1 in 4 American adults suspect they have undiagnosed ADHD, new data shows

In recent years, we’ve heard a lot about “neurodivergence” on social media, including genetic disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). A growing awareness of differences in learning abilities means that more people can understand, manage, and seek treatment for different conditions. But, as an increasing number of people view and relate to content online, it seems to have led to more self-censorship.

That’s especially true for adults who self-diagnose with ADHD after viewing relevant content online. According to a new national study conducted by the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine, approximately 25% of adults suspect they have ADHD; 13% of those adults are convinced enough that they have a problem that they end up talking to a doctor about their concerns.

The actual number they have the disease is much lower, estimated at 4.4% of adults between the ages of 18 and 44, according to Ohio State psychologist Justin Barterian, who spoke about the rise in self-diagnosis in a press release about the new study. Barterian explained that self-examination can often lead to more problems. “Anxiety, depression, and ADHD—all of these things can look very similar, but the wrong treatment can make things worse instead of helping that person feel better and improve their functioning,” Barterian said.

However, the psychologist says there is a downside to increasing awareness, especially when it comes to adults who were never diagnosed as children but still experience ADHD symptoms. “There is more awareness of how it can continue to affect people into adulthood, and more people are realizing, when their children are diagnosed, that they share these symptoms, as it is a genetic disease,” said Barterian. .

While more awareness of ADHD and other brain disorders may mean that those with the condition have more compassion or that those who don’t have it will have more compassion for those who do, over-medication is a serious problem. Many telehealth sites offer stimulants and other drugs after a simple online questionnaire, leading to concerns that Adderall and other drugs are too easy to access for those without the disease. Nathalie Savell, a therapist based in Maryland, tells Fast company that overuse is a concern because ADHD medications can be highly addictive. “You’re not good for the nervous system,” he explains.

Savell also stresses that there are a number of modern problems that can go hand in hand with ADHD, and if people check themselves, they may be able to avoid real problems. “If you want to better manage your emotions [being] If you are frustrated, or scattered, there is a good chance you may need to try to spend less time on your phone, making sure there is space in your schedule, that you get enough sleep, and enough time outside,” he said. Savell adds that, in a world of excitement, you have had to prioritize “a lifestyle that supports your mental well-being in a culture that encourages you not to.”

Barterian says raising awareness of ADHD is a good thing but suggests social media users don’t jump to conclusions because of a TikTok or Instagram post that feels familiar. “If you watch videos on social media and it makes you think that you may meet the needs of this disease, I would encourage you to get an evaluation from a psychiatrist or a psychiatrist or a doctor to be evaluated,” Barterian said. .