“ADHD isn’t an excuse for bad behaviour” says TikTok Star Lilly Morris after ADHD diagnoses soar.
Since 2020, the number of adults seeking an ADHD diagnosis has increased by 400% and many believe that social media platform, TikTok, has played a part in that.
ADHD awareness has soared in the UK with TikTok having 25 billion views on videos with the hashtag ADHD.
There is a growing phenomenon where individuals believe they may have the disorder due to the vast amount of content showcasing common ADHD symptoms published online.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals’ ability to concentrate, control impulses and manage their behaviour. It can make work life as well as home life just that extra bit more difficult.
Common symptoms of ADHD are a difficulty in focusing, forgetfulness and impulsivity, however, these symptoms can be indicative of other things such as stress or fatigue. It’s a complex condition that requires a thorough evaluation from professionals.
Many people are finding themselves identifying with the portrayed behaviours seeking an unprecedented number of individuals to try and get a professional diagnosis.
The social media videos have a largely positive impact in spreading awareness for ADHD, helping to build a community, and destigmatising it.
However, there is also the possibility that people will begin self-diagnosing themselves.
Lilly Morris from Manchester was diagnosed with ADHD by the NHS five years ago. She says that TikTok videos are creating “false narratives” about the way people with ADHD function. She also says that this content is “making ADHD to be a general thing when it isn’t. People are using it to excuse their bad behaviour, and it’s not fair.”
She did add however that she thinks that “social media is helping people to realise some of their traits are common with ADHD. Specifically in women and girls as the traits are very different.”
The soaring demand for ADHD assessments has led to long waiting times. At the Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, they say there are “lengthy waiting times” due to a “demand for our service” for ADHD diagnoses.
Freya Hazell is seeking a diagnosis and is currently on the waiting list, she says that she “has no idea how long I have to wait for an assessment, it’s already been two years.” She added that she’s wanting a diagnosis for “an explanation of why I do things the way I do.”