MHM Magazine

Issue 4 | 2023 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 7 MHM INTRODUCTION Adult ADHD, which is diagnosed in early adulthood or childhood, is a neurodevelopmental disorder which affects a person’s attentiveness, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Although the prevalence of ADHD decreases with age, sometimes these symptoms persist into adulthood and lead to functional impairment. A global estimate places the prevalence of adult ADHD at 6,67%. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, it’s estimated that 5,4% of men are diagnosed with ADHD compared to that of 3,2% of women. It’s worth noting that the presentation across genders differs, with men tending towards hyperactivity and impulsivity, and women tending towards inattentiveness. Women with ADHD are less likely to be diagnosed and treated, which leads to poor long- term social, educational, and health outcomes. Although ADHD is easily diagnosed in children, adult ADHD presents a challenge to clinicians, largely due to the overlap of symptoms with those of mood and anxiety disorders. For this reason, many adults aren’t even aware they have ADHD, only that they struggle with everyday tasks. Comorbid conditions such as learning disabilities and other psychiatric disorders can also complicate the diagnostic picture. COMPLICATIONS ADHD has been linked to a multitude of complications, including, but not limited to: • Decreased rates of academic completion • Poor employment records and unemployment • Financial issues • Substance misuse • Difficulties with the law • Frequent accidents, including car accidents • Unstable relationships • Poor mental health in general • Poor self-image • Suicide attempts ADHD AND VIOLENCE Males with childhood ADHD and conduct problems that persist into adulthood are more likely to be verbally aggressive and even violent with romantic partners. Evidence points to a positive association between adult ADHD and interpersonal and domestic violence. Some researchers argue that hyperactivity in ADHD – which is more commonly seen in men – is an indicator for aggression and violence, as it stems from a deficit in emotional regulation. While we know that within the general population, substance dependence is independently associated with more severe and repetitive forms of violence, we also know that those with ADHD commonly abuse Dr Lerato Dikobe-Kalane Psychiatrist ADHD IN RELATIONSHIPS