ADHD medication prescriptions surge in Canada: What’s driving the increase?

The rise in prescriptions

Prescriptions for ADHD medication have increased significantly across Canada, with the number of Canadians filling prescriptions for psychostimulants jumping 67.7% between 2019 and 2023, according to a report by CBC News.

Demographics most affected:

• Women aged 18-24: Increase from 4.6% to 8.6%
• Women aged 25-44: Increase from 3% to 6.4%

A complex diagnosis process

ADHD diagnosis in adults often requires thorough evaluation, including:

• Reviewing childhood symptoms — ADHD symptoms must be evident from an early age, which complicates adult diagnosis.
• High demand but low supply — Family doctors often lack training in diagnosing adult ADHD, leading some patients to private clinics where diagnosis costs can start at $2,300, claims the CBC.

Factors fueling the rise

Several influences may contribute to the increase in adults seeking ADHD treatment:

• Pandemic shift: Many adults found it difficult to adapt to new work environments.
• Social media: Increased awareness through online platforms has led more individuals to recognize symptoms associated with ADHD.

Challenges in accessing treatment

The rising demand for ADHD diagnoses has exposed gaps in the healthcare system, especially for adults:

• Family doctors often lack ADHD-specific training.
• Private clinics are costly, and many patients can’t afford testing.

A call for better diagnostic standards

Experts, including Dr. Nikola Grujich of Toronto’s Sunnybrook Hospital, want to see improved ADHD training for family doctors and more support for treatment choices beyond medication alone.

Bottom line: More Canadians are looking for answers about ADHD, increasing the need for accessible diagnosis options and proper treatments.

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If you’re navigating the challenges of ADHD in the workplace and considering disability benefits, our ADHD Disability Benefits page offers essential information on your rights and options. Applying for short-term or long-term disability due to ADHD can be difficult, and many claims are denied.

Our team at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help if your claim is rejected, guiding you through appeals and advocating for the benefits you deserve so you can focus on your health and well-being. Get a free consultation with a disability lawyer today.