A recent study indicates that “an estimated 4.4 percent of Americans age 18 through 44 struggle with symptoms.
That compares with 3 to 5 percent of children with the behavior and attention problems that are hallmarks of the disorder.”
In addition, the report states that “between 2000 and 2005, the percentage of Americans age 20 to 44 using drugs to treat ADHD symptoms increased 139 percent.” That's a whopping 82 percent greater than the increase in young patients.
The largest increase in ADHD medications was among adult women, even though – traditionally – many more boys than girls are diagnosed and treated for the disorder. The report states that prescriptions were up 164% for women during the period of 2000-2005.
Many doctors note that adults often recognize themselves in the diagnoses of their children. They may possess similar “disorganized” behaviors and the assumption that they too have ADHD is made.
Many in the medical community believe that the diagnosis is becoming all too popular among adults and that the dispensing of ADHD drugs is too quick. Some doctors believe that it’s becoming “in vogue” to have ADHD and worry that adults are taking drugs that aren’t necessary, especially since a certain amount of risk has been association with the consumption of some ADHD medications.
Counselors who advocate staying off the drugs suggest other ways for disorganized adults who may have ADHD to put their lives in order. Hiring a professional organizer is one way. Keeping detailed calendars and establishing a filing system are others.
