Epidemiology – How Common is ADHD?
ADHD Prevalence and Change in Prevalence
Between 2016 and 2019, about 6 million children and adolescents (9.8% of those aged 3 to 17 years) were experiencing ADHD. ADHD prevalence is particularly high among adolescents, with 3.3 million (13% of those aged 12 to 17 years) affected during this period. This means that in a typical class of 30 students, it’s likely that at least one student has ADHD.
Over time, the prevalence of ADHD has increased, similar to mental health diseases like anxiety and depression. However, the prevalence of ADHD varies a lot by state. For instance, while the overall rate of minors ever diagnosed with ADHD is at 6.1%, Louisiana has a much higher rate at 15.8%.
Additionally, treatment rates for children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD also differ widely. In Nevada, 65% of those diagnosed receive treatment, while in Nebraska, compared the treatment rate is 94%.
Age of Onset
ADHD is usually diagnosed before the age of 12, sometimes as early as 3 years. Most diagnoses occur when children start elementary school and exhibit disruptive behavior in the classroom, with peers, or struggle with schoolwork.
Gender and ADHD Prevalence
The prevalence of ADHD varies with boys being more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls. Additionally, Black and non-Hispanic White children and adolescents are diagnosed with ADHD more frequently than those of Hispanic or Asian descent.
Comorbidity
Most children and adolescents with ADHD also experience other health and mental health conditions. Research indicates that females with ADHD are more likely to have internalizing disorders, such as depression and anxiety. In contrast, males are more prone to externalizing disorders, such as conduct disorder or oppositional defiant disorder.
Other mental health disorders often seen alongside ADHD include bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder. Health conditions more common children and adolescents with ADHD include autism spectrum disorder, tic disorder (also known as Tourette syndrome), learning disabilities, and substance use disorders.
Outcomes
ADHD is a chronic condition that affects most children and adolescents into adulthood, with about 75% continuing to experience symptoms.
It does not simply go away on its own, and if left untreated, it can cause long-term effects. Proper treatment has been shown to reduce risky behavior in adolescents with ADHD.
Risk behaviors frequently observed in adolescents with ADHD include:
- cigarette, alcohol, and substance use,
- unsafe sex, including sexual transmitted disease (STDs)
- car accidents and injuries in general
Without treatment, adolescents with ADHD are also prone to:
- Developing poor self-esteem
- Having difficult and broken relationships
- Performing poorly in school
- Developing other mental health conditions
However, with the right treatment, it is possible to reduce symptoms and learn strategies to lead a successful and happy life and be less likely to engage in risky health behaviors. While it’s not possible to predict exactly how someone’s life with ADHD will unfold, effective management can make a significant positive difference.