Adult ADHD screening in New York

Despite wide recognition as a children’s disorder, ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) affects millions of adults who are undiagnosed and untreated. New York University School of Medicine Adult ADHD program will offer adults education and self-screening of ADHD symptoms at the New York Helmsley hotel (42nd Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues), on Friday, May 7, 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

“ADHD is a significant public health concern that affects nearly eight million Americans, but the vast majority – 85 percent -- are unrecognized and untreated,” said Lenard Adler, M.D., director of the Adult ADHD program, and associate professor of clinical psychiatry and neurology at the NYU School of Medicine.

At the event, attendees will be offered the opportunity to take the Adult ADHD Self Report Scale (ASRS v. 1.1), a self-screening instrument designed to reveal the likelihood of adult ADHD and determine whether further evaluation is needed. The ASRS was developed by Dr. Adler and other ADHD experts in conjunction with the World Health Organization. Medical personnel will be available to discuss the results of the screening and provide appropriate referrals for full diagnostic evaluations and treatment. Additionally, attendees will be able to learn more about adult ADHD through live information sessions and question-and-answer periods. Those who screen positive for the likelihood of ADHD may choose to join the NYU School of Medicine Combined Adult ADHD Program Research Registry. Treatment will not be provided.

Until the 1970s, ADHD was believed to be a childhood disorder that people outgrow. However, scientists now know that while hyperactivity may diminish, inattentiveness and impulsivity can persist into adulthood. The impairments from untreated adult ADHD are significant. Adults with untreated ADHD are more likely to be separated or divorced. They are also more likely to change jobs or be fired more frequently, and to under-perform on the job. Further, they are at increased risk for substance abuse and motor vehicle accidents. With proper diagnosis and treatment, the symptoms of ADHD can be substantially decreased, and quality of life can be improved.

The Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology Adult ADHD Program offers state-of-the art multi-disciplinary treatment approaches, including comprehensive diagnostic examinations, medication management, neuropsychological testing, cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy. The program provides a special outreach to adults with ADHD - a unique program in the New York metropolitan area. Several research studies on ADHD are taking place in the Adult ADHD Program with the latest investigational medications and other treatments. The clinical program can be reached at 212-263-3580, and the research program at 212-951-6888 or [email protected]. Adults interested in the self-screening may call 212-686-7500, extension 7070 or visit www.med.nyu.edu/Psych/training/adhdday.html for further information.