New University of Limerick research reveals challenges faced by young people with ADHD

New UL research reveals challenges faced by young people with ADHD. Pictured is the lead author of the study and PhD researcher, Jessie Tierney (right), along with co-author Professor Katie Robinson (left) from the School of Allied Health at University of Limerick. Photo: Alan Place

New research from University of Limerick (UL) has revealed the significant challenges that young people with ADHD face as they transition into adulthood

A study led by researchers from UL’s School of Allied Health is the first major review of international research capturing the lived experiences of ADHD youth across 11 countries, including Ireland.

According to the research, the challenges experienced by those with ADHD aged between 15 and 29 are shaped as much by societal expectations and structural barriers as by ADHD itself.

The study revealed the difficulties that ADHD youth face when transitioning between child and adult health services and how they are particularly vulnerable when transitioning to third-level education and employment.

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Young people reported self-doubt, difficulty accessing accommodations, struggling with managing medication, inconsistent healthcare relationships and fragmented adult services.  

They also reported dilemmas when disclosing their condition to employers, referring to the stigma which can at times be associated with having ADHD.

Peer support and positive clinician relationships were described as transformative when present.

One young person referenced in the study said, “There is a dilemma between keeping ADHD a secret to prevent stigmatisation, and at the same time longing for understanding from peers, colleagues and superiors.”

Another described ADHD as being “like an octopus…it has tentacles into every single aspect of me”.

Lead author of the study, Jessie Tierney, who led the review as part of her PhD research at UL, said, “In these studies, young people describe ADHD as not just something they have – it is central to who they are.

“While many experience significant barriers in education, work and healthcare, they also described creativity, energy, empathy and insight as core strengths.

“The real tension arises when societal expectations demand conformity rather than understanding.”

Ms Tierney, along with her co-authors, Professor Katie Robinson and Dr Ann-Marie Morrissey from UL’s School of Allied Health, recommend targeted interventions to support self-management, social functioning, disclosure decision-making and shared decision-making in clinical care, particularly during key transitions into adult healthcare, higher education and employment.

Professor of Occupational Therapy Katie Robinson noted the importance of supportive peers and clinicians in assisting ADHD youth overcome the challenges they face.

She said, “What stood out strongly in this study was the power of others. Supportive peers, informed clinicians and understanding employers can make an enormous difference.

“But where stigma, misunderstanding or rigid systems dominate, young people feel isolated and marginalised. Services must prioritise continuity, shared decision-making and social inclusion.”

Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr Margo Wrigley, National Clinical Lead for the HSE Adult ADHD National Clinical Programme, said: “For services, these findings highlight the need for joined-up pathways from child to adult care, proactive transition planning, and collaborative, strengths-focused models that support autonomy.

“When young people feel heard and involved in decisions, outcomes improve. This research reinforces that service reform must centre lived experience.”