Does untreated ADHD affect life expectancy?

Some research suggests that those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have shorter lives than people without ADHD.

A 2022 study using data from the United States found a reduced life span in those who had ever received an ADHD diagnosis, particularly in people between the ages of 46 and 64.

Similarly, a 2025 study in the United Kingdom found that male adults with ADHD lived 6.78 years less, on average, than those without. For female adults, the difference was higher, at 8.64 years.

These studies included adults with an official ADHD diagnosis, but did not compare those receiving treatment to those not receiving treatment. Currently, there are no specific studies on this.

However, the authors of the UK study speculate that self-management of ADHD via smoking, drug use, or other high risk behaviors could play a role.

A 2021 review also notes that people with ADHD have an increased risk of accidents and injuries. This risk reduces with the use of ADHD medications.

It is important to note that these findings may not apply to other countries, and that neither study accounted for undiagnosed adults. In the UK, most adults with ADHD do not have an official diagnosis.

Additionally, these figures are averages, meaning some people will live longer than they suggest. Having ADHD, in itself, is not a guarantee of a shorter life.

Further research on the relationship between ADHD and life expectancy, as well as measures to improve it, is necessary.