Addressing Untreated ADHD + Suicide in the context of suicide risk is crucial as individuals with ADHD are at a higher risk of suicidal ideation and behaviors compared to the general population. Untreated ADHD can lead to various challenges such as impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, and difficulty in academic or occupational settings, all of which can contribute to increased stress and a sense of hopelessness.
It's crucial for parents, family, teachers, and medical professionals to start taking ADHD more seriously, it could mean saving a life. Parents shouldn't ignore being told their children have ADHD. To many parents are worried about the stigma that surrounds ADHD, and don't' want to judge on having a kid labeled "ADHD".
When ADHD is left untreated, individuals may struggle to cope with the demands of daily life, leading to feelings of frustration, failure, and isolation. This can exacerbate underlying mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, further increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Henry Shelford, Chairperson and co-founder of ADHD UK said: “Recent research shows adults with ADHD are 5 times more likely than those without to have attempted suicide (14% vs 2.7%). That rises to one in four for women with ADHD
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Untreated ADHD + Suicide:
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A 2017 research review and a 2020 research review both support the association between ADHD and an increased risk of suicide across all age groups studied.
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The presence of co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, may further elevate the risk of suicidal behaviors in individuals with ADHD.
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People with ADHD were 30% more likely to attempt suicide and 9% more likely to develop major depression, according to the study, which could only show associations and not prove a direct cause and effect. Once those with ADHD developed depression, they were then 42% more likely to try to take their own life.
“ADHD and suicidal behavior share common genetic factors that may reflect genetic variants associated with impulsivity, a trait that is highly heritable,” said lead study author Dr. Dennis Freuer, a statistician and chair of epidemiology at the University of Augsburg in Germany.
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Contributing Factors:
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Various factors, such as a history of depression or anxiety, substance use disorder, identifying as female, achieving a lower level of education, and experiencing parental domestic violence during childhood, can influence suicide risk levels in people with ADHD.
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Studies on ADHD Types and Suicidal Behaviors:
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A 2021 study in China explored suicidal behaviors in university students with different types of ADHD. Both inattentive and combination types were strongly associated with suicidal behaviors, including suicidal ideation, suicide plans, and suicide attempts.
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Symptoms of ADHD:
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ADHD is characterized by periods of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
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Inattention may manifest as difficulty focusing on tasks or staying organized, while hyperactivity can include restlessness or constant activity.
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Impulsivity is seen as a perceived lack of self-control or acting without thinking about the consequences.
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Mental Health Emergency Awareness:
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The information emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms of a mental health emergency, whether related to ADHD or not.
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It provides guidance on seeking immediate help and assisting someone who may be at risk of self-harm or suicide.
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Research suggests that individuals with ADHD may be more prone to experiencing co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders. These comorbidities, if left untreated, can elevate the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The challenges associated with ADHD, such as difficulties in managing emotions, impulsivity, and potential struggles with social relationships, can contribute to the development of these co-occurring conditions.Having ADHD is associated with an increased risk of suicidal behaviors, and certain other factors may increase this risk further.
Researchers found that a history of depression or anxiety can significantly influence suicide risk levels in people with ADHD, along with factors such as:
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having a history of substance use disorder
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identifying as female
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achieving a lower level of education
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experiencing parental domestic violence during childhood
A 2019 studyTrusted Source also found that having depression or anxiety increased the risk of suicide in children with ADHD. The structure of a child’s family (called “family function” in the study) was found to play an important role, too.
And a 2021 study of people with ADHD found that ADHD symptoms were only associated with attempted suicide when a mood disorder, such as depression or bipolar disorder, was also present.
Depression or suicidal ideation should never be ignored. Find help immediately if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of a mental health emergency.
This can involve reaching out to someone within your support network to confide in. Make sure you have the contact information for members of your support network on hand in case you need to reach out.
It’s critical for caregivers and loved ones to know what signs to look for in a child with ADHD who is coping with suicidal thoughts.
“We might see a lot more withdrawing, maybe sadness, a person that’s looking down, but not always. Sometimes they mask sad feelings really well,” notes Dr. Mendez. Feelings of hopelessness or disinterest in life are also red flags.
Untreated ADHD + Suicide experts say raising the level of awareness of issues children with ADHD face, as well as raising awareness about signs of suicide, is imperative. Erasing the stigma associated with bringing up these issues, and addressing risk factors, is also key.
“The differences imply the need for targeted interventions that address specific gender vulnerabilities,” notes Nwangwu. “While pharmacological interventions are critical, it is essential to incorporate psychosocial strategies that target organizational, attention, and social skills,” she adds.
You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. It’s available 24 hours per day and 7 days per week. All calls are kept confidential.
If a situation is an emergency, don’t hesitate to call 911 or go to the emergency room.
