Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has become one of the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorders in recent years, with an estimated global prevalence of 2.5% in adults and 5% in children. In the United States, prevalence among individuals between the ages of 4 and 17 years was estimated to be 10% as of 2016. The most recent data available on the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that the prevalence of ADHD is particularly high among children between the ages of 12 and 17 years (13%), and that prevalence is lower among children within lower age ranges: 2% for 3-5 year-olds and 10% for 6-11 year-olds.

The symptoms for ADHD are not uniform across all patients, and there is a growing awareness that adults often have more subtle symptoms than children. In the past, ADHD was typically conceptualized as a disorder affecting adolescents and characterized by an inability to keep still or pay attention in class. In more recent years, this conceptualization has evolved to include individuals of all ages who have difficulties managing time, staying on task, and controlling impulses. Additionally, clinicians have become more astute at recognizing subtle symptoms, which may not be on display in the examining room or classroom but are discernible on the patient’s report cards or (for adults) due to their inability to manage time effectively, remain steadily employed, or maintain healthy relationships. ADHD also is associated with higher incidences of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, and sleep problems like........

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