Most adults with ADHD in Europe are untreated, an expert working in this area has claimed.

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a behavioural disorder, the main symptoms of which include inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Those affected show poor concentration, are often unable to complete tasks, day dream a lot, are distracted easily, act without thinking and can suffer temper tantrums.

Hyperactive symptoms can include restlessness and not being able to remain seated, such as during meals. In adults, this can manifest itself through excessive talking and feelings of being overwhelmed.

Earlier this year, Prof Michael Fitzgerald, a professor of child psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin, said that the condition is ‘massively underdiagnosed' among adults (see more here). Now, a German expert in the field has said that the data available suggests that ‘most adults with ADHD in Europe are untreated'.

According to Dr Esther Sobanski of the Central Institute of Mental Health in Mannheim, Germany, up to two-thirds of children with ADHD will see the condition persist into adulthood, yet only a very small number of adults ever receive a formal diagnosis and treatment.

Research indicates that 3-4% of adults have the condition, yet in contrast to this prevalence rate, ‘diagnostic prevalence is below 0.5%, indicating that a majority of cases go undiagnosed and untreated', she explained.

Dr Sobanski pointed out that ADHD can have a major effect on the day-to-day lives of adults, affecting their relationships, parenting abilities and work performance. Those with ADHD also appear to be more prone to accidents and dangerous driving habits, such as speeding.

"In addition to ADHD core symptoms, patients often experience associated symptoms like emotional dysregulation, sleep disturbances or low self-esteem, as well as suffering from comorbid disorders, particularly depressive episodes, substance use and anxiety disorders," she noted.

Current guidelines suggest that treatment should involve a multidisciplinary approach, including psychotherapy, occupational rehabilitation and the use of medication. However, Dr Sobanski pointed out that while medication can have a big impact on ADHD symptoms, they are often not used by adults.

"New pharmacological treatment approaches not only target ADHD core symptoms but also co-morbid psychiatric disorders like alcohol use disorders or social phobia. However, in the European Union only two medications are approved for de novo use in adult ADHD," she explained.

Dr Sobanski made her comments at the 26th Congress of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology in Barcelona.