Wider health needs in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder from lived and professional experience: a qualitative framework analysis

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study aimed to explore the perspectives of people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), their supporters and primary care professionals (PCPs), on the wider physical and mental health needs of people with ADHD and the support currently available.DesignQualitative semi-structured interviews, analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.SettingFive general practice surgeries across England.ParticipantsParticipants with lived experience (people with ADHD and their supporters (n=11)) and PCPs (n=9) (eg, general practitioners and practice managers), recruited via clinical academic networks and previous work packages of this study.ResultsWe generated three major themes in relation to ADHD, using reflexive thematic analysis: understanding health, barriers to health and addressing health. Within these, participants reflected on mental and physical health challenges, as well as wider social difficulties and variability in support offered/accessed.ConclusionsThis study highlights that health problems in ADHD are complex and rooted both in individual factors (eg, mental health) and social factors (eg, support). This study also highlights the differences in expectations and fulfilment of healthcare.