There are periods of inattention and impulsive behaviors that are characteristic of attention deficit disorder. It can be diagnosed when you are young but can persist into your teenage and adult years.

Social interactions and performance at school are some of the things that can be impacted by attention deficit disorder. Impulsivity linked to the attention deficit disorder can lead to risky behaviors.

There is research that shows people with attention deficit disorder are at an increased risk of suicide. We know a lot about this topic.

Suicide results from self-injury that’s intended to be fatal. It’s a major mental health concern in the United States.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 47,500 people in the United States died of suicide in 2019. After unintentional injury, suicide was the second-leading cause of death in people ages 10 to 34 during the same year.

Research has linked ADHD to an increased suicide risk. The reason for this link is unknown — but factors such as other co-occurring mental health conditions and the effects of ADHD on a person’s life may play a role.

ADHD is associated with increased suicide risk

A 2017 research review collected data from 26 research studies concerning suicide and ADHD. The reviewers found that there was evidence supporting an association between ADHD and suicide. This effect was seen in all age groups studied.

A 2020 research review studied the long-term risk of suicide in children and teens with ADHD. Almost all of the included studies found an association between ADHD and suicidal behavior or There are attempts at suicide..

Other factors may also be important

Certain factors may increase the risk of suicidal behaviors for people with attention deficit disorder.

Researchers found that a history of depression or anxiety can significantly influence suicide risk levels in people with ADHD, along with factors such as:

A 2019 study 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.

You are not alone if you are considering suicide. There is help available right now.

Not in the United States? Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders Worldwide.

There are three types of ADHD:

  • Inattentive type.
  • A type of person that is very active.
  • The combination type is used.

A 2021 study looked suicidal behaviors in 5,693 university students in China. The researchers found that having either inattentive or combination type ADHD was strongly associated with suicidal behaviors, such as

  • suicidal thoughts.
  • Plans for suicide.
  • There are attempts at suicide.

“There are two different categories of symptoms of the disease. Let’s take a closer look at each in a little more detail.”

Inattention

A person with attention deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has trouble concentrating.

People who are experiencing inattention may find it hard to keep their attention. They can have trouble following through with their tasks.

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity

Hyperactivity may look like constant activity and can happen to varying degrees. For example, it can show up as restlessness or fidgeting, such as when a person gets up and moves around at inappropriate times.

Impulsivity is usually seen as a perceived lack of self-control or acting first without thinking things through. Someone experiencing impulsivity may make and act on a decision without thinking about the potential long-term effects of that decision or the impact it may have on those involved.

“It is important to know the symptoms of a mental health emergency, even if you don’t have attention deficit disorder.”

If you are close to someone, you should contact the emergency services immediately.

  • Talking about death or wanting to die is something that can be done.
  • There are feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, or emotional pain.
  • experiencing feelings of:
    • There is no way out of this situation.
    • Being a burden to others.
    • Not having a reason to live is what I am not.
  • isolating from a loved one
  • Either way, sleeping is either too much or too little.
  • experiencing shifts in mood
  • Taking increased risks include using drugs or alcohol more often.
  • Giving away possessions is anywayanydayd.
  • Someone is searching for a way to attempt suicide.

To help someone who is considering self-destructive behavior.

  • Ask if they are considering hurting themselves.
  • Reducing or removing access to lethal items will keep them safe.
  • Be there. Listen. Acknowledge their feelings.
  • Encourage them to reach out. They can call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or text “HOME” to 741741.
  • Follow up with them after the emergency.

There are several treatment options for both depression and attention deficit disorder.

ADHD treatment

Treatment options for ADHD can include:

  • Medications. Medications for ADHD can help to lower hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms. Keep in mind that different medications or dosages may need to be tried before you find one that works for you.
  • Psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is also called “talk therapy.” Some types of psychotherapy that may be beneficial for people with ADHD include behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and family therapy.
  • Lifestyle changes. Try organizing tasks or events by using a list or a calendar, using reminder notes, or setting up a well-defined routine when necessary.

Depression treatment

The treatment for depression involves options similar to those for the treatment of ADHD, including:

  • Medications. A variety of medications may be used to treat depression. The most common type are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
  • Psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is also used for depression. CBT can be especially beneficial for depression.
  • Lifestyle changes. Staying active and socially engaged can help with depression.

People younger than 25 years old may experience more suicidal thoughts. or behavior when taking antidepressants. Carefully monitor changes in your thoughts and behaviors or ask someone close to you to help monitor these changes, especially when first starting on antidepressants or after adjusting the dosage.

First, get treatment for your ADHD. Research has suggested that ADHD medications, specifically stimulant medications, are associated with a lower risk of attempted suicide in people with ADHD.

“If your current treatments aren’t helping you with your symptoms, talk to a doctor. Making adjustments to your treatment plan may help.”

Here are some other ways to help prevent depression and suicidal thoughts.:

  • Create a support network. Build up and maintain a strong support network made up of trusted friends, family members, and members of your community.
  • Ask for help. Reach out to and confide in your support network when negative feelings begin to creep in. Let them know what you’re feeling and how they can help you.
  • Foster a positive attitude. Focus on your best qualities and strengths as well as the things that you find worth living for and experiencing.
  • Stay active. Engage in exercise or other activities that you really enjoy to help to lift your mood when you need it.
  • Maintain your overall health. Take steps to improve your overall health by:
    • Managing any other conditions that may be affecting your health.

Depression or suicidal thoughts. 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 in your support network. If you need to reach out to your support network, make sure you have their contact information on hand.

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 serious, call the emergency room or go to the hospital.

There is research that shows a link between the risk of suicide and the risk of attention deficit disorder.

“There are some factors that may play a role, including the impact that symptoms of the attention deficit disorder have on a person’s quality of life. Depression and anxiety are two mental health conditions that may be involved.”

Never ignore symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts.. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a mental health emergency, it’s important to get help immediately.

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or others.

  • Ask someone to stay with you.
  • Weapons and substances can cause harm.
  • You can call your local emergency number.
  • Reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text “HOME” to 741741.