A new study highlights the often-overlooked challenges faced by women in relationships with partners diagnosed with ADHD. The research reveals that the partners' ADHD symptoms are linked to higher rates of depression and lower quality of life in women. However, women who engage in health-promoting activities experience fewer depressive symptoms and improved well-being. The findings suggest that ADHD treatment should not only focus on the individual with ADHD but also consider the well-being of their partners, offering new opportunities for supportive interventions. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects and develop targeted solutions.
A new study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders conducted by researchers Dana Zeides Taubin, Haya Fogel-Grinvald, and Prof. Adina Maeir, from the School of Occupational Therapy at Hebrew University, sheds light on the often-overlooked experiences of women in relationships with partners diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The research explores the connection between partners' ADHD symptoms and women's mental health and quality of life, offering valuable insights for clinicians and couples alike.
The study's results indicate that:
- Women partnered with individuals diagnosed with ADHD may face an increased risk of depressive symptoms and reduced quality of life.
- Partners with ADHD who have more difficulties in daily functioning are linked to higher levels of depression in women and a lower quality of life for them.
- Engagement in health-promoting activities (HPA) by women is positively linked to their quality of life and negatively associated with depressive symptoms.
This research has implications for clinical practice and underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to adult ADHD treatment. Clinicians are encouraged to consider not only the individual diagnosed with ADHD but also the experiences and well-being of their partners.
The study suggests that incorporating health-promoting activities into therapeutic strategies may be beneficial for partners of individuals with ADHD. This finding opens new avenues for developing supportive interventions tailored to this often-overlooked group.
The researchers noted: “Our findings emphasize the importance of viewing ADHD as a condition that impacts not only the individual but also their close relationships. By addressing the well-being of partners, we can take a more holistic approach to treatment, offering both individuals and couples the tools they need to improve their quality of life.”
While these findings are significant, the researchers emphasize the need for longitudinal studies to further examine the directionality of these associations and to develop targeted interventions. Such research could provide a more nuanced understanding of the long-term impacts of ADHD on relationships and partner well-being.
This study marks an important step in recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by partners of individuals with ADHD, paving the way for more inclusive and effective treatment approaches.
The research paper titled “Depressive Symptoms and Quality of Life Among Women Living With a Partner Diagnosed With ADHD” is now available at Journal of Attention Disorders and can be accessed at https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/10870547241280607
Researchers:
Dana Zeides Taubin, Haya Fogel-Grinvald, and Adina Maeir
Institution:
School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is Israel’s premier academic and research institution. With over 23,000 students from 90 countries, it is a hub for advancing scientific knowledge and holds a significant role in Israel’s civilian scientific research output, accounting for nearly 40% of it and has registered over 11,000 patents. The university’s faculty and alumni have earned eight Nobel Prizes, two Turing Awards a Fields Medal, underscoring their contributions to ground-breaking discoveries. In the global arena, the Hebrew University ranks 81st according to the Shanghai Ranking. To learn more about the university’s academic programs, research initiatives, and achievements, visit the official website at http://new.huji.ac.il/en
