ADHD Treatment Costs Quadruple in 4 Years; Significant Increase Seen in 20s and 30s Age Groups

A significant surge in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnoses and treatment costs is reshaping South Korea's mental health landscape. Data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service reveals a staggering fourfold increase in ADHD-related medical expenses over the past four years, escalating from 46.1 billion won in 2020 to 190.9 billion won in 2024. This financial escalation is mirrored by a more than threefold rise in the number of patients diagnosed with ADHD.

While adolescents, particularly those aged 10-19, constitute the largest patient demographic, the most striking trend is the rapid increase among adults. The number of patients in their 20s and 30s has grown at an average annual rate of 43% and 60%, respectively. This dramatic rise challenges the long-held perception of ADHD as primarily a childhood disorder, underscoring a growing awareness and acceptance of adult ADHD diagnosis and treatment within South Korea.

This shift is particularly noteworthy from a domestic perspective. For years, the stigma surrounding mental health conditions in Korea often led individuals to suppress or ignore symptoms. The increasing number of adults seeking diagnosis and treatment suggests a cultural evolution, where mental well-being is gaining greater importance. Furthermore, the trend highlights the need for more accessible and specialized adult mental health services. Dong-A Ilbo's reporting aims to shed light on these evolving trends, encouraging further discussion and support for individuals affected by ADHD, and emphasizing that this condition extends far beyond childhood.