‘Historical stigma and ignorance’: Why is Europe struggling to focus on adult ADHD?

Despite its prevalence, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, remains one of the most misunderstood and overlooked conditions in Europe.

Characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, the neurodivergent condition became not only a challenge for the children it affects most commonly, but also for the adults who continue to struggle with its symptoms into later life.

The Underdiagnosis and undertreatment of this condition has created significant barriers, preventing effective support for those affected.

Dr Tony Lloyd, CEO of the ADHD Foundation, attributes one of the primary reasons for this issue to historical stigma and misconceptions.

"Because of the historical stigma and ignorance around ADHD as being a behavioural disorder and commonly associated with children who are perceived as badly behaved in school, there is a great deal of shame and stigma around the condition and a great deal of misunderstanding," Lloyd told Euronews Health.

The recent years, however, have seen a significant shift, with a surge in ADHD recognition and diagnoses, particularly intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Lloyd, this trend is due to the disruption of coping mechanisms during lockdowns, which affected many individuals.

"When the pandemic came, people were locked down, were not able to go out, exercise, interact with other people, have close personal support from colleagues at work. A lot of the support structures that enabled them to manage ADHD successfully were taken away," he explained.

While the pandemic has increased recognition and support for ADHD, it remains underdiagnosed in Europe, according to experts.

For instance, in the UK, the rate of ADHD diagnoses is significantly low.

"In the UK, only