Sex differences in the persistence of ADHD in relation to childhood adversity and stress exposure

2026-07-22

STRESSADHD aims to enhance understanding of sex differences in the persistence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) into adulthood, particularly in relation to adverse childhood events (ACEs) and stress exposure. ADHD is a common childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorder. Research has predominantly focused on boys with ADHD while girls with ADHD are often underdiagnosed and undertreated, potentially leading to adverse consequences later in life. There is still limited understanding of why ADHD sometimes remits yet in the majority of cases persists into adulthood. This holds especially for females. STRESSADHD will address this gap by investigating the extent to which persistence in females, including the onset and course of comorbid conditions, can be explained by ACEs and high stress exposure. STRESSADHD will use very large population-based cohort studies linked with national registries and genomic data, a combination uniquely suited for this research. Improved understanding of differences between males and females in relation to ACEs, stress exposure, persistence and comorbid conditions in ADHD will have important clinical implications. STRESSADHD will highlight the importance of sex differences in ADHD and raise awareness about its substantial burden. Sharing our knowledge with health care professionals, individuals with ADHD, and the general public STRESSADHD will improve identification, diagnosis and treatment in males and females.

Netherlands

2026-02-15