ADHD in the News 2026-05-14
Here’s What Psychiatrists Mean When They Say You Have A.D.H.D. (Opinion)
My patients often ask if I think they have a particular psychiatric diagnosis, such as bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or autism. The way they ask suggests they believe that as their psychiatrist, I can identify hidden attributes in their brains, much in the same way one of my physician colleagues might diagnose a patient with a genetic mutation or bacterial infection.
Speeding up diagnoses
New research suggests a simple urine test could help spot conditions including bipolar disorder, ADHD and anorexia much sooner, easing pressure on health services where diagnoses can currently take months – even years.
This High Schooler Developed an A.I. Tool to Diagnose Autism and ADHD Using the Retina
Edward Kang’s RetinaMind analyzes patients’ retinal images and accurately diagnoses neurodevelopmental disorders 89 percent of the time
New Jerseyans who take ADHD meds face a return to pre-pandemic prescription rules
New Jerseyans who take medications for attention deficit disorders will soon face a return to pre-pandemic rules for getting prescriptions renewed.
Using real-time brain signals to predict and prevent attention lapses in kids
Key study findings: In children with epilepsy, researchers used machine learning and intracranial recordings to discover a signal that predicted attention lapses. Stimulating the brain at precise moments helped children keep their focus despite difficult tasks. A non-invasive pulse to that same target spot also significantly improved reaction time and accuracy.
Pediatric Concussion Not Linked to Mental Illness in First Year Afterward
Preinjury psychiatric disorders are more likely to increase the risk of new psychiatric disorders within a year of mild traumatic brain injury in children.
ADHD Linked to Increased Risk for Suicide Attempts in Adolescents
Key point: While comorbidities such as depression and bipolar disorder increased risk for suicide, ADHD remained a distinct predictor for suicidal behavior in youths, underscoring the need for suicide attempt assessments for youths with ADHD.
Study explores screen time and self regulation in neurodiverse children
A new study that set out to assess screen time and the relationship to self regulation in a real-world sample of children revealed that children aged four to 16 years are far exceeding recommended daily screen time guidelines.
A two-way street: The overlapping world of premenstrual disorders and mental health conditions
Premenstrual disorders and psychiatric conditions often seem to flock together, and researchers now have data to make a case for it. A large Swedish study involving over 3 million women revealed a striking two-way path between premenstrual disorders (PMDs)—premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS)—and common mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
Adult ADHD care may need rethink as symptom severity, not medication alone, drives deficits
ADHD is usually associated with being careless, impulsive and having difficulty concentrating. New research focused on ADHD in adults indicates a greater number of cognitive and motor symptoms, and that the effects of medication vary depending on the severity of symptoms. The results could pave the way for more personalized care and better day-to-day support. The research is published in the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology.
What drives adult ADHD symptoms? Study points to executive function over environment
A new study suggests that adult-diagnosed ADHD may not be driven by distinct environmental pathways, with executive function emerging as the clearest link to symptom severity across age-of-diagnosis groups.
Listening to Music While Studying Associated With Improved GPA in Students With ADHD
Key point: Music listening while studying was significantly associated with a higher-grade point average among college students with ADHD, but no association in the broader student population, underscoring the need for further research and investigation.
Childhood ADHD traits linked to midlife distress, with societal exclusion playing a major role
A recent study published in the journal Nature Mental Health suggests that children exhibiting high levels of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder traits are more likely to experience psychological distress up into middle age. The research provides evidence that this long-term mental health burden is partly driven by societal exclusion. Systemic barriers, such as limited access to healthcare, social support, and financial stability, seem to play a major role in this process.
Aussies use cocaine to self-treat ADHD
Specialists say the trend is fuelling a concerning surge in addiction.