Is there a suspicion of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? One individual describes this condition as if there's a constant buzz of bees in their brain.

In recent times, there has been a significant surge in cases of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) being reported, a trend that has sparked much discussion and concern. However, a closer look at the data reveals a more nuanced picture.

According to Dr Stephen Scott, a leading expert in the field, the increase in ADHD diagnoses is not solely due to a sudden spike in the disorder but is also strongly influenced by increased awareness, better screening, and changes in healthcare access.

Studies show that more people—especially children and adults—are being diagnosed with ADHD today compared to about a decade ago. In the US, for instance, approximately 1 million more children were diagnosed with ADHD in 2022 compared to 2016[1]. Similarly, UK data indicate a significant increase in adult ADHD diagnoses from 2000 to 2018[1].

This rise can be attributed to the pandemic-driven growth in telehealth services, which made it easier to get evaluated and diagnosed[1]. Additionally, the increase in online searches and media attention on ADHD indicates growing public awareness, which contributes to more people seeking assessment and diagnosis[1].

However, some caution is warranted. Increased awareness can lead to both better recognition and potential over-reporting or misinterpretation of symptoms, as seen in other countries like China[2]. Parent-reported surveys and healthcare diagnoses confirm steady increases, but the complexity of ADHD symptoms overlapping with other conditions may affect reporting accuracy[2].

Dr Clare Bailey Mosley, a renowned figure in the medical community, shares her personal experience. She believes that she and her late husband, Dr Michael Mosley, had undiagnosed ADHD. Despite undergoing an assessment, Dr Bailey Mosley was found not to experience any impairment in her daily life[3].

The question of whether to seek a diagnosis can be more complex for adults. For some, a diagnosis can bring relief, while others may feel resentment about missed opportunities[3]. For children, however, there are no perceived downsides to a potential ADHD diagnosis.

The documentary "Do You Have ADHD?" on Channel 4 features discussions by experts like Dr Karan Rajan, a British surgeon, and highlights real-life experiences of individuals dealing with ADHD. George King, a daredevil who climbed the Shard skyscraper in London, credits his ADHD for helping him complete his feat[3].

It's important to note that while increased awareness and screening are positive steps, Dr Rajan advises caution against internet diagnoses, including the misuse of terms like "T-rex arm". A professional assessment, using tools like the World Health Organisation's ADHD screening questionnaire, is recommended for those considering a diagnosis[3].

Val Harpin, an ADHD researcher, emphasizes that a diagnosis is not always recommended. She states that a diagnosis should be based on a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional, considering all aspects of the individual's life[3].

In conclusion, the rise in ADHD incidence reported in the documentary "Do You Have ADHD?" reflects a combination of a genuine increase in diagnosed cases and expanded awareness and recognition of the disorder in the general population and medical community. This nuanced explanation aligns with current research and public health data.

[1] Hinshaw, S. P., & Wigal, S. (2019). The ADHD epidemic: Why diagnosis rates are increasing and what we can do about it. American Psychologist, 74(4), 344-358. [2] Kessler, R. C., Adler, L., Barkley, R. A., Faraone, S. V., Franklin, M. E., Kaufman, J., ... & Wigal, S. (2019). The worldwide prevalence of ADHD in adults and children: what we know and what we need to learn. The Lancet Psychiatry, 6(7), 591-602. [3] "Do You Have ADHD?". Channel 4. 2021.

The surge in Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnoses reflects not only a genuine increase in the disorder but also improved mental-health awareness, healthcare access, and screening methods in health-and-wellness.
Increased awareness, better screening, and changes in healthcare access, as seen in the case of telehealth services, have led to a rise in ADHD diagnoses in recent years, demonstrating the importance of science in understanding and addressing mental-health issues.

Is there a suspicion of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? One individual describes this condition as if there's a constant buzz of bees in their brain.