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 or 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 counseling), or vocational or social service agencies to address deterioration in marital/ other important relationships, job performance, or financial status.