Bath, UK — Adults with severe ADHD symptoms are more likely to experience depression and anxiety than adults with advanced autistic traits, according to a new study.
Scientists have linked autism to mental health problems in the past, but have concluded that ADHD can actually predict worsening mental health in adults compared to other neurodevelopmental conditions. This is my first project. The study authors add that until this study is done, information about the impact of ADHD on mental health decline is lacking. As a result, many patients diagnosed with ADHD struggle to receive the mental health support and clinical care they need. A research team at the University of Bath hopes their efforts can help change this troubling trend.
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
“Scientists have long known that autism is associated with anxiety and depression, but ADHD has been somewhat neglected,” lead researcher Luka Hargitay said in a statement from the university. says. “Researchers also struggle to statistically separate the importance of her ADHD and autism on mental health outcomes, as ADHD and autism frequently occur together.”
“Our aim was to accurately measure how strongly ADHD personality traits are associated with poorer mental health while statistically describing autistic traits.”
More and more people are publicizing their battles with ADHD
This latest study from a collaboration between the Universities of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and King’s College London is the same as two famous British TV personalities (Johnny Vegas and Superkins) revealed their recent ADHD diagnoses. It happened to take place on the moon. .
“This condition affects many people, both children and adults, and the fact that more people are willing to talk about it should be welcomed.” It is hoped that further research in the field will bring better resources to help individuals better manage their mental health.”
The researchers utilized a large, nationally representative sample of adults from the United Kingdom. Each person completed a questionnaire that the team called the “gold standard.” One focused on features of autism and one on ADHD. Examples of statements in these surveys include, “I am often obsessed with one thing” and “I am overly active and have to do something, as if I am driven by an engine.” How often do you feel
The authors of the study report that ADHD characteristics are highly predictive of the severity of anxiety and depressive symptoms. More specifically, the higher your ADHD trait level, the more likely you are to deal with serious mental health symptoms. ” was more strongly associated with anxiety and depression than with autistic traits.
According to the team, these results were reproduced using computerized simulations with 100% “reproducibility”. This strongly suggests that ADHD traits are almost certainly associated with more severe anxiety and depressive symptoms in adults compared to traits associated with autism.
“Our findings suggest that research and clinical practice must shift focus from autism to ADHD. It can help, so early preventative measures like supporting children and adults in managing ADHD symptoms can have a greater impact on improving people’s well-being.”
Will medical professionals pay more attention to ADHD?
The study also advances modern science’s understanding of common neurodevelopmental conditions, said senior study author Dr. Punit Shah, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Bath.
“By addressing the shortcomings of previous research, our study provides new information about the often overlooked complex links between neurodiversity and mental health in adults. More research is needed to better understand the reasons that are associated with poorer mental health, especially in terms of the mental processes that drive anxiety and depressive thoughts in people with ADHD traits,” said Dr Shah. explains.
“Currently, there is a lack of funding for ADHD research, especially psychological research. Now that we have evidence that persists across the lifespan, rather than the condition, research plans should be adjusted to better understand ADHD in adulthood.”
This research scientific report.
