Impact of social isolation on people with “ADHD”

experiences shared in virtual communities during the pandemic

Abstract

Objective: to describe the impact of social isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Methods: The research was developed from the perspective of Medical Anthropology. Virtual ethnography was chosen as a research methodology and subsequent content analysis. Fifteen ADHD groups participated in the research, all publicly accessible on the Facebook virtual community, and data collection took place through anonymous observation in June 2022. Results: three categories emerged: Difficulties reported by mothers of children with ADHD in the community Facebook during the period of social isolation caused by COVID-19; Mistakes in the literacy of individuals with ADHD and Implications between diagnosis; use/non-use of psychotropic medication based on reports of mothers of children with ADHD. Conclusion: social isolation and home confinement negatively affected the lives of individuals with ADHD, as well as their diagnosis, treatment and continuity of care. The use of technology and virtual communities in social networks was a great foundation of support and information sharing during this period.

Key words: Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity; Methylphenidate; Covid-19. Social Isolation.