Challenges of children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic

Kuygun Karci, Canan; Arici Gurbuz, Asiye

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to understand the challenging effect of the pandemic on children and adolescents with ADHD. METHODS: 100 children and adolescents with ADHD aged 7-18 years were included in the study. They were evaluated in terms of internet addiction diagnostic criteria. Symptom severity was assessed using the CBCL, CPRS, and SNAP-IV. RESULTS: We found that 42% spent less time outdoors, and 26% spent more time watching TV. 57% had increased internet use and 28% were diagnosed as having internet addiction. There was a significant difference in terms of symptom severity between the groups depending on whether the children took part in sports activity before the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: Children and adolescents with ADHD have experienced challenges in many areas, especially internet use in the pandemic. The positive long-term effects of exercise in children with ADHD are thought to be protective in terms of symptom management during the COVID-19 pandemic.