New Guidance on Adult ADHD: What the Latest Clinical Review Covers

The journal article, shared by the New England Journal of Medicine on social media, addresses adult attention deficit–hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) — a condition where persistent difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity affect daily life. The piece is aimed at clinicians rather than patients, but its publication signals renewed medical attention to a condition that has historically been under-recognised in adults.

The article places particular weight on coexisting conditions — meaning mental health or physical health problems that appear alongside ADHD. These might include anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders, and the guidance suggests clinicians should actively assess for them rather than treating ADHD in isolation.

Treatment, according to the journal, should combine medication with psychosocial support. That means drug-based approaches — such as stimulant or non-stimulant medicines — working alongside talking therapies or structured behavioural strategies, rather than either approach alone.

The full article is available through the New England Journal of Medicine’s own platform.

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If you’re concerned about symptoms of ADHD, speak to your GP in the first instance. NHS 111 can also advise on next steps if you’re unsure whether to seek a referral. For mental health support, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123.

Key information

• ADHD in adults can include difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and acting impulsively — symptoms that can be assessed by a GP or specialist
• NHS 111 (call 111 or visit the NHS website) can help you find the right service if you’re unsure where to start
• Samaritans: 116 123, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Your GP is the right first contact for a referral to adult ADHD assessment services