Latest news with #BMJMentalHealth
The Herald Scotland
12 hours ago
- Health
- The Herald Scotland
Domestic abuse survivors face long-term consequences
A new study from the University of Glasgow explored the mental health consequences associated with domestic violence and traumatic brain injury, and suggested that the impact can last for 27 years after the abuse ends. The study, Intimate partner violence, traumatic brain injury and long-term mental health outcomes in mid-life: The Drake IPV study, is published in the BMJ Mental Health journal, and researchers said the issue had been 'neglected'. Using data from the multi-centre PREVENT Dementia Study, the researchers found that 14% of 632 study participants, women aged 40 to 59 at recruitment, reported a history of domestic violence with physical abuse. Compared with unexposed participants, domestic violence was associated with higher traumatic brain injury exposure, alongside higher lifetime and ongoing diagnoses of mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, sleep disorders and PTSD. The risk of ongoing mid-life mental health disorders remained, despite exposure to domestic violence having ceased on average 27 years before assessment, according to the research. A history of traumatic brain injury in those exposed to domestic violence was also associated with increased risk of ongoing PTSD symptoms and concurrent mental health disorders, the study found. The work was funded by the Drake Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the Medical Research Council, NHS Research Scotland, the Alzheimer's Society, and the Alzheimer's Association. Professor Willie Stewart said: 'Given its prevalence, these findings highlight domestic violence as a public health issue with potential for long-lasting impacts on brain health. 'Our work also reinforces the need for more research in this previously neglected area.' Dr Graciela Muniz-Terrera, a co-author on the study, said: 'This study highlights the importance of including questions about domestic violence in population research to advance our knowledge about its long-term effects.'
Telegraph
12-03-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
Lockdown fuelled near-doubling of ADHD drug prescriptions
Lockdown fuelled a near-doubling in the number of prescriptions for drugs to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A new study has revealed that prescriptions per 1,000 people in England rose from 25.17 in 2019-20 to 41.55 in 2023-24. Researchers from Aston and Huddersfield universities said the average annual rise of 18 per cent was 'significant'. The authors said there was a 'strong association between the impact of the [Covid-19] pandemic and the worsening of ADHD symptoms'. They claimed that lockdowns had 'dramatically altered daily routines', such as through online or hybrid teaching and work, while also increasing stress levels for many people. These changes 'may have exacerbated ADHD symptoms in some people, making those symptoms more noticeable and prompting individuals to seek diagnosis and treatment', said the team. The experts also said there was an increasing awareness of ADHD, including via social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, which was likely to have encouraged more people to seek diagnosis and treatment. But they warned that 'misinformation on these platforms may lead to misconceptions about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment'. The study, published in the BMJ Mental Health journal, looked at English prescribing data for the five currently licensed ADHD drugs, to give the most robust picture of changing trends to date. The drugs were three stimulants: methylphenidate – which has brand names including Ritalin, Concerta and Delmosart – dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine. They also considered two non-stimulants, atomoxetine and guanfacine. The study found that methylphenidate remained the most-prescribed medication, while lisdexamfetamine showed the highest growth rate, at 55 per cent annually. The biggest rises in prescription rates were seen in London and the South-East, while the smallest rises were in the North-East and Yorkshire. The experts said use of ADHD medicines by children and adults was supported by 'substantial evidence' that they improved quality of life and cut substance misuse. They also said 'the role of medications becomes more important in the absence or lack of availability of alternative treatment options, such as psychological or behavioural therapy'. The researchers said social media had been ' instrumental in spreading awareness ' but it was 'crucial to approach the information with caution, as the accuracy and reliability of the content can vary significantly'. They called for more to be done to vet information online about the condition and also said more research was needed to work out whether these trends 'represent a temporary shift or a more permanent change in ADHD prescriptions'. About 5 per cent of children, some 700,000 across the UK, and 3 to 4 per cent of adults, are thought to have ADHD, but the new research suggests the number is rising. Because the researchers looked at prescription data, it is not possible to determine a precise number of people taking the drugs, but the data give a good indication of the increase. People with ADHD are known to suffer inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, and may struggle to concentrate on a given task, or suffer extreme fidgeting. Dr Ulrich Muller-Sedgwick, ADHD champion at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said people with ADHD needed access to timely and effective assessment, 'followed by the appropriate treatment'. He added: 'We've seen a significant increase in the number of people coming forward for ADHD support in recent years. 'There are many reasons for this, including improved recognition of ADHD in women, greater public awareness, and the impacts of the pandemic, which exacerbated many people's symptoms.' Dr Paul Keedwell, a consultant psychiatrist and neuro-diversity specialist, said: 'We know that the rate of diagnosis in children and adolescents was fairly level between 2020 and 2023, but there was a big increase in adult ADHD diagnoses, likely due to improved awareness, de-stigmatisation and an increased availability of assessments, especially in the private sector. 'There could also be an impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, including the direct neurological effect of the virus and a catch-up in assessments since the lockdown. Time will tell if this is a blip or a long-term trend. 'Finally, there could be a degree of over-diagnosing. Although there is no clear evidence for this, it is important that all individuals receive a holistic assessment with a psychiatrist. Many other mental health conditions can cause ADHD-like symptoms. 'For example, my own clinical work has revealed many cases where inattention problems were caused by untreated depression rather than ADHD. 'Also, ADHD is often accompanied by other mental disorders like autistic spectrum disorder, complex trauma, anxiety and depression.'
BBC News
12-03-2025
- Health
- BBC News
ADHD prescriptions jump 18% year-on-year, researchers find
Prescriptions for drugs to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have increased 18% each year since the Covid pandemic, a new study has found. Research from experts at the University of Huddersfield and Aston University suggested there was an upward trend in prescriptions for the condition in each region across could be due to increasing awareness of ADHD via social media, encouranging more people to seek diagnosis and treatment, the project experts warned that "misinformation on these platforms may lead to misconceptions about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment". A second reason behind the rise in prescriptions could be the "strong association between the impact of the (Covid) pandemic and the worsening of ADHD symptoms," researchers study, which was published in the journal BMJ Mental Health, calculated that prescriptions in England "increased significantly" from 25.17 items per 1,000 population in 2019/20 (before Covid) to 41.55 items in 2023/24, with an average annual increase of 18% prescribing data was used for the five currently licensed ADHD drugs at national, regional, and NHS integrated care board (ICB) drugs are the stimulants methylphenidate - such as Ritalin, Concerta and Delmosart - dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine and two non-stimulants - atomoxetine and guanfacine. Regional variations The study found that methylphenidate remained the most-prescribed medication while lisdexamfetamine showed the highest growth rate (55% annually).It said there was an upwards trend, but there were variations across the regions with "an average yearly increase ranging from 13% in the North East and Yorkshire region to 28% in the London region". The experts said use of ADHD medicines in children and adults was supported by "substantial evidence", including that they improved quality of life and ability, and cut substance misuse. People with ADHD are known to suffer inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, and may struggle to concentrate on a given task, or suffer extreme Ulrich Muller-Sedgwick, ADHD champion at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said people with the condition need access to timely and effective assessment, "followed by the appropriate treatment"."The right diagnosis and care, including medication and reasonable adjustments, can greatly benefit people's health and support them to reach their full potential at school, university or work."We know that expanding ADHD services through targeted investment would help ensure people receive the vital care they need," he added. Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
Yahoo
11-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Prescriptions for ADHD drugs jump 18% year-on-year, figures show
Prescriptions for drugs to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have jumped 18% year-on-year since the pandemic, research suggests. Experts said increasing awareness of ADHD, including via social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, is likely to have encouraged more people to seek diagnosis and treatment for the condition. However, they warned that 'misinformation on these platforms may lead to misconceptions about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment'. Another reason behind the rise could be the 'strong association between the impact of the (Covid) pandemic and the worsening of ADHD symptoms', they said. The new study, from experts at Aston University and the University of Huddersfield, calculated that ADHD prescriptions in England 'increased significantly' from 25.17 items per 1,000 population in 2019/20 (before Covid) to 41.55 items in 2023/24, with an average annual increase of 18% nationally. The team looked at English prescribing data for the five currently licensed ADHD drugs at national, regional, and NHS integrated care board (ICB) levels. The drugs were three stimulants (methylphenidate which has brand names such as Ritalin, Concerta and Delmosart; dexamfetamine, lisdexamfetamine) and two non-stimulants (atomoxetine and guanfacine). The study found that methylphenidate remained the most prescribed medication while lisdexamfetamine showed the highest growth rate (55% annually). Published in the journal BMJ Mental Health, the study said there is an upward trend in ADHD prescription items in all seven regions of England. 'However, there were variations in prescription trends across different regions, with an average yearly increase ranging from 13% in the North East and Yorkshire region to 28% in the London region. The second-highest change in prescriptions per year was noted in South East England (19.37%).' Regarding the drugs, the experts said use of ADHD medicines in children and adults is supported by 'substantial evidence', including that they improve quality of life and ability, and cut substance misuse. They also said 'the role of medications becomes more important in the absence or lack of availability of alternative treatment options, such as psychological or behavioural therapy.' On what is driving the rise, the researchers said: 'Increased public and professional awareness, partly driven by social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, has likely encouraged more people to seek assessment, diagnosis and treatment. 'Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become new hubs for ADHD campaigns, with thousands of people sharing their experiences, coping strategies and journey to diagnosis. 'While social media has been instrumental in spreading ADHD awareness, it is crucial to approach the information with caution, as the accuracy and reliability of the content can vary significantly. 'Misinformation on these platforms may lead to misconceptions about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.' The team called for more research on 'vetting and moderating ADHD-related information on social media' to ensure awareness efforts 'do not inadvertently spread misinformation'. They added: 'Additionally, the role of professional diagnosis and treatment should be emphasised, balancing the role of social media with evidence-based practices.' On the pandemic, the experts said it has 'dramatically altered daily routines' such as through online or hybrid teaching and work, and increased stress levels for many people. These changes 'may have exacerbated ADHD symptoms in some people, making those symptoms more noticeable and prompting individuals to seek diagnosis and treatment.' More research is needed to work out whether these trends 'represent a temporary shift or a more permanent change in ADHD prescriptions'. Until now, around 5% (700,000) of UK children and about 3–4% of adults are thought to have had ADHD but the new research suggests a rise. People with ADHD are known to suffer inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, and may struggle to concentrate on a given task, or suffer extreme fidgeting. Dr Ulrich Muller-Sedgwick, ADHD champion at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said people with ADHD need access to timely and effective assessment, 'followed by the appropriate treatment'. He added: 'We've seen a significant increase in the number of people coming forward for ADHD support in recent years. 'There are many reasons for this, including improved recognition of ADHD in women, greater public awareness and the impacts of the pandemic which exacerbated many people's symptoms. 'The right diagnosis and care, including medication and reasonable adjustments, can greatly benefit people's health and support them to reach their full potential at school, university or work. 'We know that expanding ADHD services through targeted investment would help ensure people receive the vital care they need.' Dr Paul Keedwell, a consultant psychiatrist and neurodiversity specialist, said: 'We know that the rate of diagnosis in children and adolescents was fairly level between 2020 and 2023, but there was a big increase in adult ADHD diagnoses, likely due to improved awareness (especially in women), de-stigmatisation and an increased availability of assessments, especially in the private sector. 'There could also be an impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, including the direct neurological effect of the virus and a catch-up in assessments since the lockdown. Time will tell if this is a blip or a long-term trend. 'Finally, there could be a degree of overdiagnosing. Although there is no clear evidence for this, it is important that all individuals receive a holistic assessment with a psychiatrist. 'Many other mental health conditions can cause ADHD-like symptoms. 'For example, my own clinical work has revealed many cases where inattention problems were caused by untreated depression rather than ADHD. 'Also, ADHD is often accompanied by other mental disorders like autistic spectrum disorder, complex trauma, anxiety and depression.'
The Independent
11-03-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Prescriptions for ADHD drugs jump 18% year-on-year, figures show
Prescriptions for drugs to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have jumped 18% year-on-year since the pandemic, research suggests. Experts said increasing awareness of ADHD, including via social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, is likely to have encouraged more people to seek diagnosis and treatment for the condition. However, they warned that 'misinformation on these platforms may lead to misconceptions about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment'. Another reason behind the rise could be the 'strong association between the impact of the (Covid) pandemic and the worsening of ADHD symptoms', they said. The new study, from experts at Aston University and the University of Huddersfield, calculated that ADHD prescriptions in England 'increased significantly' from 25.17 items per 1,000 population in 2019/20 (before Covid) to 41.55 items in 2023/24, with an average annual increase of 18% nationally. The team looked at English prescribing data for the five currently licensed ADHD drugs at national, regional, and NHS integrated care board (ICB) levels. The drugs were three stimulants (methylphenidate which has brand names such as Ritalin, Concerta and Delmosart; dexamfetamine, lisdexamfetamine) and two non-stimulants (atomoxetine and guanfacine). The study found that methylphenidate remained the most prescribed medication while lisdexamfetamine showed the highest growth rate (55% annually). Published in the journal BMJ Mental Health, the study said there is an upward trend in ADHD prescription items in all seven regions of England. 'However, there were variations in prescription trends across different regions, with an average yearly increase ranging from 13% in the North East and Yorkshire region to 28% in the London region. The second-highest change in prescriptions per year was noted in South East England (19.37%).' Regarding the drugs, the experts said use of ADHD medicines in children and adults is supported by 'substantial evidence', including that they improve quality of life and ability, and cut substance misuse. They also said 'the role of medications becomes more important in the absence or lack of availability of alternative treatment options, such as psychological or behavioural therapy.' On what is driving the rise, the researchers said: 'Increased public and professional awareness, partly driven by social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, has likely encouraged more people to seek assessment, diagnosis and treatment. 'Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become new hubs for ADHD campaigns, with thousands of people sharing their experiences, coping strategies and journey to diagnosis. 'While social media has been instrumental in spreading ADHD awareness, it is crucial to approach the information with caution, as the accuracy and reliability of the content can vary significantly. 'Misinformation on these platforms may lead to misconceptions about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.' The team called for more research on 'vetting and moderating ADHD-related information on social media' to ensure awareness efforts 'do not inadvertently spread misinformation'. They added: 'Additionally, the role of professional diagnosis and treatment should be emphasised, balancing the role of social media with evidence-based practices.' On the pandemic, the experts said it has 'dramatically altered daily routines' such as through online or hybrid teaching and work, and increased stress levels for many people. These changes 'may have exacerbated ADHD symptoms in some people, making those symptoms more noticeable and prompting individuals to seek diagnosis and treatment.' More research is needed to work out whether these trends 'represent a temporary shift or a more permanent change in ADHD prescriptions'. Until now, around 5% (700,000) of UK children and about 3–4% of adults are thought to have had ADHD but the new research suggests a rise. People with ADHD are known to suffer inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, and may struggle to concentrate on a given task, or suffer extreme fidgeting. Dr Ulrich Muller-Sedgwick, ADHD champion at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said people with ADHD need access to timely and effective assessment, 'followed by the appropriate treatment'. He added: 'We've seen a significant increase in the number of people coming forward for ADHD support in recent years. 'There are many reasons for this, including improved recognition of ADHD in women, greater public awareness and the impacts of the pandemic which exacerbated many people's symptoms. 'The right diagnosis and care, including medication and reasonable adjustments, can greatly benefit people's health and support them to reach their full potential at school, university or work. 'We know that expanding ADHD services through targeted investment would help ensure people receive the vital care they need.' Dr Paul Keedwell, a consultant psychiatrist and neurodiversity specialist, said: 'We know that the rate of diagnosis in children and adolescents was fairly level between 2020 and 2023, but there was a big increase in adult ADHD diagnoses, likely due to improved awareness (especially in women), de-stigmatisation and an increased availability of assessments, especially in the private sector. 'There could also be an impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, including the direct neurological effect of the virus and a catch-up in assessments since the lockdown. Time will tell if this is a blip or a long-term trend. 'Finally, there could be a degree of overdiagnosing. Although there is no clear evidence for this, it is important that all individuals receive a holistic assessment with a psychiatrist. 'Many other mental health conditions can cause ADHD-like symptoms. 'For example, my own clinical work has revealed many cases where inattention problems were caused by untreated depression rather than ADHD. 'Also, ADHD is often accompanied by other mental disorders like autistic spectrum disorder, complex trauma, anxiety and depression.'
