Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common psychiatric disorder of childhood and one that frequently persists into adulthood.

Research has demonstrated that persistence of ADHD from childhood into adulthood is estimated to be between 50% and 80%, meaning that approximately 4% of the adult population has ADHD.

There are currently no formal guidelines or standards of care for adolescent into adulthood ADHD patients. Identifying patients in this population remains a challenge for clinicians. If the ADHD was not recognized when the patient was a child, the diagnosis of ADHD is often overlooked in the adolescent into adulthood period.

Diagnosis remains clinically based, relying on clinical interviews, symptom rating scales, and subjective reporting from patients, parents, or siblings. Current diagnostic criteria for ADHD are still based on observations of school-aged children. As a result, the DSM-IV criteria have certain limitations when applied to adolescent into adulthood patients. Furthermore, the existence of comorbid conditions is very common in ADHD, affecting up to 3 of every 4 patients. As a result, psychiatrists must typically evaluate for ADHD amidst other psychiatric disorders. Mood disorders (major depression, bipolar disorder, and dysthymia), anxiety disorders, substance abuse, personality disorders, antisocial behavior, and learning disabilities are the chief psychiatric comorbidities.

Continued controversies surrounding the use of psychostimulants in the treatment of ADHD have added to misconceptions and confusion within the community.

Because of the unique challenges associated with ADHD in adolescent into adulthood patients, there is a clear need for education on management and treatment strategies for these populations so that psychiatrists may confidently and effectively improve the quality of life for patient with ADHD.