Faculty Publications

Self-reported Lifetime ADHD Diagnosis and Sexual and Gender Minority Identities in College Students

Document Type

Article

Keywords

ADHD, college, gender minority, sexual minority, university

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Journal of Gay and Lesbian Mental Health

Abstract

Introduction: We examined the intersection of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sexual/gender minority (SM/GM) identity in college students. Methods: Secondary analysis of the American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment (ACHA-NCHA) III data was utilized. Participants were 82,000+ college students from 75 universities. We used ACHA-NCHA-III measures including demographics, self-reported ADHD, and mental health. Results: We found a 14.5% prevalence of ADHD in the SM group, compared to a 7.5% rate among the heterosexual group and a 23.9% prevalence of ADHD in the GM group, compared to an 8.6% rate among the cisgender group. College students who endorsed SM/GM identities and an ADHD diagnosis had the highest levels of loneliness and suicidality. Conclusion: SM/GM identities are more prevalent in college students with ADHD and are associated with loneliness and suicidality.

Department

Department of Psychology

Original Publication Date

9-25-2025

DOI of published version

10.1080/19359705.2024.2446183

Link to Full Text

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