Clinical Correlations of ADHD Symptoms with Anxiety, Depression, and Self-Esteem in Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. This study explores the relationship between ADHD symptoms and the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues among medical students. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 210 medical students. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) were employed. ADHD risk was assessed using the dichotomized scoring of the ASRS. Logistic regression models evaluating the impact of ADHD symptoms on anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. The study found that 24% of participants were at high risk for ADHD. There was no significant difference in academic success, smoking habits, or perceived socioeconomic status between high and low-ADHD-risk groups. However, high-risk ADHD participants showed significantly worse scores in anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. Gender differences in ADHD prevalence were not observed. A strong relationship was identified between ADHD symptoms and increased anxiety and depression. Notably, 47% of students scored above the threshold for depression and 41% for anxiety. Logistic regression analysis revealed that high ADHD risk increased the scores for anxiety and depression but had no significant effect on self-esteem. The high prevalence of ADHD symptoms among medical students is a significant concern, particularly given their association with increased anxiety and depression. Early identification and treatment of ADHD in youth could potentially mitigate the development of mood symptoms and prevent the decline in self-esteem