ADHD can significantly limit upward social mobility. In other words, ADHD prevents many people from achieving the occupational, social, and academic success needed to advance in their life and community. Cost, time off work, time away from family care, and lack of resources often prevent people from getting the best possible support for their ADHD.
In fact, a survey conducted by Dr. Joseph Biederman, Chief Researcher of Adult ADHD at Massachusetts General Hospital, found that adults with ADHD were 25% less likely to have a full time job, are less likely to meet academic milestones, and earn lower annual income than those without ADHD. This lack of productivity leads to a massive $100 billion(approx.) loss in the U.S. economy.
Factors leading to a $100 billion dollar deficit should be addressed with a sense of urgency. If we apply this phenomenon to red hot places like the Silicon Valley, the loss may likely be even more concentrated. This topic will be addressed in a future study by the Adult ADHD Treatment Research Project. The study will be looking at how many failed start ups have leadership and founders with adult ADHD.
At Beyond Focused, we have recognized this critical issue and have made our video series Learn to Thrive with Adult ADHD available for free to those in need through the Focus Within Reach program. In order to deliver this service in an efficient and effective way, we actively partner with community groups and non-profits. If your agency is interested in helping get this powerful tool in the hands of those who need it, free of charge, please click here to contact us.
We are also calling on other experts in the field to make strides to help address this issue. After all, what affects one of us, affects all of us.
Together we can make real and meaningful change in the lives of all people with ADHD.
-Phil Boissiere, Founder of Beyond Focused
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Citation:
Biederman, J., & Faraone, S. V. (2006). The Effects of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder on Employment and Household Income.Medscape General Medicine, 8(3), 12.