In recent years, social media platforms have become a powerful source of information, education, and awareness on a variety of health-related topics. However, these platforms are now being linked to a rise in self-diagnosed mental health conditions, including ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). According to a recent study, a significant number of adults believe they may have ADHD after consuming content related to the disorder on platforms like TikTok. While social media is credited for spreading awareness, concerns are growing about individuals self-diagnosing and not seeking professional medical advice.
Study Results: A Quarter of Adults Suspect Self-Diagnosed ADHD
Dr. Justin Barterian, a clinical assistant professor at Ohio State University’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, cautions against this growing trend of self-diagnosis. “If you’re watching videos on social media and it makes you think that you may meet criteria for the disorder, I would encourage you to seek an evaluation from a psychologist, psychiatrist, or physician to get it checked out,” he advises. The danger, Dr. Barterian explains, lies in the oversimplification of symptoms, which can lead individuals to mistake ADHD for other conditions or miss underlying mental health issues that require different treatments.
The study, conducted by Ohio State University in August, surveyed 1,000 American adults and found that 25% of them suspect they may have ADHD, even though they have never been officially diagnosed. Despite this self-awareness, only about half of these individuals have sought a formal evaluation from a healthcare professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or physician.
The research highlights the role of social media in this phenomenon, as platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram are increasingly populated with videos from influencers, advocates, and even healthcare professionals discussing ADHD symptoms, management, and treatment options. These videos often focus on relatable symptoms such as distractibility, restlessness, and trouble focusing—symptoms that many people experience at some point, particularly in the fast-paced, multitasking environment of today’s digital age.
For younger adults, in particular, the study shows a higher likelihood of believing they have undiagnosed ADHD. They are also more proactive than older generations when it comes to seeking medical help. This may be because younger people are more engaged with social media, and consequently, more exposed to content about ADHD. However, it also raises concerns about how accurate self-diagnoses are when influenced by bite-sized video content, which may not provide a complete understanding of the disorder.
What is ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can interfere with everyday functioning and development.
In children, ADHD often presents as difficulty staying focused on schoolwork, following instructions, or sitting still in class. In adults, symptoms might manifest as disorganization, problems with time management, and impulsive decision-making. ADHD is thought to be highly genetic, with a strong family history being one of the key indicators of risk.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) estimates that about 5% of children globally have ADHD, and around 3–4% of adults in the UK are affected. However, these figures may be underestimated, as many individuals go undiagnosed due to the variability of symptoms and challenges in accessing mental health care.
Younger Generations and Self-Diagnosis
The study revealed a generational divide when it comes to ADHD awareness and self-diagnosis. Younger adults, especially those in their 20s and 30s, were far more likely to believe they had undiagnosed ADHD compared to older adults. Additionally, younger individuals were more likely to take action by seeking a formal evaluation from a healthcare professional. This finding reflects younger generations’ higher engagement with social media platforms and their comfort in turning to online sources for health-related information.
Despite their proactive nature, the researchers emphasize that these individuals should approach social media content with caution. While the videos help destigmatize ADHD and raise awareness, the content is not a substitute for professional diagnosis and care. Medical professionals point out that without proper assessment, individuals may misinterpret their symptoms or assume they have ADHD when they may be dealing with conditions such as anxiety, depression, or even other learning disorders.
ADHD: A Complex and Varied Condition
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can present a wide variety of symptoms, which makes accurate diagnosis challenging. Common symptoms include difficulty focusing on tasks, forgetfulness, poor time management, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These can manifest differently in different individuals. Some people may have more issues with attention and organization, while others may exhibit primarily hyperactive or impulsive behaviors.
Dr. Barterian noted that ADHD symptoms can also overlap with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or mood disorders, complicating self-diagnosis even further. “Anxiety, depression, and ADHD—all these things can look a lot alike, but the wrong treatment can make things worse instead of helping that person feel better and improving their functioning,” he explained.
Proper diagnosis, therefore, is critical. Without it, people may turn to inappropriate treatments, which can exacerbate their symptoms or fail to address the root cause of their struggles. For example, a person misdiagnosing themselves with ADHD might attempt to self-medicate or seek stimulant medications, which could be harmful if they are dealing with anxiety or depression instead.
Social Media and ADHD in the US vs. the UK
One notable aspect of the study is the comparison of ADHD diagnoses between the US and other countries, particularly the UK. Henry Shelford, the head of ADHD UK, points out that the healthcare systems in the two countries are structured differently, which affects how ADHD is recognized and diagnosed.
“In the UK, we recognized ADHD decades later than the US and have significant under-diagnosis and population gaps as a result,” Shelford said. He also explained that the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) operates with stricter guidelines on who can diagnose ADHD, limiting the ability of some individuals to get diagnosed and treated. This is in stark contrast to the US, where private healthcare and a more developed system of diagnosing ADHD make it easier for people to seek evaluations.
Shelford urges caution when comparing attitudes toward ADHD between the two countries, as cultural and systemic differences can make it difficult to draw meaningful conclusions from research conducted in one country and apply it to another.
The Genetic Component of ADHD
Another key finding in the study is the role of genetics in ADHD diagnoses. ADHD is known to be highly heritable, meaning it tends to run in families. Many adults only realize they may have ADHD after their children are diagnosed. As Dr. Barterian explained, “There’s more awareness of how it can continue to affect folks into adulthood and a lot of people are realizing, once their kids have been diagnosed, that they fit these symptoms as well, given that it’s a genetic disorder.”
This awareness has prompted many parents to seek their diagnoses, as they begin to recognize long-standing symptoms in themselves that had previously gone unnoticed or were misattributed to other factors, such as stress or personality traits. However, while genetic predisposition plays a significant role, environmental factors can also influence the development and severity of ADHD symptoms.
Global Prevalence of ADHD
Globally, ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) estimating that about 5% of children worldwide have ADHD. However, diagnosing the condition in adults can be more difficult. In the UK, approximately 3–4% of adults are believed to have ADHD, but these numbers are likely underestimated due to the challenges of diagnosing the condition in adulthood and the lack of comprehensive data on the adult population.
The study’s findings underscore the complexity of ADHD diagnosis and the need for more research and resources to support accurate assessments, particularly in adults. As awareness of ADHD continues to grow, more individuals will likely seek evaluations, which could lead to improved understanding and treatment of the disorder.
The Dangers of Self-Diagnosis of ADHD
Despite the increased awareness and discussion around ADHD, medical professionals caution against the dangers of self-diagnosis. Social media, while helpful in spreading awareness, can oversimplify complex mental health conditions. In many cases, videos and posts only offer a surface-level understanding of ADHD symptoms, leading people to believe they have the disorder without fully understanding its nuances.
For example, while many people may experience moments of distractibility, forgetfulness, or impulsivity, these symptoms alone do not necessarily indicate ADHD. Mental health disorders, including ADHD, are multifaceted and require a comprehensive evaluation that considers an individual’s full medical history, environment, and overall functioning.
Dr. Barterian stresses that seeking a professional evaluation is essential for anyone who suspects they have ADHD. “It’s important that people realize that self-diagnosis can lead to missed opportunities for proper treatment,” he said. “ADHD is a highly treatable condition, but only when the diagnosis is accurate and based on a thorough assessment.”
Conclusion
The rise in self-diagnosed ADHD, spurred by social media, highlights both the positive and negative aspects of digital platforms in mental health awareness. While social media has undoubtedly played a role in educating people about ADHD and reducing the stigma surrounding it, it has also led to an increase in self-diagnoses that may not be accurate.
Experts urge individuals who suspect they may have ADHD to seek professional evaluations rather than relying solely on online content. A thorough, accurate diagnosis is critical for proper treatment, and self-diagnosis can lead to unnecessary or harmful interventions.
As ADHD continues to gain attention, particularly among younger generations, it is vital to ensure that the conversation remains grounded in evidence-based practices and that individuals receive the care they need from qualified healthcare providers. Only then can we address the growing number of people who believe they have ADHD and provide them with the proper tools to manage their condition effectively.
FAQs
What does ADHD do to a person?
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, affects a person’s ability to focus, control impulses, and manage energy levels. It can manifest in different ways, such as inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. Individuals with ADHD may struggle with tasks that require sustained concentration, find it hard to stay organized and act without thinking about the consequences. In both children and adults, ADHD can affect daily life, school, work, and relationships if left unmanaged. However, with proper treatment, such as medication, behavioral therapy, or lifestyle adjustments, many people with ADHD can lead fulfilling, productive lives.
What does ADHD feel like?
ADHD can feel like being constantly overwhelmed or distracted. For people with ADHD, it can be challenging to concentrate on one thing for a prolonged period, making everyday tasks such as work, studying, or even conversations feel difficult. Many describe it as having a “busy mind,” where thoughts race from one topic to another. It may also feel frustrating, as tasks that seem easy for others may take extra effort to complete, leading to stress or self-doubt. Physically, some people may feel restless or fidgety, like they always need to move.
Do I have ADHD or am I just lazy?
The key difference between ADHD and laziness lies in the ability to complete tasks, rather than the willingness. People with ADHD may struggle to focus and organize their tasks, even if they want to get things done. This is due to how their brain processes information and prioritize actions, which can lead to delays or difficulties completing tasks. Laziness, on the other hand, usually refers to a lack of motivation or desire to do things, despite being able to. If you suspect you might have ADHD, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper assessment rather than attributing struggles to laziness.
What is ADHD like in adults?
In adults, ADHD symptoms often look different from how they appear in children. Adults may experience persistent difficulties with focus, organization, time management, and following through with tasks. They might often forget appointments, lose items, or feel scattered. Impulsivity can also manifest in decision-making, such as making quick choices without fully thinking through the consequences. For some adults, hyperactivity lessens over time, but they may still feel inner restlessness or fidgeting in certain situations. ADHD in adulthood can impact work, relationships, and daily responsibilities, but with the right treatment, it can be managed effectively.
If you’re experiencing some of these symptoms, seeking a professional evaluation can help clarify whether you may have ADHD or if other factors might be at play.
What is Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ICD-10?
In the ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision), ADHD is classified as an F90.0 Hyperkinetic Disorder. It includes symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that impair functioning in social, academic, or occupational settings.
Which of the following is not a feature of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
Typically, features of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Mood swings or hallucinations, for example, are not features of ADHD and may be related to other psychological conditions.
