Why Is ADHD on the Rise, and What Can You Do About It?

The diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has skyrocketed over the last few decades. Today, nearly one out of every ten youths in the United States is diagnosed with ADHD. As a school social worker, I frequently see families bringing in neuropsychological testing results in which their child has been diagnosed with ADHD. Working within the school system, I also regularly observe the impact of ADHD in classrooms.

There are three different presentations of ADHD: hyperactive/impulsive, predominantly inattentive (formerly known as Attention Deficit Disorder, or ADD), and combined presentation.

3 Types Of ADHD

ADHD predominantly inattentive presentation consists of symptoms such as struggling to focus, difficulty completing tasks, losing materials easily, frequently being late or having challenges with time management/procrastination, and struggling to stay organized.

ADHD predominantly hyperactive presentation is often what people picture when they hear the term Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Someone with ADHD hyperactive presentation typically struggles to sit still, lacks impulse control, interrupts while others are talking or frequently blurts things out, and has difficulty following directions.

ADHD combined presentation consists of both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms being shown equally in a person.

What Is Contributing To The Increase In ADHD Diagnoses?

• There is less of a stigma: The stigma surrounding mental health has improved, and seeking help or advice for mental health issues, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, has become more normalized.
• Females have historically been underdiagnosed when it comes to ADHD: Females are more likely to present with symptoms of the predominantly inattentive type, which tend to be more subtle and often go unrecognized because they may not be as disruptive as symptoms of the hyperactive presentation. As a result, many individuals with inattentive symptoms go unnoticed because their behaviors are harder to detect (i.e. being forgetful, struggling to remember directions, or not retaining information from conversations).
• Adult diagnoses: More adults are being diagnosed later in life, which has contributed to the increase in overall diagnoses. ADHD may not have been commonly recognized when they were children, but their symptoms may persist into adulthood.
• Lack of testing: The diagnosis of ADHD is not an exact science. A study conducted by Stanford University identified potential reasons for the rise in ADHD cases. First, ADHD is diagnosed through screening assessments; there is no genetic test or biological procedure that can definitively determine whether a person has ADHD. Instead, doctors base diagnoses on patient-reported symptoms and whether they meet established criteria.
• No Single Test: Because there is no single medical test for ADHD, diagnoses are typically given based on a doctor's clinical interpretation. What one doctor may classify as ADHD, another may not. Therefore, there may be more "marginal" diagnoses, which can contribute to the increase in rates.
• Early Diagnoses: Additionally, multiple studies have found that children who are younger for their grade level are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD. The difference in diagnoses between older and younger students within the same grade may be due to developmental maturity. Younger children, who may be nearly a year behind their peers, can appear less attentive or more impulsive by comparison. This maturity gap can make it more difficult for them to meet classroom expectations, leading to higher rates of diagnosis.

The Role Of Technology

It is important to clarify that technology does not cause Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; however, it can impact the severity of symptoms. Kids are easily bored, and growing up with technology means their brains become accustomed to flashy videos and constantly changing content, often every 15 seconds. Apps, games, social media, and videos are designed to provide rapid rewards through scrolling, notifications, and instant feedback. As a result, technology conditions individuals to expect immediate gratification. When students go to school and are expected to sustain attention for longer periods, this can be difficult because it differs from what they are used to.

Technology can also reduce opportunities to practice life skills, specifically in the area of executive functioning. Technology provides instant answers, easy accessibility, and constant entertainment. As a result, when situations require patience, time, and effort, kids may become impatient because they have been conditioned to expect immediate access and quick rewards.

Forming friendships and having meaningful conversations take time to develop. Rather than engaging in conversations, getting to know others, or planning playdates, some children may prefer to spend their free time on technology, which requires less effort and provides immediate stimulation.

Additionally, technology can contribute to fewer opportunities to develop problem-solving skills due to increased social isolation. Instead of learning to compromise, apologize, and work through disagreements, children can turn to technology for instant connection and stimulation, without having to navigate real-life social challenges.

Things You Can Do to Help Support ADHD

Many people are hesitant to start medication, and that is okay. There are several non-medication strategies that can be effective in supporting individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

• Reduce food dye consumption: While red and blue food dyes do not cause ADHD, they may contribute to increased hyperactivity and difficulty focusing in some children.
• Limit screen time: Reducing time spent on screens can help improve attention span and decrease overstimulation.
• Allow time for boredom: Unstructured time encourages creativity, imagination, and independent thinking.
• Establish a schedule or routine: Consistent routines can help with organization, time management, and overall predictability.
• Break tasks into smaller steps: Large tasks can feel overwhelming, so breaking them down into manageable pieces can make them more achievable.One helpful technique is to start with the end goal and work backward. For example, if a student has a research presentation:The final goal is presenting the project.
  • Step 1: Choose a research topic.
  • Step 2: Conduct general research.
  • Step 3: Select key information and organize it into the presentation.
  • Step 4: Practice or rehearse the presentation.
  • Step 5: Present the project.

  Breaking tasks into smaller steps can make the process feel less overwhelming. Setting mini-deadlines for each step can also help prevent procrastination and last-minute stress. Focusing on one step at a time makes tasks feel more manageable and increases the likelihood of success.

What are the next steps?

If you or your child are showing signs of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and want more information, start by speaking with a medical professional. They may refer you for neuropsychological testing, to a psychiatrist, or to therapy to support emotional regulation and executive functioning. They can also discuss options such as medication or potential dietary changes to help manage symptoms.

If you believe ADHD is affecting your child's school performance, reach out to their teacher to gather more information. If needed, the teacher may refer you to the school's special education team, who can evaluate your child within the school setting and determine whether additional supports are appropriate, such as accommodations, a 504 plan, or an Individualized Education Program (IEP).