They may also be at greater risk for self-harm.
ADHD has a positive association with suicide or suicidal behavior and ideation.
ADHD leads to physical, mental, and emotional symptoms that impacts a childs developmental functioning.
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Kids may have trouble paying attention in school or focusing on specific instructions during activities.
Being easily distracted is another symptom, along with not following through on finishing projects or chores.
Constantly losing important items can also be a warning sign.
Children with ADHD can also have symptoms ofhyperactivityand impulsivity.
Some of those traits can make kids more susceptible to thoughts of suicide.
Impulsivity and Suicidality
The nature of impulsivity has a lot to do with the link to suicide.
People with high impulses dont think things through.
Other conditions also play a part.
Its really important to understand…that it doesnt happen in isolation.
There are usually other things going on, adds Dr. Mendez.
Research shows that depression in someone with ADHD significantly increases the possibility of suicide.
Raising children with ADHD in dysfunctional configs increases theirstress.
The low tolerance to stress increases the risk for suicide significantly, explains Nwogwugwu.
Genderalso plays a part.
Sometimes they mask sad feelings really well, notes Dr. Mendez.
Feelings of hopelessness or disinterest in life are also red flags.
Erasing thestigmaassociated with bringing up these issues, and addressing risk factors, is also key.
The differences imply the need for targeted interventions that address specific gender vulnerabilities, notes Nwogwugwu.
Mayra Mendez, PhD
People with high impulses dont think things through.
Sometimes they act and dont really give full consideration to outcomes.
Organizations and websites offer an abundance of resources.
Individuals, families, and caregivers could benefit from a multiplicity of resources to deal with the problem.
Your childs pediatrician and mental health facilities can also give a wealth of information.
Be aware of your triggers, Nwogwugwu concludes.
Seek emotional and professional support when necessary.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Data and statistics about ADHD.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What is ADHD?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms and diagnosis of ADHD.
2018;85:23-29. doi:10.1016/j.comppsych.2018.06.003
Balazs J, Kereszteny A.Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and suicide: A systematic review.World J Psychiatry.
2017;7(1):44-59. doi:10.5498/wjp.v7.i1.44
