Study finds ADHD linked to increased risk of depression and suicide

Study finds ADHD linked to increased risk of depression and suicide

New research found that people with ADHD may be at risk for other mental health disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide. Researchers say this points to a clear need for personalized ADHD treatment that understands the nuances required for each individual situation. Experts recommend working closely with a trusted healthcare provider to find the right treatment for your specific mental health needs.

People with ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may be at risk for mental health disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide, according to a new study.

Estimates suggest that ADHD occurs in approximately 3-6% of the adult population. Symptoms of the neurological disorder range from an inability to concentrate to impulsivity - and, according to the new study, additional psychological problems.

“Our study provides new insights into the complex network of causal relationships between psychiatric disorders caused by ADHD,” said Dr. Dennis Freuer, researcher on the study and chair of epidemiology at the Ausburg University Hospital.

“We have observed an association between ADHD and major depression,” he saidHealth. “Both psychological disorders can individually and together increase the risk of suicide attempts or post-traumatic stress disorder.”

Freuer explained that the study found that an increased risk of anorexia nervosa was entirely due to ADHD. On the other hand, there is no evidence of a causal connection between ADHD and bipolar disorder, anxiety or schizophrenia.

“The clinical implications require that physicians monitor patients with ADHD for other mental disorders, particularly those included in the study, and institute preventative measures when possible,” Sussan Nwogwugwu, PMNHP, a regional nurse practitioner and ADHD treatment expert for DONE, saidHealth.

“This study will promote early and effective treatment of ADHD and reduce the risk and associated greater severity of other mental health conditions,” she said.

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Exploring the connection between ADHD and mental disorders

To determine the association between ADHD and seven mental disorders, researchers used a technique called Mendelian randomization (MR). Freuer explained MR as “a powerful tool that uses genetic variation to infer a causal relationship between a risk factor and an outcome.”

According to Freuer, this approach has several advantages over the “usual” observational study design.

"The idea is to use the random assignment of genetic variations at conception to mimic a randomized controlled trial, thereby overcoming the weaknesses of observational studies, such as unmeasured confounders and reverse causality," he said.

In this way it is possible to assess causal effects instead of correlations, explained Freuer. “In addition, the risk factor and outcome may be measured in different studies that can be combined for a specific scientific question.”

The research team focused on studying ADHD and bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, anorexia, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicide and schizophrenia. They found that ADHD affects risks in the following ways:

Increases the risk of a suicide attempt by 34%. Increases the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder by 20%. Increases the risk of anorexia by 28%.

Additionally, they found that major depression increases the risk of a suicide attempt by 42% and post-traumatic stress disorder by 67%.

“Our results point to the need for early, patient-tailored treatment,” said Freuer. “From the doctor’s perspective, it is necessary to monitor patients with ADHD for early signs of psychological comorbidities and, if necessary, initiate preventive measures.”

He explained that it is important not to underestimate the symptoms, the disease itself and its possible consequences and to seek professional help in a timely manner.

Study Restrictions

The study only included data from people of European descent, so it is unclear whether the results are generalizable to other ethnicities.

Additional risk factors for the mental health of people with ADHD

It is not uncommon for people to develop secondary mental illnesses when suffering from a primary illness. The same applies to people with ADHD.

ADHD can prevent someone from living the life they want. This can then lead to a secondary mental health problem such as depression.

“If a [young person] has been diagnosed with ADHD and the symptoms significantly interfere with their daily life and they are aware of it, it can lead to low self-esteem, behavioral problems and further mental health issues such as depression and anxiety,” said Mailin Delgado, LMHC, a licensed mental health counselor and school psychologist for Plantation Counseling and Wellness.

The opposite is also true, Delgado said. If a young person is depressed or anxious and has also been diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms of ADHD may interfere with continued treatment for the depression or anxiety, especially since working memory and general executive skills are typically impaired by ADHD.

A person's environment could also play a role, said Ambrosio J. Romero, MD, FAAFP, diplomat at the American Board of Family Medicine and ADHD expert at MEDvidiHealth.

“Up to 90% of people with ADHD inherited the disorder from their parents,” she said, “and growing up in the home of a potentially untreated person with ADHD can lead to traumatic childhood experiences or unrealistic and overwhelming expectations.” [that lead to a mental health condition].”

According to Chantal Marie Gagnon, PhD, LMHC, a licensed psychotherapist and owner of Plantation Counseling and Wellness, even experiences at work or school can cause mental health problems for people with ADHD.

“One of the [challenges] is that the majority of K-12 educators and parents prioritize behavior over creativity and enthusiasm,” Gagnon said. “As a result, children with ADHD are often disliked in these early years, and we know that social isolation and peer rejection are a large contributor to this.” Depression." This is especially true for teenagers.

Reducing the risk of developing additional mental disorders

When it comes to reducing the risk of mental illness for people with ADHD, Gagnon says therapy and psychoeducation should be at the top of the list.

“Connecting with a knowledgeable and experienced team of mental health professionals can provide multiple viewpoints and solutions, all working with the patient to achieve the best outcome,” she said.

Lifestyle changes can also help reduce the risk of co-occurring medical conditions.

“People with ADHD need to focus on lifestyle factors that impact their mental health but also improve overall well-being,” Nwogwugwu said. “This includes adequate sleep, a good diet, stress management techniques, regular exercise and a supportive social network.”

"It's also important to be open and honest with your doctor about your symptoms, their impact on your life, and any other relevant medical history," Romero said.

For example, you can keep a diary of your symptoms and how they affect your life and then share them with a healthcare provider. It's also worth asking questions about the different treatment options available and the potential benefits and risks of each.

While this may require a little more patience to find the right path to treating your condition, Romero emphasized the importance of continuing until the right treatment is found.

He encourages patients: “Be willing to try different treatment options until you find one that works for you.”

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