When Halloween “Hyper” Meets ADHD: What a New Study Reveals About Overdiagnosis

Every October 31st, kids go wild - costumes, sugar, excitement - but what if that same energy is quietly shaping ADHD diagnoses? In this Doctor’s Desk episode, Justin and Kylie unpack a fascinating new study showing a 14% spike in ADHD diagnoses on Halloween day. They explore what this says about subjectivity in diagnosis, the risks of overlabelling kids, and how our environments - not just our children - might need rethinking.

KEY POINTS:

• A new Harvard study found ADHD diagnoses rise 14% on Halloween compared to surrounding days.
• ADHD remains a subjective diagnosis — there’s no blood test or scan to confirm it.
• Why environment and maturity often explain behaviours mistaken for “disorder.”
• The real risks of misdiagnosis — medication, labelling, and self-perception.
• Why it’s time to look at what’s happening around kids, not just within them.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:
“There isn’t anything wrong with her — she just doesn’t fit the mould of what we consider normal.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Study: Halloween, ADHD, and Subjectivity in Medical Diagnosis (National Bureau of Economic Research)
• Searching for Normal by Sami Timimi
• The Parenting Revolution by Justin Coulson

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

1. Before seeking a diagnosis, consider context — sleep, stress, diet, and school environment.
2. Avoid rushing to label; focus on understanding and supporting your child’s unique needs.
3. Ask questions — about treatment pathways, environment, and alternative perspectives.
4. Create calmer spaces where kids can regulate, play, and thrive.

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