While ADHD is
highly manageable with an individualized, multimodal treatment approach that
can include behavioral interventions, parent and patient training, educational
support and medication, far too many individuals remain undiagnosed or
untreated, which can lead to potentially devastating consequences.
READ MORE: How children's learning and thinking differences factor into parents' support
“With proper
treatment, resources, and support, children and adults with ADHD can be very
successful in life,” says Laurie Kulikosky, CAE, Chief Executive Officer,
CHADD. “But when ADHD remains undiagnosed or untreated, the outcomes are deeply
concerning.”
The
consequences of untreated ADHD can include school failure, family stress and
disruption, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse, accidental
injuries, job failure, legal difficulties, reduced life expectancy, and more.
Early identification and treatment are vital.
A comprehensive evaluation by an experienced professional is necessary to establish a
diagnosis, rule out other causes, and determine the presence or absence of
coexisting conditions. There are several types of professionals who diagnose
ADHD, including physicians-particularly psychiatrists, pediatricians, and
neurologists, as well as psychologists, social workers, nurse practitioners,
and other licensed counselors or therapists.
A
comprehensive evaluation for ADHD should be conducted in-person and includes a
careful history; corroboration from other sources including partners, parents,
and teachers; and a thorough clinical assessment of an individual’s academic,
social, and emotional functioning and developmental level. There are existing
guidelines for the proper diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in children, and
CHADD is currently collaborating with the American Professional Society of ADHD and Related Disorders
(APSARD) to establish specific guidelines for adults.
“CHADD is
dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with ADHD and their families,”
says Kulikosky. “Building greater awareness, enhancing access to expert care,
and providing essential tools and resources for the 22 million people with ADHD
in the U.S., is paramount.”
CHADD is the leading resource on
attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), providing support, training,
education, and advocacy for the estimated 22 million children and adults in the
United States living with ADHD, their families, educators, and healthcare
professionals. As home to the National Resource Center on ADHD, funded by the
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CHADD is the most trusted
source of reliable, science-based information regarding current medical
research and ADHD management.