Over 1 million in SA affected by ADHD

ADULT attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects more than 1 million South Africans between the ages of 20 and 50, a new study by Dr Renata Schoeman, psychiatrist and University of Stellenbosch Business School (USB) top MBA student for last year, has found.

For her MBA thesis, Schoeman looked at establishing the situation in South Africa, focusing specifically on the psychiatric management and funding for treatment of adult ADHD in the private sector.

“Many adults with ADHD go untreated for the majority of their lives.

“This can lead to significant increases in the risk for other psychiatric conditions such as anxiety and mood disorder, as well as substance abuse.

“It also has considerable impact in the workplace, leading to poor time management, goal setting, stress management and organisational skills.”

ADHD, which is characterised by severe and impaired levels of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity is often evident in childhood.

Schoeman said: “Although some children appear to ‘outgrow’ the developmental disorder, in truth many of them just become more skilled in managing the symptoms and, as adults, compensating for their ADHD-related impairment through lifestyle and career choices.

“Individuals with ADHD are often highly intelligent and creative, with lateral and analytical thinking – yet they often lead a life of underachievement and failure, manifested as poor academic and work performance, interpersonal conflict and marital disorder.

“These negative experiences can lead to the development of destructive, negative thoughts and beliefs that further decrease motivation and performance and increase avoidance behaviour and emotional problems.” – Lifestyle Reporter