ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disability which affects around 8% of the population according to the World Health Organisation. Not having local prevalence rates, it is hard to quantify just how many people in Malta have ADHD, but no matter the rate, it is common.
Persons with ADHD are known to have many positive characteristics which can be honed with ADHD self-awareness and the right understanding support and environment. Many ADHDers are creative, passionate and have a lot of drive and energy. Others are sensitive and excel in things they are passionate about. They can be adventurous, risk-takers and can be successful entrepreneurs. They can be honest and can be the life of the party. They also can be quiet, observant and deep thinkers.
The flipside of these positive ADHD traits leads ADHDers to face unique challenges that require support in various aspects of their lives along the lifespan, from diagnosis to treatment and employment. ADHDers may struggle with keeping sustained attention in all areas, as well as with impulse control and executive function. This can affect their ability to focus for long periods of time on tasks which are not interesting or stimulating enough, and struggle with traditional organisation, time management and emotional regulation. ADHD rarely presents alone and is often accompanied by other conditions such as autism, anxiety, learning difficulties and depression, to name a few. Like autistic people, ADHDers may also have difficulties with social interactions and sensory sensitivities.
These challenges impact not only the person but also their families, who often play a vital role in advocating for their needs, seeking appropriate resources and providing ongoing emotional support. ADHD is also found to be genetic and hence runs in families, making this a very complex family dynamic.
Recently, the Committee for Social Affairs, within the Maltese Parliament, commissioned a study conducted by the Faculty of Social Wellbeing at the University of Malta to identify gaps and areas in Malta's current services for individuals with ASD and/or ADHD. The study's findings resulted in 70 recommendations, which are being proposed to improve the quality of life of this neurodiverse community.
The study found that many participants felt discriminated against due to their ADHD diagnosis. Many adults felt that service providers did not take ADHD seriously with 91% of service users and 82% of caregivers reporting that they were denied essential services and basic information despite their diagnosis. Additionally, at the time of the study, 58% of service users were found not to have received any support in the previous six months. This highlights the urgent need for better access to resources and assistance.
Many found that accessing care was too complex. Having an ADHD and autism clinic, which offers all necessary services, would simplify the system for entire families; seeing that ADHD is genetic so family members often live with the same condition.
Many adults with ADHD face challenges accessing care and treatment due to the complexity of the system and due to their socio-economic situation. Adults frequently use private services (due to limited state-provided services) to access basic care and to be provided with medication, which can be crucial for managing ADHD symptoms. Not having access to proper affordable treatment may lead to negative consequences, including keeping employment.
The study reported that 15.6% of individuals are unemployed. Struggling to meet deadlines, and other workplace challenges for ADHDers are related to their executive function challenges. Employers being aware of diversity in the workplace is crucial.
This study has given a voice to ADHDers and the autistic community, bringing to light barriers we live with on a daily basis. Through the years, ADHD Malta has been advocating for research-based changes this study recommends and we hope that this will serve as a wake-up call and inspire positive change in the disability sector!
For more information or support related to ADHD, to volunteer or give a donation, please email [email protected], message through our Facebook Page - ADHD Malta or phone on: 7729 7800.
ADHD Malta are full members of Malta Health Network: www.maltahealthnetwork.org