New Expert White Paper recommends framework for action to tackle impact of ADHD on individuals, families and society

By EU Reporter correspondent

A new Expert White Paper, ADHD: Making the Invisible Visible, was
today presented to policymakers and key stakeholders by a multidisciplinary group of experts.
This Expert White Paper project was initiated, facilitated and funded by Shire AG and supported by the
European Brain Council (EBC) and GAMIAN-Europe (Global Alliance of Mental Illness Advocacy
Networks). Medical writing support was provided by APCO Worldwide and Complete Medical
Communications, and funded by Shire AG.
The Expert White Paper, based on patient research and independent expert opinion, demonstrates the
substantial impact Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can have on an individual from
childhood into adulthood, in addition to the broader impact on families, welfare systems and national
budgets. ADHD: Making the Invisible Visible was launched by co-authors Dr Susan Young, Dr Michael
Fitzgerald, and Dr Maarten J Postma.
The findings of the Expert White Paper are supported by MEP, Nessa Childers, co-chair of the
European Parliament Interest Group on Mental Health: “Mental health problems such as ADHD are
unfortunately becoming far less of a priority on the political agenda, particularly due to the current
economic crisis resulting in widespread cutbacks in resources. ADHD is one of the most neglected
and misunderstood psychiatric conditions in Europe. Very few people affected by ADHD receive
appropriate diagnosis and support, which leads to a significant impact on quality of life and society. I
am pleased that this Expert White Paper lays out sensible and practical recommendations to help
ensure better recognition and management of ADHD by all relevant stakeholders working in
healthcare, schools, the criminal justice system and the workplace.”
ADHD affects 1 in 20 children and adolescents in Europe1 and, in many cases, persists into
adulthood.2 The Paper highlights that adolescents with a history of childhood ADHD tend to
experience greater peer rejection and have fewer close friendships3 and that children with ADHD are
more likely to be bullied than their peers.4
Academic outcomes are also highlighted as a key impact
area for people with ADHD if not managed effectively, and problems at school may evolve into
difficulties finding and maintaining stable employment.5-7
“This Expert White Paper provides clear evidence that ADHD can have a marked impact on selfesteem,
social functioning and academic outcomes,” said Dr Mary Baker, President of the
European Brain Council. “It also shows that timely and effective management can improve quality of
life and, with appropriate support, there is potential for people with ADHD to lead fulfilled and
successful lives. We want to give everyone with ADHD this opportunity.”
The Paper also highlights the broader psychological impact of ADHD, particularly on parents who may
also be affected and can experience depression, anxiety and stress.8,9 ADHD can also have a negative
and pervasive impact, with wide-ranging associated costs in terms of healthcare or other services and
long-term consequences for multiple aspects of life.10
The Expert White Paper sets out five clear, workable recommendations (including specific goals and a
list of suggested actions) to help tackle the impact of ADHD on individuals, families and society:
1. Increase informed awareness of ADHD
2. Improve access to early and accurate diagnosis of ADHD, especially via the introduction of
early identification and intervention programmes in different policy areas.
3. Improve access to ADHD treatment and develop a multidisciplinary patient-centred approach
to ADHD care and support
4. Involve and support patient organisations
5. Encourage a patient-centred research agenda on ADHD, through more quantitative and
qualitative research and through more involvement of allied stakeholders in developing
priorities for future research.
“This Expert White Paper not only confirms the impact of ADHD, but most importantly presents
solutions to address the societal impact, costs and long-term outcomes for affected individuals,” said
Pedro Montellano, President of GAMIAN-Europe. “These concrete, expert-informed
recommendations provide policy makers with a chance to improve the lives of those affected by
ADHD and reduce the cost on national welfare systems across Europe. By working together we can
make a real difference.”

Anna van Densky

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