– We see that there has been a significant increase since 2020, after being fairly stable for a decade. The increase has been substantial for both genders, but for girls, it rises from a low level, says Heidi Aase, head of child health and development at the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI) to NTB.
Data from the Drug Statistics show that in 2004, 0.6 percent of girls aged 13 to 17 were prescribed ADHD medication. In 2023, this rose to 3.5 percent – five times more. Corresponding figures for boys in the same age group show that 2.1 percent were prescribed ADHD medications in 2004, while 5.4 percent received them last year.
The gap between the number of diagnosed girls and boys has become considerably smaller.
Not a boy’s diagnosis
– The particular increase among girls is likely largely due to increased awareness of how ADHD manifests in girls.
ADHD is a neurological disorder characterized by increased restlessness, impulsivity, and concentration difficulties. Much of the research has been conducted by men on young boys, leading to a lack of knowledge about how ADHD presents itself in girls and women.
– For a long time, it was seen as a “boy’s diagnosis,” with more overt behavior. Boys move around more and are noisier, they clash with others more, while girls’ ADHD manifests in other ways, says Aase.
Some characteristics
Compared to boys, girls with ADHD are less likely to exhibit behavioral problems. They may struggle to pay attention, complete tasks, and can be extra talkative, without this necessarily leading anyone to think of ADHD.
The expectation that girls should be kinder, quieter, and more capable than boys contributes to girls attempting to live up to this. They may expend a lot of energy hiding their difficulties. This can lead to additional issues such as anxiety and depression.
– Regardless, attention and concentration problems are at the core for both girls and boys, says Aase.
Those most severely affected by ADHD use medication to control symptoms. There has been a particular increase during the pandemic years and even into 2023, although experts cannot say exactly why.
– That a higher proportion of 13-17-year-olds today have access to medication does not necessarily reflect a real increase in the prevalence of ADHD. We need even more knowledge about ADHD and conduct more population-based studies to determine what the actual prevalence is, says Aase.
How can schools better support girls diagnosed with ADHD?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Heidi Aase on Rising ADHD Diagnoses in Girls
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Heidi Aase, head of child health and development at the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. We’ve seen some significant trends in the diagnosis of ADHD, particularly among girls. Can you give us a brief overview of the numbers you’ve been tracking?
Heidi Aase: Absolutely. Since 2020, there has been a notable increase in ADHD medication prescriptions among both girls and boys aged 13 to 17. For girls, the percentage jumped from just 0.6% in 2004 to 3.5% in 2023—a five-fold rise. Meanwhile, for boys, the increase was from 2.1% to 5.4%. What’s particularly interesting is how the gender gap in diagnoses has narrowed.
Time.news Editor: It’s fascinating to see such a spike, especially among girls. What do you believe has contributed to this increased awareness and diagnosis?
Heidi Aase: The surge in diagnoses among girls can largely be attributed to a greater understanding of how ADHD presents in females. Historically, ADHD has been perceived more as a “boy’s diagnosis,” often characterized by hyperactivity and impulsiveness, which are more readily recognized. However, girls may display more subtle symptoms, such as inattention, daydreaming, or emotional dysregulation, which can lead to underdiagnosis.
Time.news Editor: That really highlights the importance of recognizing different manifestations of ADHD. Why do you think it took so long for awareness to shift?
Heidi Aase: There are several factors at play. Societal norms and stereotypes about gender roles have influenced perceptions of behavior. For instance, we’ve often expected girls to be more composed and socially responsible, leading to a misunderstanding of ADHD symptoms in them. Additionally, educational systems and healthcare providers may not have been adequately trained to identify ADHD in girls until recent years.
Time.news Editor: With this increasing rate of diagnoses, what implications do you foresee for treatment and support systems?
Heidi Aase: The implications are significant. As awareness grows, it’s crucial that schools and healthcare providers develop effective support systems that are responsive to the unique needs of girls with ADHD. We need more tailored interventions, and importantly, a community that understands these girls’ struggles. In this way, we can enhance their educational outcomes and overall well-being.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a multi-faceted approach is needed. Are there any specific strategies that you believe could be effective in supporting young girls diagnosed with ADHD?
Heidi Aase: Yes, certainly. Strategies could include personalized educational plans, social skills training, and fostering an environment that allows for open communication about mental health. Furthermore, parental education is vital—helping parents recognize their child’s needs and navigate the resources available can make a significant difference.
Time.news Editor: It seems that while there’s progress, there is still a lot of work to be done. What message do you want to convey to our readers about ADHD, especially regarding young girls?
Heidi Aase: My message would be that ADHD is not just a “boys’ issue.” If you suspect that a girl might have ADHD, it’s important to seek evaluation. Awareness is the first step toward acknowledgment and support, and we must challenge the stereotypes that have held us back from recognizing and addressing this condition in girls.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Heidi, for shedding light on this important issue. It’s crucial that we continue to advocate for better awareness and resources for all young individuals struggling with ADHD.
Heidi Aase: Thank you for having me, and for helping spread this essential message!