ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder affects up to five percent of all children of preschool age and older. Although the incidence of ADHD is almost three times higher among boys, there’s increasing evidence that girls with ADHD may experience mental health problems from this disorder later in life.

In a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, researchers found that female ADHD sufferers were up to seven times more likely to experience psychiatric problems during their teen and adult years including substance abuse problems, eating disorders, anxiety, antisocial behavior, and mood disorders. These are very similar to the problems seen later in life in boys – although this association has not been well studied in female ADHD sufferers.

It’s long been known that children, including girls with ADHD, are more prone to accident related injuries and this propensity often follows them into adulthood where they’re at higher risk for run-ins with the law, drunk driving, and substance abuse related injuries and poisonings. This isn’t surprising since kids and teens with ADHD are more likely to be involved in high risk behaviors.

ADHD in girls is more likely to go undiagnosed and untreated because it’s often thought of as a condition that affects primarily boys. This may lead to a greater likelihood of psychiatric and mental health problems later in life. Symptoms of ADHD in girls may include a short attention span, falling behind in school, restlessness and lack of focus, disorganization, and forgetfulness. They may be perceived by others as shy and withdrawn, but are less likely to have the obvious signs of impulsiveness seen in boys with ADHD.

Girls with ADHD during childhood are at a particularly high risk of developing antisocial behavior as they grow into adults. This can present lifelong problems with relationships and social interactions – making it difficult for female ADHD sufferers as children to have meaningful relationships later in life.

Does diagnosing and treating ADHD in girls early reduce the risk of mental health problems later? This hasn’t been well studied according to Scott Kollins, PhD, MS who was involved in the study. Getting help for ADHD children at an early age is important for both males and females since the symptoms can impact every aspect of their life from academic performance to social interactions. If it helps to reduce problems later in life – so much the better.

Filed under: Fitness

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