ADHD Diagnoses Surge Among U.S. Adults Amid Treatment Challenges
A new report reveals 15.5 million U.S. adults have ADHD, but many struggle to access necessary treatments.
- A recent survey by the National Center for Health Statistics estimates that 15.5 million U.S. adults have been diagnosed with ADHD.
- Despite the high number of diagnoses, only about one-third of these adults have received prescriptions for ADHD medication.
- Ongoing medication shortages, particularly of stimulants like Vyvanse, Adderall, and Ritalin, are complicating treatment for many patients.
- Experts warn that undiagnosed ADHD can often be mistaken for anxiety or depression, complicating accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Increased awareness and telehealth services have contributed to the rise in adult ADHD diagnoses, but stigma and misinformation still hinder proper treatment.