Wolfson Centre researcher aims to better understand the link between ADHD and depression in young people

New study utilizes extensive datasets to shed light on the complex relationship and potential interventions for young individuals

To help address the pressing issue of depression among young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), researchers at Cardiff University, are undertaking a new research project called “How and why does ADHD lead to depression in young people?”

The project is set to start in September and has been awarded, alongside two other ADHD studies, a £2.4m grant by the Medical Research Council (MRC).

This study aims to better understand the how and why young people with ADHD are at increased risk of depression. It will harness data from two large existing UK population cohorts, where data have been collected from birth into young adulthood, to examine associations between ADHD and depression across childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood.

Interventions designed to alleviate depression do not appear to be as effective for young individuals with ADHD. Researchers argue that a deeper understanding of how and why ADHD can lead to depression is imperative. By leveraging advanced statistical methods on these extensive datasets, the study aims to shed light on the following key aspects:

1. Tracing the development of the link: Dr Riglin and the team will analyse the data to better understand how the relationship between ADHD and depression evolves across different stages of young people’s life. The team will investigate whether depression manifests earlier and lasts longer in young people with ADHD, and whether the timing and duration of ADHD play a role. Additionally, the study will explore whether distinct types of depression symptoms are associated with ADHD at various ages.
2. Identifying potential targets: A critical objective of the study is to identify characteristics that may serve as potential targets for future depression interventions for young individuals with ADHD. Researchers will delve into factors related to cognitive functioning, such as impulsivity and negative event processing, as well as factors relating to emotions and behaviours, like irritability and anxiety. Understanding these links could help understand what depression interventions may be effective for young people with ADHD
3. Impact of relationships: Recognising that therapies for depression often aim to enhance relationships with friends and family, the research will examine the influence of relationship difficulties with parents, friends, and romantic partners on the link between ADHD and depression. By investigating how these interpersonal challenges contribute to the link across different life stages, the study aims to provide valuable insights for interventions.
4. Genetic and environmental factors: By dissecting the associations between ADHD, depression, and the identified linking factors, the study will determine whether these factors are primarily influenced by genes or if they have the potential to cause depression in young individuals with ADHD. This crucial insight will guide the development of interventions aimed at reducing depression risk.

This work will be coproduced with youth advisory groups based at the Wolfson Centre and mental health charity McPin.

By better understanding the link between ADHD and depression, researchers aspire to contribute to more effective interventions and improve the lives of young individuals affected by these conditions.