The New York Times Wrote About Problems with ADHD Diagnosis and Didn't Mention Women

Here are my comments and a summary

They are indeed figuring out adult adhd, but I felt let down by the article and the comments. Here, I sum up the articles key points and let you know my comments.

Key Points:

1. Diagnostic Challenges:

   • There are no established U.S. clinical guidelines for diagnosing and treating ADHD beyond childhood, causing inconsistency in practice among healthcare providers.

   • Diagnosing ADHD in adults often relies on the DSM-5 criteria, which requires significant symptoms to have been present in at least two settings before age 12—a requirement that can complicate diagnosis in adults who do not remember their childhood symptoms or had mild symptoms that have become problematic later in life.

2. Symptoms and Criteria:

   • The DSM-5 lists specific symptoms divided into two categories: inattention and impulsivity-hyperactivity.

   • Emotional dysregulation and executive functioning deficits, common in adults with ADHD, are not formally included in the DSM-5 but are recognized by specialists as significant.

3. Developing Guidelines:

   • Dr. David W. Goodman and other specialists are working to develop the first U.S. guidelines for diagnosing and treating adults with ADHD. These guidelines aim to standardize the diagnostic process and include newer research findings.

4. Misdiagnosis and Overdiagnosis:

   • The lack of clear guidelines may lead to both underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis of ADHD in adults, with some adults receiving treatment and medication that may not be necessary.

5. Digital Technology and ADHD:

   • Studies suggest a correlation between heavy use of digital technology and ADHD symptoms, though it is unclear whether technology use exacerbates ADHD or if individuals with ADHD are more drawn to digital technology.

6. Coexisting Conditions:

   • ADHD in adults often coexists with other conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, making it challenging to diagnose and treat accurately.

Here are my comments yet to be published:

🔍 These comments highlight the ongoing discrimination and misunderstanding surrounding ADHD, now recognized as a neurodevelopmental “disorder” along with autism. Many of us refer to it as a neurotype.

💊 Children and adults with ADHD often need medication to meet societal expectations and function. They face significant trauma in their lives and are labeled as lazy or defective when their brain is just different.

🚨 They also experience high rates of emotional abuse, bullying, suicide, interpersonal violence, and substance abuse.

👩‍🔬 The unique manifestation of ADHD in women, influenced by hormonal changes during stages like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, is often overlooked.

🧩 Additionally, the overlap of ADHD with autism and transgender identity complicates diagnosis and treatment.

😟 Sadly, I fear these crucial factors are not being sufficiently considered in developing guidelines for diagnosing and treating ADHD. This lack of inclusion perpetuates the challenges and discrimination faced by ADHD people, especially women.

🌍 It is vital for the development of these guidelines to fully embrace the diversity of ADHD presentations to ensure all individuals receive the necessary recognition and support.

👩‍⚕️ Kristen McClure LCSW 🧠 Neurodivergent Affirming ADHD therapist for women.