MHM Magazine

Issue 4 | 2022 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 11 MHM The first myth is that ADHD is a childhood disorder and that symptoms dissipate with age. In fact, up to 25% of children continue to have ADHD symptoms into adulthood. Although ADHD is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect children, adolescents and adults it can also occur following brain trauma, even in adults. Another myth is that ADHD is a ‘social disorder’, a label to excuse bad behaviour. Not true. ADHD is a psychiatric disorder and its treatment improves outcomes. Teens and adults with ADHD have a common history of under-performing at school, dropping out of college and university. The social, health, and economic burden of untreated ADHD is enormous. OPTIMAL MANAGEMENT OF ADHD Much like panic disorder, treatment of ADHD informs the disorder. Optimal management of attention- deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a process to reduce functional impairment, and improve quality of life. Input from the patient, family/ caregivers and school should always be considered. This means agreeing on treatment goals, initiating treatment, individualising treatment, and continually re-assessing and re-evaluating the process to best suit the individual. Contributions by Prof David Nutt Imperial College London, The Edmond J Safra Chair in Neuropsychopharmacology ADULT ADHD & THE AMPHETAMINE MYTH ADHD REMAINS SHROUDED IN MYTH AND MISCONCEPTION