How Gen Z struggles with ADHD shown in Hong Kong girl’s story of symptoms and treatment

Jasmine Chan, 17, had long shown signs of ADHD, the third most common mental health diagnosis for Gen Z, before getting the help she needed

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ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is the third most common mental health diagnosis for Gen Z. Jasmine Chan talks about her symptoms, while experts explain what kind of treatment is available. Illustration: Eunice Tse

Published: 7:45am, 18 Aug 2024

This is the fifth article in a six-part series on Gen Z and mental health, in which we look at some of the conditions they are experiencing, including anxiety, depression and eating disorders. We talk to Gen Zs who share their stories, and to experts for their advice on ways to recover and thrive.

For 17-year-old Jasmine Chan, growing up in Hong Kong had been a tumultuous time during which “her emotions were just exploding”.

She describes having had trouble focusing on tasks and paying attention in school, constantly fidgeting, and forgetting things. She knew something was wrong, but did not know what to do.

Other people often put down her emotional volatility and academic difficulties to laziness or a lack of effort, making it difficult for her to find the support she needed early on.

Jasmine Chan was recently diagnosed with ADHD and is finding ways to manage her symptoms, including through meditation and playing singing bowls. Photo: Lindsay Feng

In 2023, while in her first year of university in the UK, where she is studying illustration, Jasmine was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Her journey highlights the complexities of living with ADHD and navigating mental health in different cultural contexts.

According to the US-based Cleveland Clinic, ADHD is the most common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder. In the US, an estimated 6 million children aged 2 to 17 have had an ADHD diagnosis.

SCMP Series

Gen Z and mental health

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