Adult ADHD

An overwhelming majority (92%) of adults diagnosed with ADHD who were first
treated for ADHD at age 18 or above said they wish they had been treated for
the disorder as a child, according to research by Harris Interactive
Surveys.

The researchers also found that the majority of teachers (95%) believe that
left untreated, ADHD affects school performance. Among teachers who
participated in the survey, 90% think that untreated ADHD usually leads to
disruptive behavior in the classroom and has a negative effect on social
skills.

Among parents and grandparents surveyed, 84% considered ADHD to be a serious condition. Over one-third of the parents and grandparents (34%) responded that they didn't know where to go for information when their child or
grandchild was diagnosed with ADHD.

What's the problem?

The Harris Survey also found that the lack of information and the overall
controversy surrounding ADHD/ADD may be keeping people who have the
condition from getting appropriate treatment. "Confusing media reports"
about the disorder and the stigma of medication also prevented some people
who could benefit from treatment from seeking help.

According to child psychiatrists, psychiatrists, and pediatricians, the lack
of information about AD/HD prevents many children from getting appropriate
treatment.

Over three-fourths of pediatricians surveyed (77%) felt that the lack of
information resources available to parents contributed to the child not
receiving treatment for the disorder. The estimate was even higher among
more specialized group child psychiatrists, with 87% agreeing that lack of
information was a problem.