The Surging Prevalence of ADHD: Treatment Options and Considerations
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has become a hot topic of conversation, increasingly discussed in casual settings as much as in medical circles. The term “ADHD” is now common, often bandied about by acquaintances who diagnose friends and strangers alike. However, seeking an accurate diagnosis from a qualified professional remains essential.
Estimates show that ADHD affects a significant portion of the population, with approximately 8% of children and adolescents diagnosed, and up to 6.7% of adults experiencing symptoms. This has led to a sharp rise in ADHD diagnoses in Australia over the last decade. The number of Australians prescribed ADHD medication grew by nearly 300% in a decade, reaching 470,000 people in 2022-2023. It is believed to be the most common mental health condition globally, affecting more than 360 million adults worldwide.
Journey to an Accurate Diagnosis
Gary, the author, initially received numerous ADHD diagnoses from friends and acquaintances. Curiosity led him to seek a professional assessment. Following a six-month wait, he consulted a Sydney-based psychiatrist, who conducted a comprehensive $530 assessment with a Medicare rebate of about $237.45.
The psychiatrist concluded that Gary’s ADHD was an “equivocal case,” mostly of the hyperactive/impulsive subtype. Further, the psychiatrist offered medication, specifically Vyvanse, which is a stimulant. However, Gary hesitated, unsure if he should take it.
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The Transformative Power of Medication
Medication can significantly improve the lives of those with ADHD. Stimulant medications like Ritalin or Vyvanse help regulate dopamine and norepinephrine levels, reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity and improving focus.
Kealey Nutt, 38, tried various strategies to manage her ADHD symptoms before starting medication. She reports that while the medication is not a cure, it helps calm her and manage her condition. Ginger Gorman, 48, similarly credits medication with alleviating her depression and anxiety.
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However, medications can also cause side effects, including emotional blunting, which can dull the energetic spikes typical of ADHD. Gary worried that taking medication might改变his already distinctive personality.
The Role of ADHD Coaching
Feeling medication was not the best fit, Gary sought alternative treatments, such as ADHD coaching. ADHD coaching is a growing field in Australia. Although coaches are not clinical mental health professionals, they can offer valuable assistance with structure, time management, and organisational skills.
Dr Michele Toner, the first certified ADHD coach in Australia, recommends ensuring any coach is accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Toner has created a directory of certified coaches, offering clients referrals from healthcare professionals.
One certified coach, Liz Welshman, underscores the importance of clinical evaluation before commencing coaching. While coaching can help with distraction and procrastination, it cannot diagnose or treat deeper emotional and cognitive challenges.
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Lauren Chesher, 39, found significant improvement through a combination of coaching and medication. Lauren credits her coach for helping her understand her hyper-focus as a strength rather than an impairment, which led her to develop a more balanced and productive lifestyle.
Affordability and Accessibility Issues
ADHD coaching can be expensive, with a one-hour session typically costing around $190. In contrast, a box of 100 tablets of Ritalin can cost less than $20 including the pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS) discount. This cost disparity may influence individuals to choose medication over coaching.
Critics also argue that the unregulated nature of ADHD coaching can lead to inconsistent quality. There is concern that clients may receive advice without the depth or breadth of clinical training needed to address underlying mental health concerns.