With many failing to see the link between side effects such as unstable relationships with friends, signs of depression, and maladaptive behavior in school and ADHD itself, the group argues many children are left untreated.
(Image: KACAP)
SEOUL, April 6 (Korea Bizwire) — A group of experts have urged the public to take ADHD more seriously, after a study showed that that just over 1 in 10 adolescent patients seek medical treatment.
Speaking to the press on Thursday, the Korean Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry said that treatment rates among adolescents aged between 15 and 19 stood at 13.5 percent, nearly half of the figure among those aged between 5 and 14, citing data from the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service.
The group said most adolescents with ADHD go untreated despite 7 in 10 children entering their late teen years with the disorder, as many see the medical condition as common behavior among young people going through puberty.
With many failing to see the link between side effects such as unstable relationships with friends, signs of depression, and maladaptive behavior in school and ADHD itself, the group argues many children are left untreated.
“ADHD is a neuropsychiatric disorder that can last a lifetime from early childhood to adulthood, which requires consistent treatment. Adolescents in particular need attention and treatment as they go through a transition period from childhood to adulthood during which their personality and human relationships are formed,” said Kim Bong-seok, the director of the group.
Kim also said young people diagnosed with ADHD are at higher risk of depressive disorder, anxiety and conduct disorder, and warned of the social consequences of adolescent patients left unattended.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
