Bridging the Gaps: Inclusive ADHD Research for a Diverse World

Professor Amanda Kirby, CEO of Do-IT Solutions., Campaigner for Neurodiversity, Medic, Knowledge Translator, researcher.

Originally published as part of The Neurodiversity 101 LinkedIn Newsletter.

Bridging the Gaps: Inclusive ADHD Research for a Diverse World

A recent and important study (January 2025) (https://lnkd.in/eEqXYxHm) explored how well treatments work for adults with ADHD, comparing medications, psychological therapies, and other approaches. It reviewed 113 studies involving 1000s people.

Who was missing in these studies?

This is key… as we also need to consider who was not included in these studies so we don’t draw conclusions on a sample that is not representative of the people in society; who did not get a diagnosis; who could not get a diagnosis; who was not ADHD enough?

We also need to consider those who has ADHD+

DCD/Dyspraxia

and / or ASC

and /or DLD

and/ or Dyslexia

and /or Traumatic Brain Injury – in child or adulthood

We also need to consider if there was a balance of people who were

Female

Trans

Lower SES status/poor

Cultural mix – interesting when we compare scoring in rating scales – people rate differently their challenges in different countries.

Been out of systems e.g. homeless, in justice settings, in care/care experiences

Also with substance misuse challenges/mental illness

Traumatic experiences in the past and present

Key findings from the study

Use of Stimulants(e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamines) are the most effective for improving ADHD symptoms in the short term (around 12 weeks). They are generally well-accepted by users. Atomoxetine is effective but less well-tolerated due to side effects. There’s limited evidence on the long-term impact of medications or their effects on quality of life.

Non-Medication Treatments:Therapies such as CBT, neurofeedback, and relaxation techniques show some benefits, but results vary depending on whether individuals or clinicians rate the symptoms.More research is needed to clarify the long-term effectiveness of these approaches.

Challenges with Long-Term Outcomes:Few studies explore how treatments work beyond 12 weeks, leaving gaps in understanding long-term benefits and risks.Stimulants, while effective, may carry risks like high blood pressure over time, particularly at higher doses.

Quality of Life and Functioning:Important that treatments have limited impact on improving quality of life, highlighting that there is not one single solution.Executive functioning challenges remain a significant unmet need. Supporting Undiagnosed Adults Many adults with ADHD remain undiagnosed, often due to stigma, lack of awareness, or barriers to diagnosis. For these individuals, the challenges of ADHD—difficulty focusing, emotional regulation, and executive functioning—can impact every aspect of life.

This study highlights key areas to focus on:

1. Raising Awareness: Educate workplaces, healthcare providers, and the public about ADHD symptoms in adults, particularly how they may differ from childhood presentations.Reduce stigma around seeking support or assessment.

2. Practical Strategies:Provide accessible tools for aiding time, organisation, and emotional regulation, including those without a diagnosis. Workplace adjustments /coaching can make a huge difference.

3. Screening Opportunities: Introduce ND screening in workplaces, educational institutions, and primary care to identify individuals who might benefit from further assessment.. Streamline pathways to diagnosis for those with high needs. Ensure follow-up support.

4. Long-Term Foci: Encourage the use of non-medication strategies like CBT ( but this needs to be adapted form for different ND traits ).Teach relaxation techniques; encourage regular exercise to aid sleep, provide sleep guidance, which may benefit those who cannot access or choose not to pursue medication.

Support individuals in building routines and self-awareness to improve day-to-day functioning. By focusing on practical tools such as those aiding executive functions and emotional wellbeing, along with early identification we can better support undiagnosed individuals with ADHD/ND.

What do we need to learn more about?

The need to identify ‘super’ at risk groups and start upstream

Medicines are never THE answer but helps some people in the short term

Interventions need to be person centred and take into context the person’s environment

We need to consider ND as a spectrum and not think of ADHD in isolation

A diagnosis is not the end of the story… we need longer term support

Support can start before a diagnosis too..

Lived experiences of those at the margins of society is essential to consider

ADHD never comes alone!

Blog Author

I am Amanda Kirby, CEO of Do-IT Solutions a tech-for-good company that delivers thought provoking consultancy and neuroinclusive guidance and training. We have developed cutting edge web-based screening tools that have helped 10s of 1000s of people. We strive to deliver person-centered solutions relating to neurodiversity and wellbeing.

I am a mixed bag of experiences and skills, an odd ball… and have 25+ years of working in the field of neurodiversity.

I am a medical doctor, Professor, and have a Ph.D. in the field of neurodiversity; parent and grandparent to neurodivergent wonderful kids and am neurodivergent myself.

Theo Smith and I wrote the UK award-winning book Neurodiversity at Work Drive Innovation, Performance, and Productivity with a Neurodiverse Workforce. My 10th book came out called Neurodiversity and Education in March this year. Excitingly, Theo and I have another book coming out next year!