Rising Awareness of ADHD and the Need for Better Support
Recent research has highlighted a significant gap in the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across different age groups, particularly among older adults. This issue has sparked calls for improved support systems to ensure that more individuals receive the recognition and assistance they need.
The study, conducted by researchers from King’s College London, University College London, and the University of Liverpool, found that despite increased awareness and diagnoses in recent years, the number of recorded ADHD cases remains far below international estimates. The findings suggest that many people, especially those over the age of 65, may be living with undiagnosed ADHD. In fact, only 0.05 per cent of adults over 65 have a recorded diagnosis, indicating that over 90 per cent of cases in this group may go unnoticed.
This lack of diagnosis is not just a historical issue but also reflects ongoing challenges in identifying and supporting neurodivergent individuals. Historically, people with ADHD—especially women—were often left to navigate life without the benefits of a formal diagnosis. However, as understanding of ADHD has grown, so too has the recognition that it can affect people of all ages.
Increasing Diagnosis Rates and Changing Perceptions
Since 2020, there has been a notable increase in new ADHD diagnoses across most age groups. This shift is attributed to greater awareness and improved assessment methods. Previously, it was believed that ADHD primarily affected children and that women were less likely to be impacted. These misconceptions have now been debunked, leading to a broader understanding of how ADHD affects individuals throughout their lives.
Dr. Gavin Stewart, the lead author of the study, emphasized that ADHD is likely underdiagnosed across the lifespan. He noted that while the condition is more commonly recognized in childhood today, many older adults may still be living without a diagnosis. This lack of recognition can significantly impact access to support, which is crucial for managing the challenges associated with ADHD.
The Impact of Undiagnosed ADHD
Undiagnosed ADHD can have profound effects on various aspects of a person’s life, including education, work, and relationships. It often coexists with other neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism, which further complicates the challenges faced by individuals who do not receive timely support.
The study used anonymized data from over 3.5 million people registered with GP practices in England in 2025 to estimate ADHD prevalence. Researchers compared these figures with published estimates from international studies involving more than 42 million patients. They found that while global rates of ADHD and autism have increased, this trend is largely due to better understanding and broader definitions of these conditions rather than an actual rise in their prevalence.
Challenges Faced by Neurodivergent Individuals
Neurodivergent individuals who do not receive a timely diagnosis often face significant difficulties in their daily lives. Dr. Angela Hind, chief executive of the Medical Research Foundation, highlighted that ADHD can profoundly affect multiple areas of a person’s life. She noted that when ADHD goes undiagnosed or unsupported, individuals may struggle for years without understanding the challenges they face.
Recent data from NHS England suggests that as many as 2,498,000 people could be living with ADHD, including those who have not yet received a formal diagnosis. At the same time, the number of patients waiting at least three months for an initial autism specialist appointment has increased significantly. Experts warn that this growing backlog represents a critical issue for middle-aged and older adults who are unable to access vital support.
The Growing Demand for ADHD Services
The proportion of people in the UK on ADHD medication has tripled in the past decade, with a 20-fold increase among young women. These figures reflect a growing recognition of ADHD as a lifelong condition. However, this increased demand places additional pressure on healthcare systems, with the NHS already overspending its budget for ADHD by £164m.
Understanding ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral condition characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. It affects around five per cent of children in the US and approximately 3.6 per cent of boys and 0.85 per cent of girls in the UK. Symptoms typically appear at an early age and can include constant fidgeting, poor concentration, excessive movement or talking, acting without thinking, and difficulty organizing tasks.
While the exact cause of ADHD is unclear, it is thought to involve genetic mutations that affect brain function and structure. Premature babies and those with epilepsy or brain damage are at higher risk. ADHD is also linked to anxiety, depression, insomnia, Tourette’s, and epilepsy.
There is no cure for ADHD, but a combination of medication and therapy is usually recommended to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
