This preliminary study suggests the possibility of relatively higher rates of ADHD in a general AMHS than previously thought, however, given the possibility of overlapping symptoms with other major psychiatric disorders in adulthood and recall bias further research is needed before drawing firm conclusions.

Aims & objectiveTo find out the prevalence of ADHD in adults who attend the mental health services in Sligo / Leitrim county.To understand how many cases of ADHD are undiagnosed in the specific adult populationTo investigate comorbid illness.MethodsAll outpatients, aged 18-65 having a minimum of 5 years education, able to speak, read & write English language are included. patients with severe learning disabilities, patients with severe brain injury &with amnesic disorders were excluded.Scales /MeasurementTwo screening scales were used (Adult Self -Report scale, Wender Utah Rating Scale)Demographics (Age, Gender, Occupation)ResultsThe study is ongoing & preliminary data analysis shows :184 people were screened37 excluded (20%)147 included (80%)Mean age42.1(SD:12.6)Gender71 males (48.3%), 76 Females (51.7%) In the included category 60 were Positive at ASRS (41%), 46 were positive at WURS (31.5%), 27 were positive for both scales (17%)ConclusionThe high percentages of ADHD in this particular population can interpreted in two ways. Many cases were missed during the childhood (unlikely) or that there is an overlap of ADHD symptoms with other psychiatric conditions in the adulthood. A third explanation is that both scales over diagnose ADHD but this is not supported from previous research.

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