| Summary: | Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that can cause significant impairments in daily life. Often, people are diagnosed with other psychiatric problems at the time of their ADHD diagnoses, or before. ADHD symptoms and comorbid disorders can affect the quality of life of those who have it. The aim of the current study was to provide insight into gender differences in comorbid psychiatric disorders in adults with ADHD as well as differences in their self-reported quality of life. Methods: The medical records and referral notes of 1001 patients, who were assessed for ADHD at the ADHD clinic at Landspítali-The National University Hospital of Iceland between 2013 and 2021, were obtained and analysed. Background information, ICD-10 diagnoses, and scores on psychological scales (ADHD rating scale, The Depression Anxiety Stress Scales, and The Adult ADHD Quality of Life Scale) were obtained and analysed. Results showed that women are more likely to have suffered from depression and anxiety prior to their ADHD diagnosis. Results also showed that females are more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety disorders and experience more stress at the time of their ADHD diagnosis, than their male counterparts. There was not a significant gender difference in the frequency of other psychiatric disorders at the time of the ADHD diagnosis. The results also showed that females are more likely to report lower quality of life and that higher scores on the ADHD rating scale were correlated with lower self-reported quality of life. Conclusions: These findings show that there is indeed a gender difference in comorbid and previous psychiatric difficulties for those who suffer from ADHD. The findings also show that ADHD symptoms are related to self-reported quality of life. It is important to continue studies in this field so that those suffering from ADHD can be detected and diagnosed earlier, to increase their quality of life and to prevent and treat other disorders.
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