Adult ADHD patient experiences of impairment, service provision and clinical management in England: a qualitative study

Attitudes of South Australian psychiatrists towards attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults

OBJECTIVE

A lack of access to psychiatric services for adult ADHD is a recognised issue in South Australia and nationally. This study aims to explore the practices of local psychiatrists and their attitudes towards adult ADHD, with a view to determining any barriers influencing accessibility to treatment.

METHODS

We developed an online survey to examine the aims of the study. Free text boxes were included to obtain qualitative data. Quantitative data were tallied and presented as percentages. Qualitative data (free text responses) were analysed thematically.

RESULTS

73 out of 322 psychiatrists responded (22.7%). The greatest barrier to seeing adult ADHD was the fear of being inundated with cases (68.5%), followed by lack of experience managing ADHD (32.9%), and potential drug-seeking behaviour of patients (31.5%). Two overarching qualitative themes were identified: practical barriers and attitudinal barriers.

CONCLUSION

ADHD service provision is complex and relates to many systemic factors such as public versus private, funding, and service organisation. More psychiatrists need to become involved in treating ADHD so that the work is more widely spread. Increased training in ADHD is also needed to increase confidence in managing the condition.

Navigating the care of families with a child or children with autistic spectrum disorder

The aim of this project was to better understand nurse navigators work with children and families who are living with severe autism spectrum disorder to achieve improved health and wellbeing outcomes. Nurse navigators were introduced into the public health sector in Queensland in 2016, with 400 navigators currently working across 16 health services in diverse geographic and demographic settings. Narrative inquiry was used to explore one nurse navigator's journey working with children and families living with severe Autism. The challenges of rigid health systems to adapt to the requirements of children with special needs, particularly in relation to care in the emergency department and where interventional procedures are necessary were apparent. Nurse navigators can effectively co-ordinate the care of an extremely vulnerable patient cohort and provide essential advocacy in a health system that is rigid and lacking the flexibility to deal with individual needs.

"Dysregulated not deficit": A qualitative study on symptomatology of ADHD in young adults

OBJECTIVE

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that often persists into adulthood, although data suggest that the current diagnostic criteria may not represent how the condition presents in adults. We aimed to use qualitative methods to better understand ADHD symptomatology in young adults, especially regarding attentional and emotional dysregulation.

METHODS

Nine focus groups involving young adults (aged 18-35 years; N = 43; 84% female; 86% US and Canada) with diagnoses of ADHD were conducted. Participants were asked about their perceptions of the current diagnostic criteria and how their symptoms have presented and changed over time. Data were analyzed using an interpretive phenomenological analysis framework.

RESULTS

Most participants reported that the diagnostic criteria did not accurately capture their experiences with ADHD. They reported struggling with attention dysregulation, including hyperfocusing, and emotional dysregulation, including rejection-sensitive dysphoria. Many participants believed that their changing environments and behavioral adaptations influenced how their symptoms presented into adulthood.

CONCLUSION

Current diagnostic criteria for ADHD may not capture the range of symptoms present in young adults. More research is needed to characterize attentional and emotional dysregulation in this population.

Silver linings of ADHD: a thematic analysis of adults' positive experiences with living with ADHD

OBJECTIVES

To identify and explore positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as reported by adults with the diagnosis.

DESIGN

The current study used a qualitative survey design including the written responses to an open-ended question on positive aspects of ADHD. The participants' responses were analysed using thematic analysis.

SETTING

The participants took part in trial of a self-guided internet-delivered intervention in Norway. As part of the intervention, the participants were asked to describe positive aspects of having ADHD.

PARTICIPANTS

The study included 50 help-seeking adults with an ADHD diagnosis.

RESULTS

The participants described a variety of positive aspects related to having ADHD. The participants' experiences were conceptualised and thematically organised into four main themes: (1) the dual impact of ADHD characteristics; (2) the unconventional mind; (3) the pursuit of new experiences and (4) resilience and growth.

CONCLUSIONS

Having ADHD was experienced as both challenging and beneficial, depending on the context and one's sociocultural environment. The findings provide arguments for putting a stronger emphasis on positive aspects of ADHD, alongside the challenges, in treatment settings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04511169.

Protocol for the mixed methods, Managing young people (aged 16-25) with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in Primary care (MAP) study: mapping current practice and co-producing guidance to improve healthcare in an underserved population

INTRODUCTION

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adolescents, with an average worldwide prevalence of 5%. Up to 40% of young people continue to experience symptoms into adulthood. Young people with ADHD experience poorer outcomes than their peers across multiple domains, with treatment shown to reduce these risks. Primary care practitioners play an important role in healthcare provision for this group in the UK. However, many feel unsure about how best to provide support, reporting prescribing concerns and need for more evidence-based guidance. A lack of national data on primary care provision hinders efforts to improve access to care and optimise outcomes. This mixed-methods study aims to provide evidence that may be used to improve primary care services for young people aged 16-25 years with ADHD.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

There are three interlinked work packages: (a) a mapping study including a survey of stakeholders (healthcare professionals, people with ADHD and commissioners) will map ADHD prescribing practice, shared-care arrangements, available support and practitioner roles by geographic locations across England for different respondent groups; (b) a qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with stakeholders (10-15 healthcare professionals and 10-15 people with ADHD) will explore experiences of 'what works' and 'what is needed' in terms of service provision and synthesise findings; (c) workshops will integrate findings from (a) and (b) and work with stakeholders to use this evidence to codevelop key messages and guidance to improve care.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The protocol has been approved by Yorkshire and the Humber-Bradford Leeds Research Ethics Committee. Recruitment commenced in September 2022. Findings will be disseminated via research articles in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, public involvement events, patient groups and media releases. A summary of study findings will be shared with participants at the end of the study.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05518435.

Exploring Barriers and Facilitators to Physical Activity in Adults with ADHD: A Qualitative Investigation

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by executive dysfunction. Physical activity (PA) may improve executive dysfunction; however, specific barriers and facilitators to PA participation for adults with ADHD have not been formally documented, which was the aim of the present study. Thirty adults with ADHD completed virtual semi-structured interviews, which were analyzed thematically and guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework. Expressions of both barriers and facilitators to PA were identified. Themes such as executive dysfunction (described as forgetfulness, difficulty with sustained focus, and time management), poor self-esteem, and lack of motivation were seen as barriers to PA. Key facilitators were tied to the benefits of being physically active including improvements in executive functioning, mood, and mental health during and after activity, as well as the enjoyment of being active with others. To better support adults with ADHD in initiating physical activity, it is crucial to develop unique resources that are tailored to their specific needs. These resources should be designed to minimize barriers and maximize facilitators, while also supporting the awareness and acceptance of neurodiverse experiences.

Transition care for adolescents and young adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A descriptive summary of qualitative evidence

The review presents a summary of available evidence about transition care of ADHD patients from all service users' perspectives. Common barriers, and suggestions for improvement ADHD of transition care, were extrapolated from qualitative research, including case notes studies, and were exposed. A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Embase, PsychInfo and Web of Science databases for articles published up to October 2021 was conducted to summarize recent evidence on the experiences of all stakeholders involved in the transition process. Reviews, other chronic conditions and different meaning of transition were excluded. Authors extracted data and assessed study quality independently. Findings were discussed taking into consideration barriers and suggestions from all service users' perspectives. Findings from 23 studies with different context and methods were collected and summarized. Most of the studies were conducted in UK, using interviews and questionnaires, and addressed to the physicians. The lack of information about ADHD as a condition and about transition process were the barriers most reported, while joint working and sharing transition protocols were the suggestions pointed out by all stakeholders. Despite different perspectives, all stakeholders exposed similar needs. The review reveals an evident need for defining and evaluating the effectiveness of transition programmes from child to adult ADHD services.

Mainstreaming adult ADHD into primary care in the UK: guidance, practice, and best practice recommendations

BACKGROUND

ADHD in adults is a common and debilitating neurodevelopmental mental health condition. Yet, diagnosis, clinical management and monitoring are frequently constrained by scarce resources, low capacity in specialist services and limited awareness or training in both primary and secondary care. As a result, many people with ADHD experience serious barriers in accessing the care they need.

METHODS

Professionals across primary, secondary, and tertiary care met to discuss adult ADHD clinical care in the United Kingdom. Discussions identified constraints in service provision, and service delivery models with potential to improve healthcare access and delivery. The group aimed to provide a roadmap for improving access to ADHD treatment, identifying avenues for improving provision under current constraints, and innovating provision in the longer-term. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines were used as a benchmark in discussions.

RESULTS

The group identified three interrelated constraints. First, inconsistent interpretation of what constitutes a 'specialist' in the context of delivering ADHD care. Second, restriction of service delivery to limited capacity secondary or tertiary care services. Third, financial limitations or conflicts which reduce capacity and render transfer of care between healthcare sectors difficult. The group recommended the development of ADHD specialism within primary care, along with the transfer of routine and straightforward treatment monitoring to primary care services. Longer term, ADHD care pathways should be brought into line with those for other common mental health disorders, including treatment initiation by appropriately qualified clinicians in primary care, and referral to secondary mental health or tertiary services for more complex cases. Long-term plans in the NHS for more joined up and flexible provision, using a primary care network approach, could invest in developing shared ADHD specialist resources.

CONCLUSIONS

The relegation of adult ADHD diagnosis, treatment and monitoring to specialist tertiary and secondary services is at odds with its high prevalence and chronic course. To enable the cost-effective and at-scale access to ADHD treatment that is needed, general adult mental health and primary care must be empowered to play a key role in the delivery of quality services for adults with ADHD.

Why young people stop taking their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medication: A thematic analysis of interviews with young people

BACKGROUND

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that can persist into adulthood. Young people often stop taking ADHD medication during adolescence despite evidence that continuation would be beneficial. Increasingly, young people are restarting medication in early adulthood suggesting that cessation was premature. In this paper we explore the reasons given by young people for discontinuing ADHD medication.

METHODS

Qualitative data from the Children and Adolescents with ADHD in Transition between Children's and Adult Services (CATCh-uS) project was analysed to look for reasons for stopping medication. Semi-structured interviews with three groups of young people were analysed using thematic and framework analysis; this included young people prior to transition (n = 21); young people that had successfully transitioned to adult services (n = 22); and young people who left children's services prior to transition but re-entered adult services later (n = 21).

RESULTS

Reasons given by young people for stopping ADHD medication included the following: the perceived balance between benefits and adverse effects of medication; perceptions of ADHD as a childhood or educational disorder; life circumstance of the young person and challenges young people faced in accessing services.

CONCLUSIONS

A multidimensional approach is needed to address discontinuation of ADHD medication in order to improve the long-term prospects and quality of life for these young people. Possible approaches include access to non-pharmacological treatments and improved psychoeducation. As many reasons given by young people are not unique to ADHD, these findings are also of relevance to medication adherence in other chronic childhood conditions.

A systematic review of interventions to support adults with ADHD at work—Implications from the paucity of context-specific research for theory and practice

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is estimated to affect 3.5% of the global workforce. Despite the high prevalence rate, little is known about how best to support adults with ADHD (ADHDers) at work. Relevant research is dispersed across different disciplines such as medicine, health studies and psychology. Therefore, it is important to synthesize interventions aimed at ADHDers to examine what learning can be gleaned for effective workplace support. We conducted a systematic review of relevant interventions framed by realist evaluation and the Context-Intervention-Mechanism-Outcome classification to identify key mechanisms of effectiveness for workplace interventions. We searched 10 databases including a range of journals from medical science to business management applying predetermined inclusion criteria and quality appraisal through a risk of bias assessment for quantitative and qualitative methods. We synthesized 143 studies with realist evaluation. Most studies evaluated the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions highlighting the dominance of the medical approach to supporting ADHDers. Key mechanisms of effectiveness were identified from psychosocial interventions including group therapy, involvement of people in the ADHDers network, and the importance of the client-patient relationship. Overall, there is limited research that examines the effectiveness of workplace interventions for ADHDers. Furthermore, much of the existing research evaluates pharmacological interventions which is difficult to transfer to the workplace context. It is recommended that future research and practice consider the key mechanisms identified in this review when designing interventions as well as barriers to accessing support such as disclosure and self-awareness.

The Effect of SMS Reminders on Adherence in a Self-Guided Internet-Delivered Intervention for Adults With ADHD

Background

Self-guided Internet-delivered interventions may serve as an accessible and flexible non-pharmacological treatment supplement for adults with ADHD. However, these interventions are challenged by low adherence.

Objective

To examine whether weekly SMS reminders improve adherence to a self-guided Internet-delivered intervention for adults with ADHD.

Method

The study used a multiple randomized trial design where the participants who had not completed their weekly module within 2 days were randomized to either receive or not receive an SMS reminder. The primary outcome was adherence, defined as module completion, logins, time spent on intervention, and self-reported practice of coping strategies.

Results

A total of 109 adults with a self-reported ADHD diagnosis were included in the study. The results showed that SMS reminders were associated with an increased likelihood of login within 48 h during the second module of the intervention, but not for the remaining modules. Moreover, receiving an SMS reminder was associated spending more time on the modules and faster login time in module three and five, specifically. However, the overall results did not show an effect of SMS reminders on module completion, number of logins or practice of coping strategies.

Conclusion

The results showed that SMS reminders do not improve number of logins, module completion rates or practice of coping strategies, but they may lead to faster login time and more time spent on the modules. To utilize the potential of self-guided Internet-delivered intervention in making non-pharmacological accessible for adults with ADHD, new methods to facilitate meaningful engagement should be developed and tested.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04511169.

Adherence to long-term medical follow-up: A qualitative, experience-focused study of people with spinal cord injury

BACKGROUND

Scientific evidence indicates the presence of secondary conditions (such as pressure injuries) after spinal cord injury (SCI). Treatment methods focusing on the management of paraplegia and tetraplegia include systematic preventive follow-up. These advances have significantly improved the functional and vital prognosis of people with SCI, but some people may not have access to these specialized organizations or may not adhere closely to this medicalized vision. We used a narrative approach to explore the perceptions of people with SCI to better understand their adherence to follow-up.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine the "common denominators" that lead to adherence or non-adherence to long-term follow-up after SCI.

METHODS

People with SCI who had completed their first rehabilitation period for > 1 year were included with regard to 2 variables: 1) an actual medical follow-up or not and 2) a history of pressure injury or not. A review of the literature was used as preparation for semi-directive interviews, which were prospectively analysed by using qualitative analysis software. Thematic saturation was reached at 28 interviews, and 32 interviews were ultimately completed.

RESULT

Three main areas concerning participants' perceptions emerged: people's readiness, appropriation and modulation of the systematic follow-up. We developed a broad conceptual framework representing follow-up and the promotion of the long-term health of people with SCI from their perspectives.

CONCLUSIONS

The medical environment should ensure that people with SCI are ready to actively consider the implementation of prevention strategies and should take into account their ability to establish their own truth, to integrate various life stages after SCI and to negotiate systematic follow-up. The implementation of data about functioning should be conducted using the concept of the Learning Health System.

In transition with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): children's services clinicians' perspectives on the role of information in healthcare transitions for young people with ADHD

BACKGROUND

National clinical guidelines emphasise the need for good communication of information by clinicians to young people and their parent/carers about what to expect during transition into adult services. Recent research indicates that of young people in need of transition for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), only a minority experience continuity of care into adulthood, with additional concerns about quality of transition. This qualitative analysis explored the role that information plays in the transition from child to adult mental health services for young people with ADHD, from the perspectives of clinicians working in children's services.

METHODS

Participants were recruited from National Health Service (NHS) Trusts located across the United Kingdom (UK), with varying service configurations. Twenty-two qualitative interviews were conducted with 15 paediatricians and seven psychiatrists working in child services and supporting young people with ADHD. The Framework Method was used to complete a thematic analysis of data related to the role of information in transitional care.

RESULTS

Two themes were identified in relation to the role of information in supporting transition and promoting continuity of care. Information for clinicians; about adult mental health services, the young person and their ADHD, and exchanged between services. Sharing information with young people; about transition processes, self-management, to support service engagement, and tailored to be accessible to young people with ADHD. Clinicians in children's services reported variable access to information. Clear protocols and being able to communicate about ADHD as a long-term condition, were described as having a positive impact on the transition process.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings illustrate that clear information on the transition process, and communication of evidence based and up-to-date information on ADHD as a long-term condition are essential components for clinicians supporting transition into adult services. Information exchange can be supported through transition discussions with young people, and joint meetings between services Discussions should be accompanied by accessible resources for young people and parents/carers such as leaflets and websites. Further efforts should be focussed on enabling clinicians to provide timely and appropriate information to young people with ADHD to support transition.

The lived experiences of adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A rapid review of qualitative evidence

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that frequently persists into adulthood, although research and diagnostic criteria are focused on how the condition presents in children. We aimed to review qualitative research on lived experiences of adults with ADHD to characterize potential ADHD symptomatology in adulthood and provide perspectives on how needs might be better met. We searched three databases for qualitative studies on ADHD. Studies (n = 35) in English that included data on the lived experiences of adults with ADHD were included. These studies covered experiences of receiving a diagnosis as an adult, symptomatology of adult ADHD, skills used to adapt to these symptoms, relationships between ADHD and substance use, patients' self-perceptions, and participants' experiences interacting with society. Many of the ADHD symptoms reported in these studies had overlap with other psychiatric conditions and may contribute to misdiagnosis and delays in diagnosis. Understanding symptomatology of ADHD in adults may inform future diagnostic criteria and guide interventions to improve quality of life.

The Importance of Belonging to a Context: A Nurse-Led Lifestyle Intervention for Adult Persons with ADHD

Living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and mental illness involves an increased risk of lifestyle-related diseases. Although there are several ways to provide support to adult persons with ADHD, there is a lack of non-medical strategies for this purpose. This study explore how adult persons with ADHD with mental illness experienced taking part in a nurse-led lifestyle intervention. Fifteen participants participated in a 52-week lifestyle intervention. The analysis revealed two main categories; Building trusting relationships and Health together. This nurse-led lifestyle intervention could be an alternative or complement to current approaches to promoting health in adults with ADHD.

Failure of Healthcare Provision for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in the United Kingdom: A Consensus Statement

Background: Despite evidence-based national guidelines for ADHD in the United Kingdom (UK), ADHD is under-identified, under-diagnosed, and under-treated. Many seeking help for ADHD face prejudice, long waiting lists, and patchy or unavailable services, and are turning to service-user support groups and/or private healthcare for help. Methods: A group of UK experts representing clinical and healthcare providers from public and private healthcare, academia, ADHD patient groups, educational, and occupational specialists, met to discuss shortfalls in ADHD service provision in the UK. Discussions explored causes of under-diagnosis, examined biases operating across referral, diagnosis and treatment, together with recommendations for resolving these matters. Results: Cultural and structural barriers operate at all levels of the healthcare system, resulting in a de-prioritization of ADHD. Services for ADHD are insufficient in many regions, and problems with service provision have intensified as a result of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Research has established a range of adverse outcomes of untreated ADHD, and associated long-term personal, social, health and economic costs are high. The consensus group called for training of professionals who come into contact with people with ADHD, increased funding, commissioning and monitoring to improve service provision, and streamlined communication between health services to support better outcomes for people with ADHD. Conclusions: Evidence-based national clinical guidelines for ADHD are not being met. People with ADHD should have access to healthcare free from discrimination, and in line with their legal rights. UK Governments and clinical and regulatory bodies must act urgently on this important public health issue.

The functioning of social support in long-term prevention after spinal cord injury. A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

The impact of social support on the long-term condition after a spinal cord injury (SCI) varies across studies mainly involving self-report questionnaires.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to establish the common factors associated with social support leading individuals with an SCI to the effective prevention of secondary complications, including via adherence to medical follow-up.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria were a history of acquired SCI of any etiology, wheelchair use, and age≥18 years at the time of the study. Participants should have completed their initial rehabilitation program in France≥1 year earlier and were also enrolled according to 2 related study variables: routine medical follow-up (patients were or were not followed up) and the medically supervised reporting of a pressure ulcer after the initial rehabilitation session (0 or≥1 pressure ulcers). We performed a preparatory quantitative and qualitative literature review to identify factors affecting long-term follow-up after SCI, then adopted a narrative design with semi-structured interviews, transcribed and analyzed progressively by using qualitative analysis software.

RESULTS

We included 32 participants. We categorized our results based on the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices of participants with respect to pressure ulcer prevention and long-term medical follow-up. Our narrative approach allowed us to identify 3 main domains relevant to social support: reciprocity, self-management and timing related to social support.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed social support as a dynamic process, a reciprocal phenomenon evolving in variations over time. These findings should be central to short- and long-term therapeutic education programs for patients and for people providing social support. Effective changes should also be implemented through the concept of the Learning Health System.

The transition from children’s services to adult services for young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: the CATCh-uS mixed-methods study

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder was previously seen as a childhood developmental disorder, so adult mental health services were not set up to support attention deficit hyperactivity disorder patients who became too old for child services. To our knowledge, this is the first in-depth study of the transition of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder patients from child to adult health services in the UK.

Objectives

Our objectives were to explore how many young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are in need of services as an adult, what adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder services are available and how attention deficit hyperactivity disorder stakeholders experience transition from child to adult services.

Design

An interactive mixed-method design was adopted with three study streams: (1) a 12-month surveillance study with 9-month follow-up to find out how many young people required ongoing medication when they were too old for child services (929 surveys completed by children’s clinicians); (2) a mapping study to identify and describe services for young adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (2686 respondents to online surveys for patients and health workers and freedom of information requests to service providers and commissioners); and (3) a qualitative study to explore key stakeholders’ experiences of transition from child to adult services (144 interviews with 64 attention deficit hyperactivity disorder patients, 28 parents and 52 health clinicians; 38 working in child or adult secondary health services and 14 general practitioners). Members of the public advised at each stage of the study.

Results

When corrected for non-response and case ascertainment, the annual number of young people with an ongoing need for medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder lies between 270 and 599 per 100,000 people aged 17–19 years. Among 315 individuals eligible for transition, 64% were accepted, but only 22% attended their first adult services appointment. Our interactive map describes 294 unique services for adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder across the UK, of which 44 are ‘dedicated’ attention deficit hyperactivity disorder services. Few services provide the full range of recommended provision; most focus on diagnosis and medication. Services are unevenly distributed across the UK, with nearly all ‘dedicated’ services being in England. Exploring stakeholders’ experiences revealed how invested the stakeholders are in continuing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder treatment and how the architecture of services affects transition. An association between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, education and continuance of medication into young adulthood, plus parent involvement and feeling prepared for transition and adult life with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, influenced investment. However, even with investment, how accessible adult services are, how patient needs fit with the remit of the adult service and the level of patient information available affect transition outcomes. The results also highlight how general practitioners can end up as care co-ordinators during transition by default.

Limitations

Transition estimates were based on those who want medication, so these indicate a minimum level of need.

Conclusions

Few of those who need ongoing support for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder successfully transfer to adult services, and a small proportion of those who transfer experience optimal transitional care. Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder service provision is patchy. Even among ‘dedicated’ services, few provide the whole range of National Institute for Health and Care Excellence-recommended treatments.

Future work

We need to evaluate various models of transitional care and adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder provision, as well as develop and evaluate psychosocial interventions for young people and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN12492022.

Funding

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Services and Delivery Research programme and will be published in full in Health Services and Delivery Research; Vol. 8, No. 42. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Treatment of ADHD in adults - prevalence of discontinuation and associated factors - results from a cross-sectional analysis of Danish register data

BACKGROUND

A growing number of adults are receiving pharmacological treatment for ADHD but a sizable proportion also discontinues or have gaps in treatment. The primary aims of this study were to identify how many patients treated for ADHD in adulthood, have at least one event of discontinuation in treatment and to identify possible associated variables.

METHODS

Within the Danish population aged 18-60 years on the 1st of January 2013, we identified the number of individuals who had been prescribed ADHD-medication at least once during the 1st of January 2002-31st of December 2013 using Danish register data. Among those who filed more than one prescription, treatment discontinuation was defined as having more than 211 days between two prescriptions. In crude and adjusted logistic regression analysis, we explored potential associations to discontinuation for variables such as gender and age at treatment initiation.

RESULTS

In a population, if N = 3,165,844 individuals, n = 42,892 had received at least one prescription for ADHD medication. Among those with more than one prescription (N = 38,289), 29.4% had discontinued their treatment at least once, according to our definition of treatment discontinuation. ADHD treatment discontinuation was associated with being male, unemployment, lower educational attainment, receiving incapacity benefits and younger age at treatment initiation (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A large proportion of individuals treated for ADHD had at least one discontinuation of treatment according to our definition. Although the present study does not allow for investigating the direction of these effects, nor whether some patients later resumed treatment, having at least one discontinuation was associated with a range of variables relating to e.g. age and gender, and provides an emerging profile for clinicians of patients more likely to discontinue.

Mapping UK mental health services for adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: national survey with comparison of reporting between three stakeholder groups

BACKGROUND

UK clinical guidelines recommend treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults by suitably qualified clinical teams. However, young people with ADHD attempting the transition from children's to adults' services experience considerable difficulties in accessing care.

AIMS

To map the mental health services in the UK for adults who have ADHD and compare the reports of key stakeholders (people with ADHD and their carers, health workers, service commissioners).

METHOD

A survey about the existence and extent of service provision for adults with ADHD was distributed online and via national organisations (e.g. Royal College of Psychiatrists, the ADHD Foundation). Freedom of information requests were sent to commissioners. Descriptive analysis was used to compare reports from the different stakeholders.

RESULTS

A total of 294 unique services were identified by 2686 respondents. Of these, 44 (15%) were dedicated adult ADHD services and 99 (34%) were generic adult mental health services. Only 12 dedicated services (27%) provided the full range of treatments recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Only half of the dedicated services (55%) and a minority of other services (7%) were reported by all stakeholder groups (P < 0.001, Fisher's exact test).

CONCLUSIONS

There is geographical variation in the provision of NHS services for adults with ADHD across the UK, as well as limited availability of treatments in the available services. Differences between stakeholder reports raise questions about equitable access. With increasing numbers of young people with ADHD graduating from children's services, developing evidence-based accessible models of care for adults with ADHD remains an urgent policy and commissioning priority.

The experiences of receiving a diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder during adulthood in Japan: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Although the number of adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has increased considerably in recent years, there are few qualitative investigations of the experiences of adults with adult-diagnosed ADHD in Japan. This study aimed to explore in depth the diagnosis-related experiences and needs of such adults.

METHODS

Participants were 12 psychiatric outpatients aged 23-55 years diagnosed with ADHD during adulthood. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted to examine participants' experiences of receiving, and subsequently coping with, an ADHD diagnosis. A thematic analysis of the interview data was performed.

RESULTS

Six themes emerged: difficulties in accepting the diagnosis, interest in ADHD, feelings of relief, identity concerns, dealing with symptoms, and acceptance of ADHD. Despite initial negative reactions, participants were willing to learn about the disorder, spending time seeking ADHD-related information and sharing it with loved ones. Participants felt relieved after the diagnosis, as they realized why they had experienced long-term problems and incorrect labeling. However, participants also had identity concerns. They gradually began to accept their ADHD symptoms and deal with them better.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that, when treating individuals with adult-diagnosed ADHD, it is important to promote self-understanding and reduce negative attitudes toward ADHD; to provide appropriate, brief, evidence-based information about ADHD; and to give individuals sufficient time to think about their ADHD symptoms, how they have affected their daily lives, and how to cope with them in the future.

Treatment adherence and persistence in adult ADHD: Results from a twenty-four week controlled clinical trial with extended release methylphenidate

Purpose:

The aim of this analysis is to describe medication adherence, and treatment persistence, in adults with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treated for 24 weeks with extended release methylphenidate (MPH-ER). Additionally, patient-, disorder- and treatment-related factors associated with adherence and persistence will be identified.

Method:

Post-hoc analysis of the active treatment group of a placebo-controlled, randomised, 24 week trial with MPH-ER with univariate description and multiple logistic regression models and Hosmer and Lemeshow tests.

Results:

In the sample of 241 adults with ADHD (mean age of 35.2 ± 10.1 years), 9.4% of the patients were non-adherent, taking less than 80% of the dispensed medication. Factors associated with non-adherence included age < 25 years, education level lower than secondary education, lacking family history of ADHD, lower ADHD baseline severity and lower self- and observer-rated medication efficacy. Lacking family history of ADHD, lower education level and lower self-rated medication efficacy, predicted non-adherence with a prediction accuracy of 16%. Seventeen percent of the patients discontinued early with most discontinuing within the first five weeks of the MPH-ER titration phase. Mean persistence in the discontinuing group was 63.4 ± 49.4 days. Factors associated with discontinuation included male gender, lower education level, lacking family history of ADHD and lower self- and observer-rated medication efficacy. Treatment non-response, male gender and lower education level predicted treatment discontinuation with a prediction accuracy of 22.7%.

Conclusion:

Male adults without relatives with ADHD, with lower educational level and lower self- and observer-rated medication efficacy, who are newly treated with MPH-ER, are at increased risk of non-adherence and treatment discontinuation. Patients are at increased risk of treatment discontinuation during the medication titration phase.

The Feasibility, Effectiveness, and Process of Change of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Adults With ADHD: A Mixed-Method Pilot Study

Objective: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a promising psychosocial intervention for adult ADHD. The feasibility and effectiveness of an adapted MBCT program is explored, together with the possible process of change. Method: Mixed-method study with 31 ADHD patients participating in an adapted MBCT program. Self-report questionnaires on ADHD symptoms, executive functioning, mindfulness skills, self-compassion, patient functioning, and health status were administered before and after MBCT. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 patients. Results: A modest drop-out of n = 5 (16%) was found. MBCT resulted in a significant reduction of ADHD symptoms and improvements of executive functioning, self-compassion, and mental health. Qualitative analysis provided insight in facilitators and barriers participants experienced, and their process of change. Conclusion: The adapted MBCT program seemed to be feasible for adults with ADHD and preliminary evidence for the effectiveness is shown. An adequately powered Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) is needed to further examine the effectiveness of MBCT for ADHD.

Clinician perspectives on the use of National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines for the process of transition in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

BACKGROUND

The UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) clinical guidelines recommends the following steps in the transition from child to adult services for young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): reassessment before and after transition, transition planning, formal meeting between services, and involvement from young person and carer, completed by age 18.

METHODS

A UK surveillance study asked clinicians to report young people on their caseloads with ADHD in need of transition to adult services in 2016 to support their continued access to medication need. Clinicians reported young people as they aged to within 6 months of the transition boundary, a prospective questionnaire prior to transition asked about intended transition and the use of local transition protocols. A retrospective questionnaire sent 9 months later established which steps recommended by NICE were followed during transition. Clinicians (38) working in child or adult services were interviewed about their experiences of transition and the use of NICE guidelines during transition and were analysed using a framework approach.

RESULTS

Information was shared between services in 85% of the 315 identified transition cases. A joint meeting was planned in 16% of cases; joint working before transfer occurred in 10% of cases. Clinicians were aware of NICE guidelines; they had mixed views on whether (local) guidelines or protocols were helpful. The main reason for not following guidelines was workload and resources: "NICE recommends stuff that is miles above what we will ever be able to provide".

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians involved in the transition process of young people with ADHD judged NICE guidelines to be unrealistic given the current limited resources and service organization. More open dialogue is needed for recommendations on service models to bridge the gap between guideline recommendations and what is viewed as feasible and how implementation of guidance is funded, monitored, and prioritized. This may lead to valuable changes in the consultation process, for example, consideration of a layered (gold, standard, and minimal) system for some NICE guidelines.

Perceptions and Attitudes of Correctional Staff Toward ADHD-A Challenging Disorder in Everyday Prison Life

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is associated with risk-taking behaviors, poor self-control, and interpersonal difficulties. Affected individuals have an increased probability of involvement with the criminal justice system, contributing to a higher rate of arrest, and imprisonment compared with the general population; they are also inadequately treated once sentenced. Because prison staff play a central role in the identification of inmates with mental disorders, they could well be key to improving provision of care. There is however little knowledge of the conceptions, perceptions, and attitudes of prison staff toward ADHD. Such information could help to identify starting points for awareness training and further implementation of specific ADHD treatment. To bridge this gap, we undertook a study based on a qualitatively-driven mixed methods design, combining qualitative data collection in the form of narrative interviews with 19 prison staff from a Swiss correctional facility with quantitative data collection in the form of a survey that included the Attitudes toward Prisoners scale. The interviews were analyzed with QSR NVIVO 11 and a qualitative content analysis approach was used to evaluate findings. Prison staff were generally aware of ADHD and its symptomology, believing it to a be "real," but "fashionable" disorder and favoring hereditary-genetic or biological explanatory models for its development. They viewed inmates with ADHD rather negatively, as complicating correctional efforts, and perceived them as sticking out, as tying up more resources and as frequently being involved in confrontations. Our findings suggest that difficulties in pragmatic aspects of communication and language comprehension may be perceived "as not listening or following instructions," creating additional tensions. Consequently, inmates with ADHD are more often exposed to disciplinary sanctions, such as solitary confinement-an intervention deemed "necessary" by staff. Therefore, staff training on ADHD might need to cover evidence on adverse effects. Non-pharmacological interventions for treatment were preferred and considered to be highly efficacious. Skepticism toward pharmacological treatment prevailed, even when benefits from stimulant medication were described. Interestingly, this skepticism was not the result of negative experiences with the misuse and diversion of stimulants. Acceptance of multimodal treatment among prison staff may require customized strategies.

In transition with ADHD: the role of information, in facilitating or impeding young people's transition into adult services

BACKGROUND

Many national and regional clinical guidelines emphasise the need for good communication of information to young people and their parent/carers about what to expect during transition into adult services. Recent research indicates only a minority of young people in need of transition for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) experience continuity of care into adulthood, with additional concerns about quality of transition. This qualitative study explored the role that information plays in experiences of transition from the perspectives of parent/carers and young people.

METHODS

Participants were recruited from 10 National Health Service Trusts, located across England, with varying service configurations. Ninety two qualitative interviews were conducted: 64 with young people with ADHD at different stages relative to transition, and 28 with parent/carers. Thematic analysis of data was completed using the Framework Method.

RESULTS

Interviewees reported a range of experiences; however reliance on parent/carers to gather and translate key information, and negative experiences associated with poor communication of information, were universal. Three themes emerged: Navigating information with help from parents; Information on ADHD into adulthood; Information about the transition process. The first revealed the essential role of parent in the translation and application of information, the other two explored distinct types of information necessary for a smooth transition. Interviewees made recommendations for clinical practice similar to UK (United Kingdom) National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines, with an additional emphasis on providing nuanced information on ADHD as a potentially long term condition. It was important to interviewees that General Practitioners had a basic understanding of adult ADHD and also had access to information about service provision.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings illustrate that the availability and communication of information to young people and their parent/carers is an essential component of the transition process between child and adult ADHD services. How and when it is provided may support or impede transition. This study constitutes a substantial contribution to the evidence base, drawing on interviews from a range of participants across England and from Trusts offering different types of services.

Resumption of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder medication in early adulthood: findings from a UK primary care prescribing study

This study aimed to examine the resumption of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) prescriptions in early adulthood in young people whose ADHD prescriptions stopped in adolescence. Whilst prescribing studies indicate that the proportion of those with ADHD stopping treatment in late adolescence remains in excess of the proportion expected to be symptom free, very few studies have examined patterns of resumption amongst young adults previously prescribed medication. Primary care records from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink from 2008 to 2013 were used to examine the outcome of resumption of ADHD prescriptions from age 20 years in a sample of cases with ADHD whose prescriptions stopped aged 14-18 years. A Cox regression model was fitted to explore variables that could theoretically be associated with resumption of prescriptions. Of 1440 cases, 109 (7.6%) had their ADHD prescriptions resumed. Characteristics associated with an increased probability of resumption included female gender, learning disability, referral to adult mental health services, and prescription of antipsychotic medication. In this study, only a small proportion of adolescents who stopped ADHD medication subsequently resumed their prescriptions in primary care. Those that did resume were a more complex group. As many vulnerable individuals with ongoing ADHD symptoms may not have the resources required to surmount the barriers to re-enter services, the implication is that not all those who could benefit from resuming medication are able to do so. The findings raise questions around whether current care models are flexible enough and whether primary care services are adequately supported in managing this group.

Young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in transition from child to adult services: a qualitative study of the experiences of general practitioners in the UK

Background

Many young people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have impairing symptoms that persist into adulthood, yet only a minority experience continuity of care into adult life. Despite growing emphasis on the primary care role in ADHD management in NICE ADHD and transition guidance, little is known about GPs’ perspectives, which could hamper efforts to improve outcomes for young people leaving children’s services. This study aimed to understand GPs’ experiences of involvement with this group and explore their views on the roles and responsibilities of primary and secondary care in transition, to inform recommendations for policy and practice.

Method

Qualitative interview study with GPs across the UK. Semi-structured telephone interviews were carried out with 14 GPs recruited through a linked mapping study, social media, and snowballing; data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

In the absence of a smooth transition from child to adult services, many GPs became involved ‘by default’. GPs reacted by trying to identify suitable specialist services, and were faced with the decision of whether to continue ADHD prescribing. Such decisions were strongly influenced by perceptions that prescribing carried risks, and concerns over responsibility, particularly where specialist services were lacking. Participants described variation in service availability, and some highlighted tensions around how shared care works in practice.

Conclusion

Implementation of NICE guidance is highly variable, with implications for GPs and patients. Risk and responsibility for primary care ADHD prescribing are central concerns that need to be addressed, as is the inclusion of GPs in a planned transition process.

Seven steps to mapping health service provision: lessons learned from mapping services for adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the UK

BACKGROUND

ADHD affects some individuals throughout their lifespan, yet service provision for adults in the United Kingdom (UK) is patchy. Current methods for mapping health service provision are resource intensive, do not map specialist ADHD teams separately from generic mental health services, and often fail to triangulate government data with accounts from service users and clinicians. Without a national audit that maps adult ADHD provision, it is difficult to quantify current gaps in provision and make the case for change. This paper describes the development of a seven step approach to map adult ADHD service provision in the UK.

METHODS

A mapping method was piloted in 2016 and run definitively in 2018. A seven step method was developed: 1. Defining the target service 2. Identifying key informants 3. Designing the survey 4. Data collection 5. Data analysis 6. Communicating findings 7. Hosting/updating the service map. Patients and members of the public (including clinicians and commissioners) were involved with design, data collection and dissemination of findings.

RESULTS

Using a broad definition of adult ADHD services resulted in an inclusive list of identified services, and allowed the definition to be narrowed to National Health Service (NHS) funded specialist ADHD services at data analysis, with confidence that few relevant services would be missed. Key informants included patients, carers, a range of health workers, and commissioners. A brief online survey, written using lay terms, appeared acceptable to informants. Emails sent using national organisations' mailing lists were the most effective way to access informants on a large scale. Adaptations to the methodology in 2018 were associated with 64% more responses (2371 vs 1446) collected in 83% less time (5 vs 30 weeks) than the pilot. The 2016 map of adult ADHD services was viewed 13,688 times in 17 weeks, indicating effective communication of findings.

CONCLUSION

This seven step pragmatic method was effective for collating and communicating national service data about UK adult ADHD service provision. Patient and public involvement and engagement from partner organisations was crucial throughout. Lessons learned may be transferable to mapping service provision for other health conditions and in other locations.

The impact of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adulthood: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

There is limited evidence of the unmet needs and experiences of adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Previous research in this area is predominantly quantitative by nature, few studies employing qualitative approaches. This study seeks to provide a deeper insight into the lived experiences of adults with ADHD within Western Ireland.

METHODS

A qualitative design, consisting of semi-structured face-to-face interviews with a clinical sample in the Sligo/Leitrim area. Participants were eligible for this study if they screened positive for symptoms of ADHD, and diagnosed with ADHD with the Conners' Adult ADHD Diagnostic Interview for DSM-IV. In total, 11 participants completed this research. The interviews were open ended and exploratory, adopting a phenomenological approach.

RESULTS

Thematic analysis was used to explore three main themes; The Burden of symptoms of ADHD, Perceived Positive and Negative Effects of ADHD and Challenge of Accessing Services, each with several subthemes.

CONCLUSION

This research highlights the experiences of adults with ADHD. It is important for practitioners to be aware of the perceived positive and negative effects of the disorder, and how it can impact on their patient's lives. In addition, becoming aware of the stigma associated with ADHD can help clinicians improve upon individual treatment plans to meet their patient's needs. It is important to note that this sample experienced co-morbid diagnoses and so this may limit the interpretation of the findings. Further research in this area could explore patient's attitudes towards receiving a formal diagnosis of ADHD.

Review: Experiences of healthcare transitions for young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review of qualitative research

BACKGROUND

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. Up to two thirds of young people with ADHD may experience symptoms into adulthood, yet the limited literature available suggests that many young people with ongoing needs do not transfer from child to adult healthcare services. Although worldwide and NICE guidelines recognise the importance of supported transition, evidence suggests for ADHD that this is poorly managed and variable. Little is known about how transition is experienced by those involved. We aimed to synthesise existing peer-reviewed literature to understand views and experiences of young people, carers and clinicians on transitioning between child and adult ADHD services.

METHOD

Five databases were searched and all articles published between 2000 and up until January 2017 considered. Four key search areas were targeted; ADHD, Transition, Age and Qualitative Research. Quality appraisal was conducted using Wallace criteria. Findings from included studies were synthesised using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Eight papers, six from the UK and one each from Hong Kong and Italy, were included. Emerging themes centred on difficulties transitioning; hurdles that had to be negotiated, limitations of adult mental health services, inadequate care and the impact of transition difficulties.

CONCLUSIONS

Healthcare transition for this group is difficult in the United Kingdom because of multiple challenges in service provision. In addition to recommendations in NICE guidelines, respondents identified a need for better provision of information to young people about adult services and what to expect, greater flexibility around age boundaries and the value of support from specialist adult ADHD services. More research is needed into ADHD healthcare transition experiences, especially in countries outside the United Kingdom, including accounts from carers and clinicians.

Prescribing for young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in UK primary care: analysis of data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink

Guidance on management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the UK was issued by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence in 2008. No UK study has examined all psychotropic prescribing in young people with ADHD since the introduction of the guidance; this is especially relevant due to the high prevalence of psychiatric comorbidity in this population. The aim of this study was to describe primary care prescribing of ADHD and other psychotropic medications for young people with ADHD. The analysis of records of patients with an ADHD diagnosis in the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink from 2005 to 2013 was performed. Estimation of the prevalence of prescribing of ADHD and other psychotropic medications over 8-year follow-up for cases aged 10-20 years in 2005 was carried out. Of 9390 ADHD cases, 61.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 60.6-62.5%] had a prescription at some point for ADHD medication. Prescribing of other psychotropic medications was higher in girls than in boys (36.4% vs. 22.7%; p < 0.001). ADHD prescribing prevalence declined steeply between the ages of 16 and 18 from 37.8% (95% CI 36.6-38.9) to 23.7% (95% CI 22.7-24.6%). There was a parallel increase in prescribing of other psychotropics from 3.8% (95% CI 3.4-4.3%) to 6.6% (95% CI 6.0-7.3%). There is scope to optimise the management of ADHD and psychiatric comorbidities in young people, and there is a need for sustainable models of ADHD care for young adults, supported by appropriate training and specialist services.

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy v. treatment as usual in adults with ADHD: a multicentre, single-blind, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

There is a high need for evidence-based psychosocial treatments for adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to offer alongside treatment as usual (TAU). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is a promising psychosocial treatment. This trial investigated the efficacy of MBCT + TAU v. TAU in reducing core symptoms in adults with ADHD.

METHODS

A multicentre, single-blind, randomised controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02463396). Participants were randomly assigned to MBCT + TAU (n = 60), an 8-weekly group therapy including meditation exercises, psychoeducation and group discussions, or TAU only (n = 60), which reflected usual treatment in the Netherlands and included pharmacotherapy and/or psychoeducation. Primary outcome was ADHD symptoms rated by blinded clinicians. Secondary outcomes included self-reported ADHD symptoms, executive functioning, mindfulness skills, self-compassion, positive mental health and general functioning. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, post-treatment, 3- and 6-month follow-up. Post-treatment effects at group and individual level, and follow-up effects were examined.

RESULTS

In MBCT + TAU patients, a significant reduction of clinician-rated ADHD symptoms was found at post-treatment [M difference = -3.44 (-5.75, -1.11), p = 0.004, d = 0.41]. This effect was maintained until 6-month follow-up. More MBCT + TAU (27%) than TAU participants (4%) showed a ⩾30% reduction of ADHD symptoms (p = 0.001). MBCT + TAU patients compared with TAU patients also reported significant improvements in ADHD symptoms, mindfulness skills, self-compassion and positive mental health at post-treatment, which were maintained until 6-month follow-up. Although patients in MBCT + TAU compared with TAU reported no improvement in executive functioning at post-treatment, they did report improvement at 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

MBCT might be a valuable treatment option alongside TAU for adult ADHD aimed at alleviating symptoms.

An international clinical study of ability and disability in ADHD using the WHO-ICF framework

This is the fourth and final study designed to develop International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF, and children and youth version, ICF-CY) core sets for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). To investigate aspects of functioning and environment of individuals with ADHD as documented by the ICF-CY in clinical practice settings. An international cross-sectional multi-centre study was applied, involving nine units from eight countries: Denmark, Germany, India, Italy, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Sweden and Taiwan. Clinicians and clinical researchers rated the functioning level of 112 children, adolescents and adults with ADHD using the extended ICF-CY checklist version 2.1a. The ratings were based on a variety of information sources, such as medical records, medical history, clinical observations, clinical questionnaires, psychometric tests and structured interviews with participants and family members. In total, 113 ICF-CY categories were identified, of which 50 were related to the activities and participation, 33 to environmental factors and 30 to body functions. The clinical study also yielded strengths related to ADHD, which included temperament and personality functions and recreation and leisure. The study findings endorse the complex nature of ADHD, as evidenced by the many functional and contextual domains impacted in ADHD. ICF-CY based tools can serve as foundation for capturing various functional profiles and environmental facilitators and barriers. The international nature of the ICF-CY makes it possible to develop user-friendly tools that can be applied globally and in multiple settings, ranging from clinical services and policy-making to education and research.

Standardised assessment of functioning in ADHD: consensus on the ICF Core Sets for ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with significant impairments in social, educational, and occupational functioning, as well as specific strengths. Currently, there is no internationally accepted standard to assess the functioning of individuals with ADHD. WHO's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-child and youth version (ICF) can serve as a conceptual basis for such a standard. The objective of this study is to develop a comprehensive, a common brief, and three age-appropriate brief ICF Core Sets for ADHD. Using a standardised methodology, four international preparatory studies generated 132 second-level ICF candidate categories that served as the basis for developing ADHD Core Sets. Using these categories and following an iterative consensus process, 20 ADHD experts from nine professional disciplines and representing all six WHO regions selected the most relevant categories to constitute the ADHD Core Sets. The consensus process resulted in 72 second-level ICF categories forming the comprehensive ICF Core Set-these represented 8 body functions, 35 activities and participation, and 29 environmental categories. A Common Brief Core Set that included 38 categories was also defined. Age-specific brief Core Sets included a 47 category preschool version for 0-5 years old, a 55 category school-age version for 6-16 years old, and a 52 category version for older adolescents and adults 17 years old and above. The ICF Core Sets for ADHD mark a milestone toward an internationally standardised functional assessment of ADHD across the lifespan, and across educational, administrative, clinical, and research settings.

Examining the factors that are correlated with mindfulness with a focus on attention deficit hyperactivity symptoms

PURPOSE

We hypothesized that attention deficit hyperactivity symptoms would negatively correlate with the level of mindfulness.

DESIGN AND METHOD

Seventy-six subjects referred to the outpatient psychiatry unit and 32 healthy control subjects filled out the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), and the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS).

FINDINGS

Patients scored higher on ADH symptoms compared to controls (p ≤ .001). Higher scores on the ASRS and WURS revealed lower mindfulness in the study group (p ≤ .001). WURS, DASS depression, ASRS attention subscale-based scores (p < .05) were significant predictors on MAAS scores.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Besides emotional symptoms ADH symptoms had a significant predictive value on mindfulness.

Managing Complexity: Exploring Decision Making on Medication by Young Adults with ADHD

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) causes difficulties with hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. Treatment of ADHD includes both medication and non-pharmacological options. Knowledge of treatment preferences by young adults with ADHD is sparse. The objective of this study was to explore the beliefs and experiences of young adults with ADHD related to their medication treatment decisions. Data were collected in Denmark in 2016 through a focus group and individual in-depth interviews. Conventional content analysis was used. Ten young adults with ADHD (22-to 29-year-old) participated. Three major themes were identified: (1) the patient’s right to choose concerning ADHD medicine; (2) the patient’s decision of whether or not to treat ADHD with medication; and (3) factors affecting the patient’s decision on whether to take ADHD medication or not. The latter theme contained 15 factors, which were distributed across three levels: individual, between-individuals, and societal. The dominant factors were increasing quality of life and improving oneself e.g., improving social skills. For counselling at the pharmacy and by prescribers, it is important to be aware of the different factors that affect young adult patients’ decisions on whether to take ADHD medication or not. This knowledge will aid to understand reasons for non-adherence and to determine appropriate treatment for the individual patient.

Medication-taking experiences in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review

Background

Although attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition for which pharmacotherapy is considered an effective treatment, guidelines on the treatment of ADHD have been challenging to implement. Considering the views of patients and caregivers involved in medication-taking could help shed light on these challenges.

Objective

This review combines the findings of individual studies of medication-taking experiences in ADHD in order to guide clinicians to effectively share decisions about treatment.

Methods

Five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, SCOPUS and CINAHL) were systematically searched for relevant published research articles. Articles were assessed for quality using a Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist, and synthesis was performed using meta-ethnography.

Results

Thirty-one articles were included in the final synthesis, comprising studies of caregivers, paediatric patients and adult patients across seven countries. Findings were categorized into five different constructs, including coming to terms with ADHD, anticipated concerns about medication, experiences of the effects of medication, external influences and the development of self-management. The synthesis demonstrates that decisions surrounding medication-taking for ADHD evolve as the child patient enters adulthood and moves towards autonomy and self-management. In all parts of this journey, decisions are shaped by a series of 'trade-offs', where potential benefits and harms of medication are weighed up.

Conclusions

This review offers a comprehensive insight into medication-taking experiences in ADHD. By considering the shifting locus of decision-making over time and the need for individuals and families to reconcile a variety of external influences, primary care and mental health clinicians can engage in holistic conversations with their patients to share decisions effectively.

ADHD in children and young people: prevalence, care pathways, and service provision

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood behavioural disorder. Systematic reviews indicate that the community prevalence globally is between 2% and 7%, with an average of around 5%. At least a further 5% of children have substantial difficulties with overactivity, inattention, and impulsivity that are just under the threshold to meet full diagnostic criteria for ADHD. Estimates of the administrative prevalence (clinically diagnosed or recorded) vary worldwide, and have been increasing over time. However, ADHD is still relatively under-recognised and underdiagnosed in most countries, particularly in girls and older children. ADHD often persists into adulthood and is a risk factor for other mental health disorders and negative outcomes, including educational underachievement, difficulties with employment and relationships, and criminality. The timely recognition and treatment of children with ADHD-type difficulties provides an opportunity to improve long-term outcomes. This Review includes a systematic review of the community and administrative prevalence of ADHD in children and adolescents, an overview of barriers to accessing care, a description of associated costs, and a discussion of evidence-based pathways for the delivery of clinical care, including a focus on key issues for two specific age groups-younger children (aged ≤6 years) and adolescents requiring transition of care from child to adult services.

Experiences of an internet-based support and coaching model for adolescents and young adults with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder -a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

There is a great demand for non-medical treatment and support targeting the needs of adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). There is also a lack of qualitative studies providing in-depth insight into these individuals' own experiences within this area. The current study aimed to explore how adolescents and young adults with ADHD, ASD or both experienced taking part in an internet-based support and coaching intervention.

METHODS

Sixteen participants with ASD, ADHD or both who had participated in an 8-week internet-based support and coaching model, were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. Data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

Analysis yielded three themes; Deciding to participate, Taking part in the coaching process and The significance of format. Various motives for joining were expressed by participants, such as viewing the technology as familiar and appealing and expecting it to be better suited to their situation. There was also a previously unfulfilled need for support among participants. In deciding to take part in the intervention the coaches' competence and knowledge were considered essential, often in the light of previously negative experiences. Taking part in the coaching process meant feeling reassured by having someone to turn to in view of shared obstacles to seeking and receiving help. The support was used for talking through and receiving advice on matters related to their diagnosis. Findings further revealed appreciation for aspects relating to the format such as communicating through the written word, being in one's own home and an experience of immediacy. Some disadvantages were voiced including incomplete personal interaction and failing technology. There were also suggestions for greater flexibility.

CONCLUSIONS

The in-depth qualitative data obtained from this study suggest that the current model of support and the internet-based format have specific qualities that could play an important role in the support of adolescents and young adults with ADHD and ASD. Although not a replacement for face-to-face interaction, it could be a promising complement or alternative to other support and treatment options.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

"Internet-based Support for Young People with ADHD and Autism - a Controlled Study" retrospectively registered in www.clinicaltrials.gov ( ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02300597 ) at 2014-11-10.

Prescribing of medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder among young people in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink 2005-2013: analysis of time to cessation

The aim of this study was to examine the time to cessation of ADHD medication amongst young people with ADHD aged 16 in the period 2005-2013. Previous studies of prescribing in primary care reported high rates of medication cessation amongst 16 and 17 year olds with ADHD. The examination of trends since the introduction of new NICE guidance in 2008 will support service planning and improvement of outcomes over the vulnerable transition period from child to adult services. We used primary care records from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink and identified cases prescribed ADHD medication at the time of their 16th birthday during the study period. The outcome was time to medication cessation from the age of 16. Cessation of medication was defined as occurring at the beginning of a gap of over 6 months in prescriptions. 1620 cases were included. The median time to cessation was 1.51 years (95% CI 1.42-1.67).The estimated probability of remaining on medication was 0.63 (95% CI 0.61-0.65) at age 17 (i.e., at 1 year) and 0.41 (95% CI 0.39-0.43) at age 18. Young people with ADHD remain at high risk of cessation of medication during the transition from child to adult services. Despite the restriction that only primary care prescribing data were available, the results suggest continuing disparity between expected levels of symptom persistence and continuation of medication.

Living with symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adulthood: a systematic review of qualitative evidence

BACKGROUND

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) relates to four dimensions of behavior: inattentiveness, restlessness, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. Symptoms affect multiple areas of daily life such as academic performance and social functioning. Despite the negative effects of ADHD, people diagnosed with ADHD do not necessarily regard themselves as being impaired. However, it is unclear how adults with ADHD experience and manage their symptoms.

OBJECTIVES

To identify and synthesize the best available evidence on how adults experience living with ADHD.

INCLUSION CRITERIA TYPES OF PARTICIPANTS

Adults with confirmed ADHD diagnosis.

PHENOMENA OF INTEREST

How adults with ADHD experience and manage the symptoms of ADHD and links between protective factors provided by relatives, friends, fellow students, mentors and colleagues.

TYPES OF STUDIES

Studies based on qualitative data, including, but not limited to, designs within phenomenology, grounded theory, content analysis or ethnography.

SEARCH STRATEGY

A three-step search strategy identified published and unpublished qualitative studies from 1990 to July 2015.

METHODOLOGICAL QUALITY

Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were independently assessed by two reviewers using the standardized critical appraisal instrument from the Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-QARI).

DATA EXTRACTION

Data were extracted from 10 included studies using the JBI-QARI.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Qualitative research findings were synthesized using the JBI-QARI.

RESULTS

A total of 103 findings from 10 studies were aggregated into 16 categories that were meta-synthesized into four synthesized findings: "Adults are aware of being different from others and strive to be an integrated, accepted part of the community;" "Adults with ADHD are creative and inventive;" "Adults with ADHD develop coping strategies in striving for a healthy balance in life" and "For adults with ADHD, accomplishing and organizing tasks in everyday life is a challenge but it can also be rewarding."

CONCLUSION

Adults with ADHD have problems stemming from ADHD symptoms in relation to interacting in social relationships, academic functioning and being part of the community at the workplace and performing work tasks; they work harder to perform tasks and strive to be accepted and to be equal members of the community.Protective factors that support their ability to manage daily life with ADHD are personal strategies such as reminders and performing tasks within a given structure. Others close to them can assist by coaching, reminding them of appointments and so on. Superiors can assist by structuring the work tasks and setting up clear rules and limits for the tasks. Medication has proven to be very useful as it leads to less hyperactivity and enhances ability to stay focused and be more organized. Finally, insight into ADHD has a positive impact on the ability to manage the consequences of ADHD.Health professionals should, when advising adults with ADHD, fundamentally see them as persons who have a problem and not as problem persons, emphasize strategies adults themselves can apply such as structuring everyday tasks and informing them about positive effects and possible side effects of medication. Policy-makers could launch campaigns targeted at employers with information about the competencies adults with ADHD possess and how employers can benefit from these by structuring work tasks. When promoting employees with ADHD, it should be to positions with more advanced hands-on functions and not positions with administrative duties.

Psychiatric Comorbidity at the Time of Diagnosis in Adults With ADHD: The CAT Study

OBJECTIVE

The CAT (Comorbilidad en Adultos con TDAH) study aimed to quantify and characterize the psychiatric comorbidity at the time of diagnosis of ADHD in adult outpatients.

METHOD

Cross-sectional, multicenter, observational register of adults with ADHD diagnosed for the first time.

RESULTS

In this large sample of adult ADHD (n = 367), psychiatric comorbidities were present in 66.2% of the sample, and were more prevalent in males and in the hyperactive-impulsive and combined subtypes. The most common comorbidities were substance use disorders (39.2%), anxiety disorders (23%), and mood disorders (18.1%). In all, 88.8% patients were prescribed pharmacological treatment for ADHD (in 93.4% of cases, modified release methylphenidate capsules 50:50).

CONCLUSION

A high proportion of psychiatric comorbidity was observed when adult outpatients received a first-time diagnosis of ADHD. The systematic registering of patients and comorbidities in clinical practice may help to better understand and manage the prognostic determinants in adult ADHD.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder medication use: factors involved in prescribing, safety aspects and outcomes

While treatment of patients with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is based on a multimodal approach that combines medication with specific psychological interventions, pharmacotherapy alone is generally considered an essential and cost-effective element. This paper aims to comprehensively and critically review factors involved in prescribing and medication use in individuals diagnosed with ADHD, focusing on the difficulties facing patients with ADHD seeking treatment, as well as the safety and tolerability aspects of ADHD pharmacotherapies, with particular attention on the cardiovascular adverse events and the potential risk of misuse or diversion of ADHD medications. A comprehensive and systematic literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE database was conducted to identify studies published in peer-reviewed journals until 1 August 2016. Children, adolescents and adults often encounter significant difficulties in the process of accessing specialist assessment and treatment for ADHD as a consequence of disparities in service organization and available treatment provision. Despite the well-established efficacy and overall safety profile, ADHD medications are not exempt from adverse events. The cardiovascular safety of pharmacotherapies used for treating individuals with ADHD has raised particular concerns; however there is little evidence of serious cardiovascular adverse events, including no serious corrected QT (QTc) abnormalities associated with stimulants, atomoxetine or α2-adrenergic receptor agonists. Although the abuse of prescription stimulant drugs, particularly, short-acting stimulants is a prevalent and growing problem, nonmedical use of prescription stimulants within the clinical context is very limited. In addition, nonstimulant ADHD medications lack any reinforcing effects and consequently any abuse potential.