People who live with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, known widely as ADHD, may be at a 70 percent greater risk of early death than people without the condition, according to new research.
Those diagnosed with the brain disorder - the most common brain disorder in children - had a 90 percent higher risk of suicide, a 55 percent higher risk of death from both intentional and accidental injuries and a 27 percent higher risk of death from natural causes, U.K. researchers said in analysis of 16 million adults included in19 studies.
The findings are worrying for the over 15.5 million Americans who live with ADHD and point to the influence of known symptoms, including difficulty with impulse control and attention that impacts the ability to follow healthy behaviors, such as diet and exercise.
There is evidence that people with ADHD are more likely to face mental health problems, too. Adults with ADHD are nearly three times as likely to experience depression than adults without the condition, according to the Attention Deficit Disorder Association.
“They also experience more societal exclusion, disadvantage, and stigma. Unintentional injury deaths, such as road deaths, may also be linked to differences in attention,” the university said.
Previous research has also found people with ADHD experience higher rates of health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, diabetes and cancer.
Adults with ADHD could die up to 11 years earlier than those without ADHD, another study from the same researchers found in January 2025.
Women with ADHD were the most impacted, dying up to 11 years earlier than their peers. Whereas men could die up to nine years earlier.
The burden appears to be reduced in people who take medication for ADHD, the researchers noted.
The new analysis also found people who take medication for ADHD appear to have a 25 percent lower mortality risk. The medications work to improve focus and curb impulses.
Though other research published in January has found the stimulants don’t work as previously believed, impacting the brain’s reward and wakefulness centers instead of regions that affect attention.
“Many people with ADHD face challenges throughout their lives, so equitable access to evidence-based assessment and treatment is vital to ensure they can live long, healthy lives,” senior author Dr. Amber John, a lecturer at the University of Liverpool, said.
If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If you are in the U.K. and experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI) or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch . If
you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.