Research suggests a link between ADHD and suicidal behaviour
Many of us know someone living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This developmental disorder is often diagnosed in childhood, but symptoms can continue throughout adolescence and adulthood. The most commonly cited signs of ADHD are impulsivity, hyperactivity and/or inattention. Lesser-known superpowers among those with ADHD include seemingly endless energy and the ability to hyperfocus when interested in a project. Although many are working to increase awareness of ADHD and to reduce stigma associated with the disorder (example: https://howtoadhd.com/), its impact on health can be significant.
An article published in The British Journal of Psychiatry (June, 2019) reported on the association between ADHD and suicidal behaviour. The study, conducted in Denmark between 1995 and 2014, linked data from various health registries to investigate whether persons diagnosed with ADHD might be more likely to present to the hospital for suicide attempt or death by suicide. Researchers looked at data from more than 2 million people aged 10+ years and found that those living with ADHD had 4x the rates of suicidal events compared to the rest of the population. Even higher rates of these events were reported among females, those previously been convicted of a crime, and individuals with psychiatric comorbidities, who are also living with ADHD. Having one parent with a psychiatric disorder increased rates of suicidal behaviours seven-fold among children with ADHD compared to children without the disorder.
This study supports an association between ADHD and suicidal behaviours. These findings highlight the importance of early identification, diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and also for assessing the risk of suicidal behaviours among those with the disorder. And for those of us with loved ones living with ADHD, this study is a good reminder to check-in with them every once in a while.
Cecilie Fitzgerald, Søren Dalsgaard, Merete Nordentoft and Annette Erlangsen. (2019). Suicidal behaviour among persons with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 7:1-6.
It's interesting that the study shows that most of the suicide risk occurs when there are co-morbid disorders. It is important to always remember that a significant number of adults with ADHD also suffer from childhood adversity, have ACEs and that there continue to be many individuals with C-PTSD diagnosed incorrectly as ADHD. Thanks for reminding us that those diagnosed with ADHD need far more than a (correct) diagnosis and a prescription for stimulants - they require attention to co-morbid pathology including C-PTSD as well as connection, compassion and care. I find that working on shame (which often exists on multiple levels) in therapy often has powerful results.
Like everything else, it is important to look beyond the label and treat the patient in front of you, addressing their life history rather than just their diagnosis. ADHD patients almost always respond well to support and patience, in conjunction with psychiatric care.