Prognosis of ADHD

Now that we’ve covered the basics of the physiology behind how ADHD affects the diagnosed patient, we can discuss how the disorder’s outcome, or prognosis. The effects of ADHD are not known to put one’s life in danger, but it can contribute to social problems, as we will discuss.

There is no cure for ADHD, but there are treatments such as drugs, counseling and lifestyle changes, or a combination of these. Most people diagnosed with ADHD will have the disorder throughout adulthood as well. Although most children can manage their ADHD and continue throughout adolescence and adulthood to lead productive, successful lives, others may not be able to manage it.

Those diagnosed with ADHD usually have social and educational problems (1). Strained relationships with siblings and parents are prominent as they do not follow directions as told or remember to do tasks as asked. About 25% of ADHD children develop antisocial disorder and become victims of criminal tendencies, substance abuse and/or suicidal behavior (2).

Ultimately, the best form of treating ADHD is diagnosing it early and properly treating it with medicine, counseling and/or lifestyle changes. Follow up on the next post to learn different treatments.  

1) "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)." Health News RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Oct. 2013.

2) "Result Filters." National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 11 Oct. 2013.