Health

Shocking Link: ADHD Dramatically Increases Risk of PMDD in Women!

2025-06-26

Author: Yu

ADHD and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: A Troubling Connection

A groundbreaking new study has unveiled a startling link between attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and a significantly heightened risk for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), shedding light on a critical health issue that affects many women. Published in the esteemed British Journal of Psychiatry, the findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive screening for PMDD among women diagnosed with ADHD.

A Threefold Increase in Risk!

The research reveals that women with ADHD face over three times the risk of developing PMDD compared to their peers without ADHD. This risk escalates even further for those battling additional challenges like anxiety and depression. Jessica Agnew-Blais, PhD, a prominent researcher at Queen Mary University of London, emphasizes the necessity of addressing the unique health concerns of adult women with ADHD, particularly their vulnerability to PMDD.

Inside the Study: Who Were The Participants?

Utilizing the Prolific online platform, the study engaged participants who self-identified as having ADHD alongside a control group. Women aged 18 to 34, assigned female at birth and residing in the UK, were carefully selected to share their experiences and challenges. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) was employed to evaluate ADHD symptoms, ensuring an accurate depiction of the participants’ struggles in various aspects of life—home, work, and social settings.

Unpacking PMDD Symptoms

To assess premenstrual symptoms, the researchers utilized the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST), which effectively identifies a range of PMDD indicators, including irritability, anxiety, severe mood changes, and physical symptoms. A stark contrast was observed, revealing that a staggering 31.4% of women with ADHD reported PMDD symptoms, compared to only 9.8% in the control group. This troubling statistic signals a 3.19-fold increase in potential PMDD risk among ADHD patients.

Anxiety and Depression Amplify the Risk

The findings also indicate that women with both ADHD and comorbid anxiety or depression experience the highest rates of PMDD—35.1% compared to 20% among those with just ADHD. This places them at a 3.56-fold increased risk of PMDD relative to women without these disorders. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions and research into ADHD’s interaction with hormonal fluctuations.

A Call for Further Research and Attention

Thomas Broughton, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher at Queen Mary University, stresses the importance of ongoing research to delve deeper into the connection between ADHD and hormonal changes, particularly throughout the menstrual cycle. This study shines a spotlight on potential health disparities and diagnostic biases that continue to affect women and girls with ADHD, urging the medical community to take action.

As awareness grows, it’s crucial that healthcare providers understand these significant links to better support and treat women battling ADHD and PMDD. This pivotal research could change lives, bringing necessary attention to an often-overlooked issue!