begin the treatment process by consulting with their pediatrician. Ultimately, a multidisciplinary approach to ADHD management is essential in ensuring the well-being of children and adolescents affected by the disorder.