Impact and Treatment of ADHD in the Argentine Context

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has had a significant impact on children and adolescents, affecting their academic and social performance. In Argentina, the detection and treatment of ADHD in 2019 was marked by inequalities in access to resources, depending on geographical location and socioeconomic status. The lack of accurate statistics made it difficult to develop effective public policies, although estimates indicated a prevalence similar to that of other countries. Insufficient training of teachers and health professionals complicated the early identification of the disorder, especially in the public education system. In contrast, more comprehensive evaluations were carried out in private institutions, allowing for faster access to specialists. The National Mental Health Law guaranteed the right to care, but its implementation in cases of ADHD presented challenges, especially with regard to treatment coverage. Access to medication such as methylphenidate was also limited and subject to differences between provinces. At the same time, the debate over the use of drugs in children with ADHD continued to generate controversy. In the midst of an economic crisis, many families found it difficult to afford complementary therapies. Despite these challenges, the importance of strengthening training and awareness about ADHD was highlighted in order to reduce stigmatization and improve access to comprehensive treatment.