Is ADHD Actually On “The Rise?”

You might have heard that more and more people are being diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Over the past few decades, ADHD diagnoses have been rising steadily across the United States and other parts of the world. More children, teens, and adults are being told they have Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) than ever before! So what is actually going on? Let us take a closer look below.

To Start, What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s ability to focus, regulate impulses, and manage energy levels. It often begins in childhood but can continue into adulthood. People with ADHD may struggle with paying attention, staying organized, following through on tasks, or sitting still for long periods. There are three main types: inattentive (difficulty focusing), hyperactive-impulsive (restlessness and impulsive behavior), and combined (a mix of both). While everyone can occasionally feel distracted or restless, ADHD symptoms are more intense, persistent, and interfere with daily life, school, work, or relationships. With the right support, strategies, and sometimes medication, individuals with ADHD can thrive!

Yes, it is true that more and more people are being diagnosed with ADHD.

Over the past few decades, ADHD diagnoses have been rising steadily across the United States and other parts of the world. More children, teens, and adults are being told they have ADHD than ever before. But what is behind this increase? Are more people developing ADHD, or are we just better at recognizing it? According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), about 6% of children in the U.S. were diagnosed with ADHD in the early 2000s. Today, that number has grown to over 10%. And it is not just kids, as adult diagnoses have surged as well, especially among women and individuals assigned female at birth, who were often missed or misdiagnosed in childhood. Thus, this increase is real, but it is not necessarily bad news.

Why Are More People Being Diagnosed?

1. Greater Awareness: ADHD is better understood today than in the past. Teachers, parents, and mental health professionals are more familiar with the signs, including the less obvious ones like forgetfulness, emotional dysregulation, and daydreaming. More people have access to evaluations through schools, pediatricians, therapists, and even telehealth. This makes it easier to spot and treat it earlier.
2. Improved and Broader Diagnostic Criteria: Diagnostic tools and criteria have evolved. ADHD is no longer seen as just a “hyperactive boy” condition. Now, we recognize inattentive types, combined types, and how they can look different across age, gender, and cultural background.
3. Reduced Stigma: People are starting to realise that it is okay to ask for help! Mental health awareness has grown significantly. Many people who once felt ashamed or dismissed are now empowered to ask questions, get assessed, and seek support.
4. Rise in Adult Diagnoses: Many adults are realizing they have had ADHD their whole lives, but were never diagnosed. For some, a child’s diagnosis leads to their own. For others, social media posts or life challenges (like burnout or parenting) trigger self-reflection and professional evaluation. It is great that these people are finally able to get the support they need in life!

In summary, there is little evidence that more people are developing ADHD.

Instead, what’s changed is our understanding of ADHD, our ability to recognize it across the lifespan, and our willingness to seek help and talk about it. If you or a loved one is struggling with possible ADHD, reach out to Mountain Vista Psychology today to talk with a highly trained mental health provider about how we can support the journey to living a better life!

Start ADHD Therapy in Littleton, CO, Englewood, Greenwood Village, and Beyond!

You’re not alone — and you don’t have to keep wondering. At Mountain Vista Psychology, we specialize in understanding and supporting individuals with ADHD at every stage of life. Whether you’re exploring a diagnosis for the first time or seeking tools to manage daily challenges, we’re here to help. You can start your therapy journey with our team of caring therapists by following these simple steps:

• Contact us today to schedule a consultation
• Meet with a trained therapist
• Take the first step toward greater clarity, confidence, and support.

Explore Other Services With Mountain Vista Psychology

Our Colorado counseling clinics are happy to offer a variety of services to support your mental health in addition to ADHD testing and ADHD therapy for children, teens, and adults. Other services offered via in-person and online counseling include child counseling, teen counseling, adult counseling, family therapy, grief counseling, and therapeutic yoga. Additionally, we provide neurofeedback therapy, including targeted neurofeedback for ADHD, autism, anxiety, concussion/TBI recovery, and sports or performance enhancement. We also conduct evaluations for learning disabilities and Autism. Read through the Mountain Vista blog for helpful information and insights!