A world-first study led by researchers from UCL Psychology & Language Sciences, published in The British Journal of Psychiatry, has revealed startling findings about the life expectancy of adults diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The research analyzed anonymized primary care data from over 30,000 adults in the UK diagnosed with ADHD, comparing them to over 300,000 individuals without ADHD. This study highlights significant concerns about the physical health outcomes of those with ADHD, which have often been overlooked.
The study found that adults with ADHD appear to have a reduced life expectancy. Specifically, for men diagnosed with ADHD, the reduction in life expectancy ranged from 4.5 to 9 years, and for women, it was between 6.5 and 11 years. These findings are concerning, as they underscore a potential health crisis for individuals with ADHD that is largely unrecognized in the broader medical community.
Understanding ADHD and Its Impact
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. People with ADHD often experience differences in how they focus their attention. They can be highly energetic and capable of intense focus on topics that interest them, but they may struggle with tasks that are mundane or require prolonged concentration. These challenges often translate into impulsivity, restlessness, and difficulties with planning and time management. As a result, individuals with ADHD may find it more difficult to succeed in academic settings or maintain steady employment, leading to long-term challenges in their personal and professional lives.
Although ADHD is typically diagnosed in childhood, it is increasingly recognized as a condition that persists into adulthood. Many adults may not realize they have ADHD, as symptoms can sometimes be misinterpreted as personal failings rather than symptoms of an underlying condition. The research highlights that in the UK, ADHD is under-treated in adults, with services under-resourced and support systems often ill-equipped to handle the unique needs of these individuals.
Key Findings of the Study
The study conducted by UCL and led by Professor Josh Stott and Dr. Liz O’Nions, analyzed health data from 30,029 adults diagnosed with ADHD across the UK. This cohort was compared with 300,390 individuals who did not have ADHD, matched for factors like age, sex, and primary care practice. The research revealed alarming differences in life expectancy, especially for those who had been formally diagnosed with ADHD.
Professor Stott expressed deep concern about the findings, stating that “it is deeply concerning that some adults with diagnosed ADHD are living shorter lives than they should.” He further elaborated on the unique challenges that individuals with ADHD face, including social exclusion, increased likelihood of stressful life events, and negative impacts on both mental and physical health. ADHD can be a source of immense frustration for individuals who often struggle to access appropriate care, despite having many strengths and talents. The lack of effective support systems can severely impact both their health and self-esteem.
One of the most striking aspects of the study was the under-diagnosis of ADHD in the adult population. The research revealed that fewer than one in nine adults with ADHD had received a formal diagnosis, which significantly limits the scope of the study and may lead to an overestimation of the reduction in life expectancy observed. Dr. O’Nions noted, “Only a small percentage of adults with ADHD have been diagnosed, meaning this study covers just a segment of the entire community.”
In addition, while the study demonstrated a link between ADHD and reduced life expectancy, it was not able to pinpoint the specific causes behind this premature mortality due to the lack of information on the causes of death. This gap in data underscores the need for further research into the health risks faced by adults with ADHD.
ADHD and Health Risks
The challenges faced by individuals with ADHD go beyond just impulsivity and attention regulation. ADHD is associated with higher rates of co-occurring mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. These issues, combined with the challenges of living with untreated ADHD, can contribute to a higher risk of premature death.
Additionally, the study revealed that ADHD is under-treated in the UK, with a third of individuals with ADHD traits aged 16–64 receiving medication or counseling for mental health issues, compared to just 11% of people without ADHD. Furthermore, nearly 8% of individuals who screened positive for ADHD reported they had sought a specific mental health treatment but had been unable to access it, compared to only 1% of those without ADHD. This suggests a clear mismatch between demand and supply for ADHD-related services, which likely exacerbates the condition’s long-term impact on individuals’ health.
The lack of adequate support services in the UK is a leading concern. Despite growing recognition of ADHD’s impact on health outcomes, NHS guidelines acknowledge that treatment and support for ADHD lead to better outcomes, such as reduced mental health issues and substance use. The shortage of resources leaves many adults with ADHD struggling to access the care they need, which could significantly improve their quality of life.
The Need for More Research and Better Support
As the study highlights, ADHD is not just a childhood disorder—it is a lifelong condition that affects millions of adults. The underdiagnosis of ADHD in adults means that many individuals are not receiving the treatment and support that could mitigate the health risks associated with the disorder. Professor Stott emphasized the importance of better understanding why adults with ADHD have a reduced life expectancy and finding strategies to prevent premature deaths in this group.
Dr. O’Nions echoed this sentiment, stating, “Although many people with ADHD live long and healthy lives, our finding that on average they are living shorter lives than they should indicates unmet support needs.” She stressed that the study’s results highlight the urgent need to identify the reasons behind premature deaths and to develop preventive strategies.
This study is one of the first of its kind to examine the life expectancy of adults with ADHD in the UK, and it calls for a greater focus on ADHD as a public health issue. Researchers argue that more community-based research is needed to better understand the broader population of adults with ADHD, as the current data might not fully capture the impact of the condition on the wider community.
Addressing the Gaps in ADHD Treatment
The study’s findings underscore the gaps in the treatment and support available to adults with ADHD. While some people with ADHD can manage the condition with the right interventions, many face substantial barriers to treatment, particularly in the UK. ADHD is under-recognized and under-treated in adults compared to other high-income countries, and as a result, many individuals suffer in silence, struggling with poor mental health, unemployment, and a host of other challenges.
The findings should serve as a call to action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers to develop better diagnostic tools and treatment options for adults with ADHD. Increasing awareness about ADHD in the adult population, improving access to mental health services, and addressing the stigma associated with the condition are all key steps that need to be taken to ensure that adults with ADHD can lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Conclusion
This landmark study is a significant step in understanding the health outcomes of individuals with ADHD and highlights the urgent need for better support systems for adults living with the condition. The findings suggest a reduction in life expectancy for adults diagnosed with ADHD, though more research is needed to determine the specific causes and to understand the full scope of the impact ADHD has on life expectancy.
ADHD should no longer be viewed as a condition confined to childhood; it is a lifelong challenge that affects millions of adults worldwide. The findings of this study are a reminder that early diagnosis, effective treatment, and increased support for adults with ADHD are critical to improving their long-term health and well-being. Only with proper care and attention can the health disparities for individuals with ADHD be addressed, ultimately helping them live longer, healthier lives.
Reference: Life expectancy and years of life lost for adults with diagnosed ADHD in the UK: matched cohort study, The British Journal of Psychiatry (2025). DOI: 10.1192/bjp.2024.199