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Long considered a childhood disorder, attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) nevertheless persists into adulthood, affecting nearly 3% of this population. In this context, American researchers have looked into ways to relieve symptoms in adults. Their study confirms a fact often reported by patients: some seem to manage their symptoms very well by occupying their schedule, in particular by adapting to situations of intense stress.
In 2022, psychologist Maggie Sibley, professor of psychiatry at the University of Washington, began a study to evaluate the possibility of remission of ADHD in adults. Using data from the National Institute of Mental Health, Sibley examined a set of 483 ADHD patients from the United States and Canada. These participants were followed over a period of 16 years, revealing a fluctuating pattern of ADHD. The majority of patients appeared to recover temporarily, but their symptoms would later return.
Faced with these observations, Sibley took a deeper look at the circumstances that potentially allow adults with ADHD to alleviate their symptoms. In the resulting new study, she notably reanalyzed the data obtained in her previous research from another angle. The results, published in the Journal Of Clinical Psychiatryindicate that almost 75% of participants observed fluctuations in their symptoms. Sibley classified participants into three groups: those who experienced temporary complete remission, those who experienced partial remissions, and those whose symptoms remained stable.
Unexpected, but encouraging, conclusions
Before this study, Sibley hypothesized that reducing stress could alleviate ADHD symptoms, regardless of age. However, the results showed the opposite: remission seemed more likely when patients took on more responsibilities. Indeed, participants in the first group often experienced complete remissions while performing stressful tasks.
« People with ADHD may perform better when challenged “, she told the Guardian. This observation is shared by many patients, including Abby Balderson, 44, who was diagnosed in childhood. She told the New York Times: “ When my schedule is busiest and most predictable, I manage my ADHD better “. Sophie Didier, 24, diagnosed in high school, also noted an improvement by maintaining a busy schedule.
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While these findings are promising, Arij Alarachi, a psychology doctoral student at McMaster University, points out that ADHD can react differently depending on the circumstances. Additional research will be needed to fully understand these dynamics. Regardless, Sibley emphasizes the importance of structured routines to reduce symptoms: “
By adopting good practices, you can optimize your chances of controlling your ADHD », she concludes.
