Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and the Athlete: An American Medical Society for Sports Medicine Position Statement

Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an important issue for the physician taking care of athletes since ADHD is common in the athletic population, and comorbid issues affect athletes of all ages. The health care provider taking care of athletes should be familiar with making the diagnosis of ADHD, the management of ADHD, and how treatment medications impact exercise and performance. In this statement, the term "Team Physician" is used in reference to all healthcare providers that take care of athletes. These providers should understand the side effects of medications, regulatory issues regarding stimulant medications, and indications for additional testing. This position statement is not intended to be a comprehensive review of ADHD, but rather a directed review of the core issues related to the athlete with ADHD.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as a risk factor for concussions in NCAA division-I athletes

“…Although limited, past work has indeed examined the impact of ADHD on risk for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and recovery from TBI. ADHD has been linked with increased likelihood of experiencing a TBI [7], as children with ADHD have been shown to be more likely to sustain a head injury vs those children without ADHD (53% vs 41%) [5]. More recent work also shows that ADHD is a significant predictor of poor outcomes following a TBI, including greater disability and slower recovery [5].…”

“…ADHD affects up to 10% of children and 4.4% of adults aged 18-44 years and the prevalence of ADHD in athletes is proposed to be representative of the general population [7]. A recent consensus statement emphasizes increased awareness and management of athletes with ADHD by team physicians and coaches, particularly as it involves exercise and on-field situations [7].…”

Interassociation Recommendations for Developing a Plan to Recognize and Refer Student-Athletes With Psychological Concerns at the Secondary School Level: A Consensus Statement

“…Several objective symptom-assessment scales, including the Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scales, Vanderbilt Assessment Scales, and Conners Rating Scales, can be completed by parents, teachers, and adolescents and are helpful in evaluating ADHD symptoms. 75 Common symptoms of ADHD are found in Table 5.…”

Youth Sport Experiences of Individuals With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

“…On the other hand, there were reported social benefits arising from participants' experiences in sport (e.g., developing friendships with teammates). There are complex issues of social acceptance among individuals with ADHD, and they often have social-skill deficits and face peer rejection (Barkley et al, 2002;Putukian et al, 2011). Outcomes of perceived social acceptance can vary depending on the status of children among their peers (i.e., the extent to which individuals are accepted by peers).…”

“…or illicit drug use, teen pregnancy, and mental health concerns including anxiety and depression (Barkley et al, 2002;Putukian et al, 2011).…”