Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults

Given that relatively common environmental factors (poverty, poor prenatal care, spousal separation, a stressful academic environment, and parental stress) are associated with the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a broad array of social, educational, and family-based interventions could potentially reduce the incidence of childhood ADHD, and later persistence into adulthood.

Secondary preventive measures include scheduling patient follow-up visits to: 1) address the status of ADHD symptomatology, 2) assess for emergent psychiatric symptoms/worsening of existing psychiatric disorder(s), and, 3) assess for any substance use concerns (including prescribed medication misuse) in a timely manner. Patients can also be directed to appropriate treatment (e.g., family/marital counselling) or vocational or social service agencies to address deterioration in marital or other important relationships, job performance, or financial status.