A recent study has revealed that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with higher rates of depression, anorexia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as an increased risk of suicide attempts. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition shown by hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.
The study reported that individuals with ADHD were 30% more likely to attempt suicide and 9% more likely to develop major depression. Individuals with ADHD who later developed depression had a 42% higher likelihood of attempting suicide.
“ADHD and suicidal behavior share common genetic factors that may reflect genetic variants associated with impulsivity, a trait that is highly heritable,”
“Impulsivity is a core component of ADHD and closely associated with suicidal behavior. Our study suggests that both ADHD and major depressive disorder are risk factors for suicide attempt,”
Lead study author Dr. Dennis Freuer, a statistician and chair of epidemiology at the University of Augsburg in Germany.
Additionally, the study revealed an 18% higher likelihood of developing PTSD following trauma for individuals with ADHD. When ADHD coexisted with depression, the risk of PTSD rose significantly by 67%.
ADHD linked with Anorexia
The research also identified a direct link between ADHD and anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by distorted body image and extreme fear of weight gain. Notably, this link was not associated with major depression but was attributed entirely to ADHD. Both conditions exhibited a deficiency in impulse control, which could explain the connection.
Overall, the study’s findings underscore the well-known fact that ADHD often co-occurs with other mental health conditions. While it does not guarantee specific outcomes, having ADHD increases the likelihood of certain mental health challenges.
Genetic influence
The study used Mendelian randomization to identify the genetic influence on ADHD. Mendelian randomization use to identify the influence of genetic factors on health outcomes. It specifically investigated ADHD’s links to seven mental health conditions, including major depressive disorder, PTSD, and anorexia nervosa. Even though researchers found causal links between ADHD and some conditions, they couldn’t find such links with bipolar disorder, anxiety, or schizophrenia.
The absence of a link with anxiety, despite its common comorbidity with ADHD, highlights the complex interplay between genetics and environmental factors. Different environments can lead to varying expressions of ADHD-related symptoms, such as anxiety and depression.
This study shows the importance of diagnosing and treating ADHD in both children and adults. It also suggests early screenings for signs of depression could be beneficial for treatment. Recognizing the genetic component of these associations may help clinicians provide more targeted care.
Also read:
- Antioxidants Like Vitamin C & E Increase Cancer Growth | New Study Finds!
- Brain Imaging Shows Parental Criticism Hurts More Than Praise For Depressed Teens
