The prevalence of ADHD cases in the U.S. has notably increased, with approximately 1 in 9 children diagnosed with the disorder as of 2022.
This rise is attributed to heightened awareness of ADHD symptoms among doctors, parents, teachers, and children themselves, leading to easier identification. Moreover, the availability of various treatments has incentivized testing and diagnosis by healthcare providers. The COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated symptoms or allowed for closer observation by parents, potentially contributing to increased diagnoses.
Changes in diagnostic guidelines and expanded criteria have also broadened access to diagnosis and treatment. However, despite the increase in diagnoses, a significant portion of children with ADHD do not receive behavior therapy or medication, partly due to limitations in access to healthcare services and shortages of ADHD medications.