Evaluation of the relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and nonsuicidal self injury: A controlled study with a depression group

Aim: This study aims to investigate the effects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) nonsuicidal self injury(NSSI) behaviors by comparing the ADHD group with the control group diagnosed with depression, a condition frequently studied for NSSI behaviors and difficulties in emotional regulation. Subject: It is widely recognized that challenges in managing emotions in individuals with depression establish a basis for engaging in NSSI behaviours. Along with the primary symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity impulsivity, ADHD is accompanied by a variety of mental health symptoms and impairments, including excessive mind-wandering, restlessness and emotional dysregulation. ADHD-related emotional dysregulation increases the chances of engaging in NSSI and suicide. Materials and Methods: The study included 45 patients who were diagnosed with ADHD and 48 individuals in the control group who were diagnosed with depression. Participants were required to fill out a sociodemographic data form, an adult ADHD scale, the inventory of statements about self-injury (ISAS), the difficulties in emotion regulation scale (DERS), and the mind excessive wandering scale (MEWS). Results: Both groups reported similar NSSI behaviours and challenges in emotional regulation. The presence of MEWS was more common in the ADHD group and highly correlated with ADHD symptoms (p < 0.01, r = 0.705). Compared to the control group, the ADHD group experienced more childhood accidents, academic issues (grade repetition, disciplinary actions), and ongoing adult troubles (traffic violations) (p < 0.01). Conclusion: When diagnosing and treating ADHD, it is crucial to take into account emotional symptoms and NSSI behaviours alongside the primary symptoms. Impulsivity and emotional symptoms can obscure the underlying diagnosis of ADHD in persons who engage in self-harm behaviours. ADHD should be considered alongside clinical conditions such as depression and personality disorders (borderline, antisocial).