A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has highlighted a significant rise in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses among U.S. children, marking it as an expanding public health concern. The study revealed that approximately 1 in 9 children, or about 7 million, were diagnosed with ADHD in 2022. This represents an increase of 1 million children since 2016, indicating a substantial rise in the rate of diagnosis over a relatively short period. 

For members of the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP), this trend carries profound implications. Therapeutic schools and programs, which serve children with various behavioral and mental health challenges, will likely see an increase in the number of children diagnosed with ADHD. This rise necessitates that NATSAP members stay informed about the latest diagnostic criteria, treatment protocols, and supportive strategies to effectively address the needs of this growing population. Additionally, the increase in diagnoses may lead to higher demand for specialized therapeutic interventions and educational accommodations tailored to children with ADHD.

The study also highlighted potential contributing factors to this rise, including heightened public awareness and increased care-seeking behavior, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Pandemic-related stressors such as illness, death, changes in parental work and schooling, and decreased social interactions may have exacerbated symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity in children. NATSAP members need to consider these contextual factors when designing and implementing their therapeutic programs. Understanding the broader environmental and psychological stressors that contribute to ADHD symptoms can help therapeutic schools and programs provide more holistic and effective support to their students.

Furthermore, the study revealed shifts in the demographics of those diagnosed with ADHD, with notable increases in diagnoses among girls and teens aged 10 to 19. This trend underscores the importance of gender-sensitive approaches in therapeutic settings. Historically, boys have been diagnosed with ADHD at higher rates than girls, but the growing recognition of ADHD in girls calls for a reevaluation of diagnostic and treatment approaches that account for gender differences in symptom presentation and needs. NATSAP members must be prepared to offer support that is responsive to these evolving trends, ensuring that all children, regardless of gender, receive appropriate care.

In summary, the CDC's findings highlight the critical need for NATSAP members to stay abreast of current ADHD trends and to adapt their practices to meet the changing landscape of diagnoses. By doing so, therapeutic schools and programs can better serve the increasing number of children with ADHD, providing them with the support and resources necessary to thrive. This commitment to continuous learning and adaptation will ensure that NATSAP members remain at the forefront of therapeutic care for children and adolescents with ADHD.