ADHD recognized too late: burdens and solutions for those affected!

ADHD recognized too late: burdens and solutions for those affected!

The current discussion about ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) makes it particularly clear how important early detection of this disease is. Although ADHD is receiving increasing attention among school children, many adults suffer from late diagnosis. This is also emphasized by Michaela Hartl, a curative and special education teacher, who, at an event organized by the Vienna ÖVP Brigittenau, pointed out the considerable stress that those affected have to endure without a diagnosis. It is estimated that between 2.5 and 3.5 percent of adults suffer from ADHD, but only 0.8 to 1.0 percent are diagnosed meinkreis.at reports.

The challenges for those affected by ADHD are diverse. ADHD is often perceived as a “different neurotype”, which is often interpreted as an excuse in professional life. In addition, the term “ADHD burnout” is being heard more and more frequently. Many sufferers wonder why they are exhausted without recognizing the cause of their condition. Studies show that ADHD symptoms such as inattention and impulsivity can increase the risk of burnout in both children and adults. A study has highlighted, among other things, the difficulties that result from deficits in executive function, such as time management and problem-solving skills, which is also discussed in adhs-weg.de.

The challenges after the diagnosis

After the diagnosis, those affected by ADHD face further difficulties, especially when dealing with social regulations and finding suitable professionals. Marianne Osner, vice chair of “Team ADHD”, makes it clear that understanding is required instead of pity. There is also a lack of trained specialists and financial resources for ADHD training, which further complicates the situation for many of those affected. Romana Deckenbacher, district leader of the ÖVP, also calls for specific content for teachers in the school curriculum in order to better address the challenges of ADHD.

The lack of support means that many ADHD sufferers struggle to make ends meet. They are often dependent on early retirement, which is made more tangible by the suggestion that those affected can retire 15 years earlier in the future. In contrast to Germany, there is no rehabilitation for adults with ADHD in Austria, which makes the situation even more precarious.

Insight into the connections between ADHD and burnout

When it comes to the connections between ADHD and burnout, research shows that those with ADHD are at higher risk of burnout than others. One reason for this are structural and neurobiological peculiarities in the brain that are often present in people with ADHD. The stimulus filter in the brain is often opened too wide, resulting in a large flood of information that cannot be processed efficiently. This puts an enormous burden on those affected, as they have to use a lot of energy to deal with these challenges. The symptoms of ADHD and their influence on the risk of burnout are also discussed in detail in praxis-adhs.de.

In summary, the late diagnosis of ADHD has significant consequences for both those affected and society. There is an urgent need for better awareness of this condition and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure adequate support and prevention. This is the only way we can help those affected to lead a fulfilling life and face the challenges.