Work

ADHD: real-world consequences of missed diagnosis and mistreatment

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication effects and their putative role in shortening the lifespan of adults with ADHD remain unclear. This is largely because ADHD's diagnostic foundation lacks validity. Thus we argue that, until this is resolved, neither diagnosis nor treatment will serve patients' needs effectively, and estimates of mortality will remain as conjecture.

Source: The British Journal of Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1192/bjp.2026.10569

Authors: Kinga Szymaniak, Erica Bell, Gurubhaskar Shivakumar, Gin S. Malhi

Institutions: The University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, University of Oxford

Language: English

Topic: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W7131132575