Experts suggest that inadequate treatment and recognition of adult ADHD in the UK contribute to shorter life expectancies, indicating a need for better care and support.

Researchers attribute the increased mortality risk to unhealthy lifestyle choices and inadequate health support, with adults with ADHD more prone to risky habits like binge eating and smoking.

Access to treatment is problematic, with a national survey revealing that 8% of adults with ADHD were denied requested mental health treatment, compared to only 1% of those without ADHD.

Healthcare providers and policymakers are urged to address these unmet needs for ADHD treatment and support to improve health outcomes for affected individuals.

The research compared these individuals to a control group of over 300,000 similar individuals without the diagnosis, focusing on their health outcomes.

The study revealed a notable gender disparity, as women with ADHD tend to lose more years of life than men, raising concerns about differences in diagnosis and treatment.

Globally, nearly 3% of adults are estimated to have ADHD, yet many cases remain undiagnosed, particularly in the UK.

Dr. Oliver Howes emphasized the urgent need for increased investment in mental health services to better support individuals with ADHD.

Findings indicate that adults with ADHD have a significantly reduced life expectancy, with men living 4.5 to 9 years shorter and women 6.5 to 11 years shorter than the general population.

A recent study published in The British Journal of Psychiatry analyzed electronic health records from nearly 10 million UK residents, identifying over 30,000 adults with diagnosed ADHD.

Additionally, individuals with ADHD are at a higher risk for developing various health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

The study highlights that ADHD affects individuals beyond just focus issues, as they often face challenges with impulsiveness, restlessness, and time management.