Just 10% Of Kids With ADHD Outgrow It: Study

In most children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the effects of this disorder become less obvious as they step into adulthood. A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry states that in only 10 percent of children, its effects wax and wane over time, in other words, the symptoms of this disorder can manifest in different ways in adulthood.

Research by the University of Washington School of Medicine published in the American Journal of Psychiatry states that only 10 percent of children suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) present its symptoms even in their adulthood. Significantly, several decades of research have identified ADHD as a neurobiological disorder, the first symptoms of which usually first appear during childhood. These previous studies believe that in about 50 percent of cases, the symptoms of ADHD persist even in adulthood.

“It's important for people diagnosed with ADHD to understand that it's normal to have times in your life where things may be more unmanageable and other times when things feel more under control,” said lead researcher Margaret Sibley, associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the University of Washington School of Medicine and a researcher at Seattle Children’s Research Institute.

According to the researchers, if ADHD sufferers were divided into two groups, the first group had inattentive symptoms like disorder, forgetfulness and trouble staying on task and hyperactive or impulsive symptoms and the second group had a lot of energy such as running around and climbing on things.

Whereas in adults, the effects of ADHD are more commonly manifested in the form of verbal impulsivity, difficulty in making decisions and not thinking before acting. According to researchers, this disorder affects sufferers in different ways.

The researchers point out that some people with ADHD also report a unique ability to hyper-focus. Olympic athletes Michael Phelps and Simone Biles have also openly confirmed their ADHD disorder.

Researchers believe that this disorder affects about 5 to 10 percent of the population.

For this study, a team of researchers observed and studied 558 children of age group 8-25 years, with ADHD, for 16 years. The research involved eight assessments of the group, in which subjects were observed every two years to determine whether the subjects still had symptoms of ADHD, as well as information, was acquired from their family members and teachers, regarding the same.

Although the triggers of ADHD were not studied in this research. But, Sibley believes that it can be due to stress, a negative environment, lack of proper sleep, unhealthy eating and lifestyle habits. In this research, the researchers found that most people do not fall within the criteria of ADHD when they are adults. At the same time, those who have some symptoms of ADHD are also able to manage on their own. Sibley explains that the symptoms of ADHD do not interfere with finding a job or making a living in adults with this disorder.

What is "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder" (ADHD)?

In conversation with ETV Bharat Sukhibhava, Senior Psychiatrist, Dr. Veena Krishnan explains that ADHD is a brain-related disorder, which is not just limited to children, but can also be seen in adults. In children, hyperactivity can be seen in their work or behaviour as a result of this disorder. And, if the symptoms are ignored, it can have a very negative impact on the child’s mental state.

This disorder can cause a disappointing difference in both children and adults. Also, he/she may have a weak memory and they may lack concentration. Stressful environment in the family, some neurological problems, lack of nutritious diet and vision impairments are believed to be responsible for this disorder, but sometimes this problem can also be genetic.

The main symptom of ADHD in children is hyperactivity, due to which they do not like to sit in one place, are constantly disturbed or restless, try to seek attention, are careless, do not listen to what others say, have forgetfulness and are unable to do any task properly. Symptoms like yelling and beating or getting into fights with others can also be seen.

On the other hand, in adults, the symptoms of ADHD are seen in a more comprehensive way, such as lack of concentration, forgetfulness, always being depressed for no reason, becoming hyper or restless about anything very quickly, having problems adjusting in personal relationships, etc.