Compared to parents of ADHD children in other countries, UK parents found their child's ADHD symptoms the most difficult to deal with.

New Global Survey Reveals UK Parents Hardest Hit by Child's ADHD

Lilly Press Release:

August 24th 2004, Berlin, Germany: Results of a new international study into Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) show that the impact of the condition is far greater for UK families compared to their counterparts in seven other countries - almost 90% of UK parents surveyed admitted that family activities are disrupted compared to an average of 61% worldwide.¹ UK parents reported experiencing the most problems with their ADHD child, particularly during the mornings and evenings.¹ Furthermore, half of UK parents said they were not satisfied with the diagnosis and treatment process and were not fully informed about ADHD treatment options.¹

The survey was conducted among 766 parents worldwide including 102 parents from the UK. Levels of difficulty vary dramatically across the day. The UK parents surveyed found their child's symptoms the most difficult overall, with highest levels experienced in the morning by 95% of parents, followed by the evening for 90% of parents.¹ The survey revealed that as many as 70% of UK children with ADHD are excluded from social activities, compared to just 26% in the Netherlands¹ where the condition appears to be much less of a problem for children and families. In addition, 76% of UK parents questioned, find it difficult going places with their child with ADHD, whereas the global average is just 43%.¹

Charlotte Williams, a mother from Barnsley whose son was diagnosed with ADHD five years ago says: "As a mother of a child with ADHD, the results of this survey do not surprise me. ADHD is a 24-hour condition that can have a big impact on all parts of family life. Before my son received treatment, just doing simple things like going out to the shops with him was really difficult. We also felt excluded from parties and after-school activities. I think it is important for there to be more information available about ADHD, not just to help families like mine cope but so there is a better understanding of ADHD in general."

When asked about the diagnosis and treatment process, UK parents were the most unhappy overall - less than half were satisfied.¹UK parents were also one of the least well-informed about ADHD treatment options, with just 52% feeling fully informed.¹

Dr Val Harpin, a Paediatrician from Sheffield Children's NHS Trust commented: "Accurate and timely diagnosis are crucial to access the best treatment option for the child before secondary problems occur. It is important to give parents, children and young people more information so that we can work together for optimal treatment for people with ADHD."

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Notes to editors

About ADHD

1. ADHD affects an estimated 3-7 per cent of school-aged children,2 roughly two children in every classroom.

2. The core symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness which are not expected of those of the same age and developmental level.²

About the global research

1. The intentional survey asked 766 parents of children with ADHD their views on the impact of the condition on the child and family and views on the diagnosis and treatment process.

2. Participating countries included the UK, Italy, Mexico, Australia, Germany, US, the Netherlands and Spain.

3. Fieldwork took place during June and July 2004 and was sponsored by Lilly.¹

ADDISS

ADDISS is a registered charity providing information, training and support for parents, sufferers and professionals in the fields of ADHD and related learning and behavioural difficulties.
They can be contacted by phone: 020 8906 9068, e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit their website at http://www.addiss.co.uk/.

References

^1. ADHD Survey 2004 Global Findings. Ipsos Health August 2004
^2. American Psychiatric Association. DSM-IV Text Revision. 2000: 85-93