ADHD Awareness Month Blog: Understanding ADHD and its Impact
October is ADHD Awareness Month and for that we're pleased to share a blog written by Francesca Kheir-Khahzadeh on Understanding ADHD and Its Impact. Francesca is Service Manager in the West Cluster of our Liaison and Diversion team within our criminal justice services.
Understanding ADHD and Its Impact
October marks ADHD Awareness Month, an important opportunity to shed light on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and its wide-ranging impact. ADHD affects individuals across all stages of life, influencing mental health, everyday functioning and interactions with societal systems, including the criminal justice system. Raising awareness about the complexities of this condition is essential for improving understanding, reducing stigma and ensuring better support for those affected.
ADHD and Mental Health
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These symptoms can deeply affect an individual’s mental health, often leading to other co-occurring conditions. Research indicates that individuals with ADHD are more likely to develop mood disorders, particularly if their ADHD remains untreated (Russell et al., 2021). This comorbidity creates a complex set of challenges that can be overwhelming, highlighting the need for greater awareness regarding mental health implications.
People with ADHD are significantly overrepresented in the prison population in the UK, with estimates suggesting that as many as 30-40% of individuals within the prison services may have ADHD (Young et al., 2020). The stigma surrounding ADHD can also contribute to mental health difficulties. Misunderstandings about the disorder often lead to judgement or isolation, with many individuals being labelled as disorganised or simply “difficult.” This societal stigma can result in poor self-esteem, increased anxiety, and depression in individuals struggling to cope with their symptoms (Barkley, 2018).
ADHD and the Criminal Justice System
ADHD is notably overrepresented in the criminal justice system. Studies suggest that individuals with ADHD are more likely to engage in impulsive behaviours, which can increase their chances of coming into contact with the criminal justice system (Young et al., 2018). Furthermore, the lack of appropriate support services and the misunderstanding of ADHD symptoms can exacerbate this interaction.
For example, individuals with ADHD may struggle to follow instructions given in the courtroom or find it challenging to focus on legal processes, leading to misunderstandings and further complications. Research also shows that people with untreated ADHD are more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviours and substance misuse, which further elevates their likelihood of involvement with the criminal justice system (Young et al., 2018).
Within prison services, individuals with ADHD often go undiagnosed or untreated, resulting in heightened behavioural problems and difficulties with rehabilitation programmes. This cycle highlights the urgent need for awareness and tailored interventions within the justice system.
Conclusion
Raising awareness about ADHD is a critical step toward improving the lives of individuals affected by the condition. Understanding the link between ADHD and mental health, as well as recognising the disorder’s influence on behaviour particularly in relation to the criminal justice system can help reduce stigma, increase early diagnosis, and provide more effective support systems.
The NHS website offers further information about early intervention and appropriate treatment, including behavioural therapies and medications that can significantly reduce symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
For more information, visit:
Let’s use this month to open conversations, share resources, and make life a little easier for those living with ADHD.
Francesca Roia Kheir-Khahzadeh
References:
- Barkley, R. A. (2018). ADHD in adults: What the science says. Guilford Press.
- Russell, A. E., Ford, T., & O’Connor, R. (2021). The association between ADHD and mental health problems in adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 30(3), 305-320. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00787-020-01681-x
- Young, S., Gudjonsson, G., Chitsabesan, P., Colley, B., & Farrington, D. (2020). ADHD and offending: Understanding the risks, mechanisms and resilience factors. Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health, 30(2), 66-76. https://doi.org/10.1002/cbm.2146
- Young, S., et al. (2018). ADHD and the criminal justice system: Understanding the issues and identifying solutions. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 59(4), 364-367. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.12942
