Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most
common psychiatric disorder in children, affecting approximately 1 in 20, and
follows about 65% of them into adulthood, affecting about 1 million adults in
South Africa.
However, ADHD is a condition often misdiagnosed and plagued
by myths and misunderstandings, particularly regarding treatment. The condition
hampers sufferers’ educational performance, self-esteem, relationships, and
work productivity, and leads to increased risk of other psychiatric disorders,
reduced social functioning, delinquency, and substance abuse.
At the 4th South African Multidisciplinary ADHD Congress
held 30 August to 2 September, hosted by Stellenbosch Business School in
partnership with the Goldilocks and the Bear Foundation, international and
local multi-disciplinary professionals comprising of psychiatrists,
paediatricians, general practitioners, psychologists, and occupational
therapists will gather virtually to present the latest research and optimal
management insight of ADHD.
Congress convenor and head of healthcare leadership at
Stellenbosch Business School, Prof Renata Schoeman, says lack of knowledge and
funding for treatment are two of the main access barriers to diagnosis and
treatment.
“It is estimated that 17% of children and adolescents face
mental health challenges in low- and middle-income countries whilst half of all
mental health disorders develop before the age of 14. However, only 1% of all
psychiatric services are dedicated to child and adolescent mental health.
“Lack of awareness of ADHD and other mental health
difficulties, overburdened healthcare services, and the stigma surrounding
mental health, impedes the early identification of, and intervention for ADHD
and comorbid disorders.
“The congress aims to, given the prevalence of ADHD, as well
as the impact undiagnosed and untreated ADHD has on the scholastic,
occupational, emotional, financial and social well-being of individuals with
ADHD, highlight the importance of advocacy and access to treatment.
Prof Schoeman says in countries such as South Africa, only
5% of the health budget (13.8% of the GDP) is allocated to mental health.
Prof Schoeman says 40 different ADHD-related sessions will
be presented at the congress which serves as a platform for medical
professionals to share the latest research and engage in critical discussions
and debates in bridging the knowledge gap and barriers to accessing treatment.
“Over the years the congress has been a springboard for
renewed interest in research in the field, as well as provided opportunities of
upskilling and engaging with healthcare professionals, ultimately improving the
outcome of all individuals with ADHD in our unique (Southern) African context.”
ADHD is characterised by a persistent pattern of
inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that impair development and
functioning, and are often coupled with behavioural, academic, social and
emotional problems that can lead to difficulties in interpersonal relationships
and in school and work performance.
Signs of inattention include difficulty in staying focused,
wandering off tasks, lacking persistence, being disorganised, poor time
management and procrastination.
Hyperactivity refers to excessive, inappropriate activity
such as constantly fidgeting, children talking or leaving their seat in class,
often “on the go” and having difficulty playing quietly; while impulsivity
shows in poor self-control such as a short temper, social intrusiveness, making
spur-of-the-moment decisions without considering the consequences, and
addictive behaviours.
“Although some children appear to ‘outgrow’ ADHD, the
condition does continue into adolescence in most cases and it is more a case of
some becoming more skilled in managing the symptoms and, as adults,
compensating for their ADHD-related impairment through lifestyle and career
choices,” says Prof Schoeman.
“ADHD can continue to have a severe impact, with many adults
with ADHD going untreated for most of their lives while being at increased risk
of other psychiatric conditions, substance abuse and work-related problems
caused by their poor time management and organisational skills.”
Prof Schoeman emphasises the importance of consulting a
health professional such as a paediatrician, psychiatrist, or psychologist for
a formal diagnosis of ADHD, and to determine whether there are other causes for
the symptoms (such as sleep deprivation, depression, anxiety, excessive
screentime, or medical conditions), and to obtain appropriate treatment.
“The negative impact of ADHD on a person’s overall quality
of life can be substantially improved with the correct diagnosis and effective,
multi-modal treatment, including medication, behavioural therapy and social and
educational support.”
To
register for any part of the virtual congress visit https://adhdcongress.co.za/register/
