ADHD Statistics in Maryland

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder affecting both children and adults. Understanding its prevalence is crucial for allocating public health resources and ensuring access to care. In Maryland, the rate of ADHD diagnosis in children is slightly higher than the national average, ranking the state 15th for prevalence nationwide^[11]. Data shows that nationally, approximately 7.1 million children have received an ADHD diagnosis at some point in their lives^[12], while about 15.5 million adults report a current diagnosis^[13]. The following statistics provide a detailed look at the prevalence rates across different populations in Maryland and the United States.

The prevalence of ADHD is not uniform across all populations. Significant disparities exist based on age, gender, geography, race, and socioeconomic status. In Maryland and across the U.S., boys are diagnosed more frequently than girls, and adolescents show higher rates than younger children^[14]. Socioeconomic factors also play a critical role, with financial stress and limited healthcare access influencing diagnosis rates^[8]. These differences highlight the need for equitable access to diagnostic services and culturally competent care.

ADHD rarely exists in isolation. A vast majority of individuals, particularly children, diagnosed with ADHD also have at least one other mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder. These co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety and conduct problems, can complicate diagnosis and require a more comprehensive treatment approach. In Maryland, ADHD frequently co-occurs with anxiety disorders and major depressive disorder, making integrated care essential for effective management^[3]. Recognizing and treating these concurrent disorders is vital for improving long-term outcomes.

Effective management of ADHD typically involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamines are considered first-line treatments due to their proven efficacy^[17]. However, a concerning number of individuals diagnosed with ADHD do not receive any form of treatment. This treatment gap highlights ongoing challenges in access to care, affordability, and stigma. While Maryland performs relatively well in providing mental health treatment to adolescents, significant portions of the population, especially adults, remain untreated.

Despite relatively high rates of insurance coverage for mental health in Maryland (85% vs. 80% nationally)^[21], significant barriers to care persist. The state has a lower-than-average number of mental health providers, and several counties are designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs)^[5]. This is particularly acute in rural regions, where nearly one-third of children may not receive any intervention^[6]. These structural challenges are compounded by long waiting lists, stigma, and recent nationwide medication shortages.

Recent nationwide shortages of stimulant medications have severely impacted patients. This supply chain issue disrupts treatment continuity and creates significant stress for individuals and families managing ADHD. In response to access challenges, telehealth has become an increasingly important tool. Nearly half of adults with ADHD have used telehealth services, with a significant portion using it to obtain prescriptions, especially since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic^[9]. Policy experts recommend expanding telehealth to further reduce geographic barriers to care^[6].

Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable increase in ADHD diagnoses, particularly among children in Maryland. However, many researchers believe this trend does not represent a true rise in the disorder's prevalence. Instead, the increase is likely attributable to factors such as changes in the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, improved screening methods, reduced stigma, and greater public awareness^[7]. High-quality studies using consistent clinical criteria show that the underlying prevalence of ADHD has remained relatively stable^[10]. The chart below illustrates the upward trend in diagnosis rates among children in Maryland.

Untreated or poorly managed ADHD can have significant consequences for individuals and society. These challenges can translate into increased emergency room visits, lower workforce productivity, and higher public health expenditures^[15]. While ADHD is a manageable condition, access to timely and effective care is critical to mitigating these broader impacts. On a positive note, Maryland's suicide rate is lower than the national average, though mental health remains a key public health priority.