ADHD treatment linked to reduced antidepressant use in adults

Adults with ADHD reduce antidepressant use after starting treatment, a nationwide Finnish study finds.

Why it matters

  • Proper ADHD diagnosis and treatment can reduce reliance on other psychiatric medications.
  • Highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis in mental health care.

By the numbers

  • Study includes adults diagnosed with ADHD between 2015 and 2020.
  • Antidepressant use dropped significantly after starting ADHD treatment.

The big picture

  • Suggests treating ADHD directly can reduce symptoms previously managed with other medications.
  • Indicates potential for more efficient mental health care with proper ADHD diagnosis.

What they're saying

  • Personal anecdotes support the study, noting relief from task completion and reduced self-blame.

Caveats

  • Study is observational; cannot prove causation.
  • Based on registry data, which may miss some details.

What’s next

  • Researchers plan to publish more sub-studies on comorbidities and causes of death among ADHD patients.