Probability of a Child Being Diagnosed with ADHD

The CDC estimates that approximately 9.7% of US children aged 3-17 (about 6 million) have ever been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Boys are diagnosed at roughly twice the rate of girls (13% vs 6%), though research increasingly suggests that ADHD in girls is significantly underdiagnosed because it more often presents as inattentive type rather than hyperactive-impulsive type.

ADHD diagnosis rates have increased steadily, from about 7.8% in 2003 to 9.7% in 2022. This increase likely reflects both improved awareness and diagnostic practices as well as potential overdiagnosis in some populations. Rates vary by state, with southern states generally reporting higher diagnosis rates.

About 60% of children with ADHD also have at least one other mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder. Common co-occurring conditions include anxiety (33%), behavior/conduct disorders (25%), depression (17%), and autism spectrum disorder (14%). Treatment typically includes behavioral therapy (recommended as the first-line treatment for children under 6), stimulant medications (effective in about 70-80% of children), and educational accommodations. About 62% of children with ADHD are taking medication.