Study Links ADHD to Shortened Lifespan, Highlights Urgent Need for Support
A groundbreaking study published in The British Journal of Psychiatry has revealed alarming findings: females diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have an average lifespan 8.64 years shorter than their non-ADHD counterparts. For males with ADHD, life expectancy is reduced by 6.78 years.
The study’s authors emphasize that the condition itself may not directly cause this reduced lifespan. Instead, co-occurring health issues, unmet medical needs, and modifiable risk factors—such as tobacco use and substance misuse—likely contribute to this disparity.
ADHD, a common neurodevelopmental condition, is characterized by difficulties in focusing, controlling attention, and completing tasks. Individuals with ADHD are also more likely to experience anxiety, stress, and depression. Globally, ADHD affects an estimated 2.8% of the population, though many cases remain undiagnosed. According to the study, people with ADHD face higher rates of inequality and adversity, including educational underachievement, unemployment, financial instability, discrimination, contact with the criminal justice system, and homelessness. Sleep problems, substance misuse, and chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease are also more prevalent among this group.
The researchers analyzed data from 30,039 adults in the United Kingdom diagnosed with ADHD. Each individual was compared to 10 participants without ADHD, matched for age, sex, and other factors. The study revealed that physical and mental health conditions were significantly more common among those with ADHD. The findings showed that individuals with ADHD face higher risks of diabetes, hypertension, epilepsy, depression, and personality disorders. Life expectancy estimates further underline the severity of these disparities, with females diagnosed with ADHD living an average of 75.15 years compared to 83.79 years for those without, and males living 73.26 years compared to 80.03 years for those without.
Experts not involved in the study weighed in on the findings. Dr. Michelle Dees, a psychiatrist at Luxury Psychiatry Clinic, highlighted how the high prevalence of anxiety and depression among individuals with ADHD increases the risk of accidents, self-harm, and other dangerous behaviors. Dr. Barry K. Herman, chief medical officer at ADHD Online/Mentavi Health, pointed to higher rates of substance misuse and neglect of physical health among those with ADHD.
He explained that these individuals are less likely to attend to their health conditions, keep doctor appointments, or adhere to treatment recommendations. Dr. Beata Lewis, a psychiatrist at Mind Body Seven, noted the “ripple effect” of challenges like work instability and financial stress, which can restrict access to healthcare, nutritious food, and leisure activities. She added that long-term stress can lead to inflammation and hormonal imbalances that negatively affect overall health.
The study’s authors describe the findings as “astonishing” and stress the urgent need to address unmet support requirements for individuals with ADHD. In the UK, where the study was conducted, specialist resources and support systems remain scarce.
To mitigate these risks, experts recommend encouraging regular mental health check-ups, promoting access to comprehensive ADHD management plans, including therapy and medication, and addressing lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management. Enhancing public awareness about ADHD is also critical to reducing stigma and discrimination. By tackling these factors head-on, society can work toward improving the quality of life and life expectancy for individuals living with ADHD.