Scientists believe there may be a link between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and schizophrenia – but the jury is still out, according to a report published by Medical News Today.
The article quotes a study published in the prestigious journal JAMA Psychiatry that cited “growing evidence” of an association between ADHD in childhood and subsequent psychotic disorders.
Researchers in France who carried out a meta-analysis of 12 studies and 1.85 million participants found an increase in the risk of psychotic disorder associated with a childhood diagnosis of ADHD, as compared to those who were not diagnosed with ADHD during childhood.
“These findings suggest that childhood ADHD is associated with an increased risk of developing a psychotic disorder, and patients need follow-up even after 18 years of age,” the researchers wrote.
In a separate study published by the National Library of Medicine’s PubMed Central, researchers in Sweden found that first-degree relatives of those with ADHD were at increased risk of both bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
“These findings suggest that co-occurring ADHD and bipolar disorder and ADHD plus schizophrenia are due to shared genetic factors, rather than representing completely etiologically distinct sub-syndromes,” the researchers wrote.
What does all this mean?
Bottom line: It is important for parents of children with ADHD to understand that early treatment means a better outcome. Yes, ADHD is a physical condition and requires treatment, but parents must stay vigilant for any signs of behavior that does not reflect a typical ADHD diagnosis.
Although symptoms of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia can show up in childhood, both are more likely to first occur in late adolescence or early adulthood.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th Edition (DSM-V) classifies schizophrenia and ADHD as completely different conditions. Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder, while ADHD is a neurobehavioral disorder.
Nevertheless, the risk clearly exists, and the recommendation for follow-up at age 18 is well reasoned. Parents should take it seriously.