ADHD is now recognized as a relatively common mental disorder of teens and adults, affecting 4-5 percent of the adult population and accounting for an increasing number of referrals mental health and family practices in this country. The disorder has a pervasive impact on most major domains of daily life activities, including occupational, educational, and social functioning and health-related behavior. It is therefore imperative that mental health, medical, and educational professionals have as much up-to-date knowledge of this adult disorder and its treatment as possible.
This presentation will provide current information on the nature, comorbid disorders, adaptive impairments, and underlying nature of ADHD as it occurs in adults. Dr. Barkley will provide guidance on the diagnosis of ADHD and the need for clinical judgment beyond just employing a DSM-5 algorithm. He will also describe the most effective treatment components focusing particularly on counseling, medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy for executive function deficits, and Adult ADHD Coaching, as well as the need for educational and workplace accommodations.
This is Part I and focuses on the research understanding of the primary symptoms and the underlying nature of ADHD as a disorder of executive functioning. It also briefly discusses the various impairments in major life activities often associated with the disorder.