From the Guidelines
The World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for ADHD are not explicitly outlined in the provided evidence, however, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria are provided, which require a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning, as seen in the study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2024 1.
Key Diagnostic Criteria
The diagnostic criteria for ADHD according to the DSM-5, as mentioned in the study 1, include:
- An ongoing pattern of inattentive and/or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms—at least 6 months
- Multiple inattentive and/or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms—5 or more (for age 17 years; 6 or more are required for age <17 years)
- Several inattentive and/or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms with an onset before the age of 12 years
- Several inattentive and/or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms that are present in 2 or more settings (e.g., home, work)
- Evidence that inattentive and/or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms interfere with or reduce the quality of functioning (e.g., interpersonal, occupational)
Inattention and Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms
The study 1 lists the following symptoms:
- Inattentive symptoms:
- Poor attention to detail
- Difficulty concentrating or sustaining attention on tasks
- Seems preoccupied, difficulty in shifting focus even when spoken to directly
- Difficulty with completing tasks (gets distracted/side-tracked)
- Organizational challenges (e.g., resulting in chronic lateness—for appointments or deadlines, messiness, disorganized work)
- Reluctance to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (e.g., preparing reports, reviewing lengthy papers)
- Difficulty keeping track of personal belongings/items required for task completion
- Easily distracted
- Frequently forgetful
- Hyperactive-impulsive symptoms:
- Frequent fidgeting (e.g., tapping a desk)
- Finds it difficult to sit still for prolonged periods
- Feeling of inner restlessness or agitation
- Often loud and disruptive
- Always on the go, difficult for others to keep up
- Often talks excessively
- Frequently interrupts others (difficulty restraining themselves from sharing their perspectives or waiting their turn in conversation)
- Highly impatient (e.g., difficulty waiting in line)
- Often intrudes into others’ activities (e.g., may take over what others are doing)
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of ADHD should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's symptoms, medical history, and functional impairment, as outlined in the study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2024 1.
From the Research
WHO Criteria for ADHD
The World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, the studies mention the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria for adult ADHD 2.
Diagnostic Criteria
The DSM-5 criteria for ADHD include:
- A persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development 2
- Symptoms must be present in two or more settings (e.g., home, school, work) 2
- Symptoms must have been present prior to age 12 years 2
- Symptoms must have been present for at least 6 months 2
Treatment Options
Treatment options for ADHD include:
- Pharmacotherapy, such as methylphenidate and atomoxetine 3, 4, 5
- Psychosocial treatments, such as behavioral therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy 6, 4
- Combination of pharmacotherapy and psychosocial treatments 6, 4
Key Findings
Key findings from the studies include:
- Methylphenidate and atomoxetine are effective in reducing core symptoms of ADHD 3, 4, 5
- Psychosocial treatments can improve ADHD symptoms, emotional and behavioral problems, and academic and organizational skills 6, 4
- Combination of pharmacotherapy and psychosocial treatments may be more effective than either treatment alone 6, 4