Although attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is one of the most common childhood disorders, it often continues into adolescence and adulthood, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Many doctors and research studies provide useful information about the disorder, but some people still have concerns about this disorder and how it affects the lives of those afflicted with it.
Safety
Children with ADHD are more likely to have major injuries and hospitalizations than children without ADHD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC also reports that young people with ADHD have a greater risk of car accidents, drinking and driving episodes and traffic violations. Although the exact cause of these increased safety risks is unclear, the ADHD symptoms of inattention and impulsivity likely play a role.
Cost
Dealing with a family member with ADHD can put a financial strain on many families, particularly those with limited or no health insurance. Adults with ADHD and parents of children with ADHD often miss work due to the disorder, which can add to the financial burden. In addition to the costs at the family level, ADHD also has significant costs for the nation. The CDC notes that the total excess cost of ADHD in the United States in 2000 was $31.6 billion dollars.
Relationships
People with ADHD often have difficulty in relationships. Peers and even loved ones may not understand the disorder, and conclude that the person's behavior is due to laziness, stupidity, irresponsibility or insensitivity. These conclusions negatively affect the relationship.
Education
Many people diagnosed with ADHD also have a learning disorder, notes the CDC. The combination of inattention and learning difficulties makes it particularly hard to succeed in academia. Even when no learning disorder is present, people with ADHD are at increased risk for lower academic performance and are at a higher risk of dropping out of school, according to Jane Framingham, Ph.D. and contributor to PsychCentral.com. This makes it more difficult for people with ADHD to find well-paying jobs or careers.
Mental Health
ADHD often occurs with other disorders, particularly oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder. People with oppositional defiant disorder have difficulty obeying authority figures and often are angry and resentful. They may blame others for their mistakes. Those with conduct disorder are overly aggressive toward others and frequently violate rules, laws and social norms. Although many people with ADHD will not develop these disorders, those that do often need extra help to lead normal, productive lives. Other mental disorders that sometimes occur with ADHD include pervasive developmental disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders and sleep disorders, explains the Brooklyn Hospital Center.
Medications
Although ADHD medications significantly reduce symptoms for many people, taking these medications is not without risk. Since pyschostimulant medications have been associated with sudden death in people with heart problems, people with a history of heart problems should avoid taking these medications. Even in healthy adults and children, unpleasant side effects may occur. Some side effects of stimulant medications include worsened behavior, increased aggressive or hostile behavior, and slow growth or weight gain in children, according to the Brooklyn Hospital Center. The Food and Drug Administration instructed the makers of ADHD medications to warn patients of potential cardiovascular and psychiatric risks.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: ADHD, Other Concerns and Conditions
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: ADHD, Data and Statistics
- Psych Central: Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD
- American Academy of Pediatrics: ADHD Basics
