ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions rise globally

Global trends indicate a significant rise in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnoses and related prescriptions across various age groups. A review published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology highlights increased recognition of the condition, particularly in adults and women, who were historically underdiagnosed. In the United Kingdom, for instance, diagnoses and prescriptions rose steadily between 2000 and 2018, with adult prescriptions recently surpassing those for children.

In Germany, data from DAK-Gesundheit shows a 16 percent increase in new ADHD diagnoses among children and adolescents in 2024, totaling approximately 202,000 cases. This growth was most pronounced among primary school students. Experts note that boys are diagnosed roughly twice as often as girls, though the rate of increase among girls is higher.

Medical professionals emphasize that ADHD is a neurobiological condition rather than a behavioral issue. Early detection is critical to preventing secondary complications such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Experts warn that untreated ADHD is closely linked to addiction, noting that one in four individuals with alcoholism may have undiagnosed ADHD, often using substances as a form of unmanaged self-medication.