Self-Assessment of Quality of Life in Adults With ADHD
Marta Zanotti, Luana Salerno, Gian Marco Marzocchi
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has long been regarded as a childhood condition; however, evidence consistently demonstrates its persistence into adulthood, often resulting in significant impairment in quality of life. This study examined functional impairment in a sample of 45 Italian adults diagnosed with ADHD, with the aim of exploring their perceived quality of life. Participants completed the BFIS Self-Report, revealing an overall mild-to-moderate level of daily difficulties, a finding to be considered since all subjects were receiving treatment (psychological and/or pharmacological). The greatest perceived impairments concerned financial and family responsibilities as well as civic and social activities, followed by self-care and autonomy; fewer difficulties were reported in family and intimate relationships. In terms of symptom domains, inattention was associated with a wide range of daily impairments, while hyperactivity-impulsivity mainly affected self-care and family relationships. Interestingly, comorbid anxiety disorders were found to have a protective effect in relational functioning. Unexpectedly, in the examined population sample, pharmacological therapy was shown to significantly reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity, while psychological therapy appeared more effective on inattention. Combined treatment was associated with fewer difficulties in central areas of daily life and, in line with previous evidence, emerged as the most effective approach.
Keywords
ADHD, Adult, Quality of Life.