Do Girls with ADHD Experience Higher Rates of Self-Harm or Suicidal Tendencies?

PostedSeptember 24, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 29, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Self-harm in girls with ADHD is a significant concern, as these individuals are at a higher risk of engaging in self-destructive behaviours compared to those without ADHD. One of the key factors contributing to this increased risk is emotional dysregulation. Girls with ADHD often struggle to manage their emotions effectively, leading to overwhelming feelings of frustration, sadness, or anger, which may contribute to suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviours.

zThe combination of ADHD symptoms and mental health struggles can create a vicious cycle for girls, as they face difficulties with focus, organisation, and emotional control. These challenges can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, which are known risk factors for self-harm. Additionally, the lack of proper diagnosis and support can exacerbate these issues, further increasing the likelihood of self-destructive behaviours.

Common Symptoms

Emotional Dysregulation

Girls with ADHD often experience intense emotional reactions that are hard to manage. This emotional dysregulation can lead to overwhelming feelings that may result in self-harm in girls with ADHD or suicidal tendencies.

Low Self-Esteem and Isolation

The challenges of ADHD, combined with a lack of understanding and support, can cause feelings of isolation and low self-worth. These feelings can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and self-harming behaviours as girls struggle to cope with their emotions.

Recognising the higher risk of self-harm in girls with ADHD is essential for providing early intervention and support. Addressing both ADHD symptoms and associated emotional challenges can reduce the risk of self-destructive behaviours and improve overall mental health.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Girls and women with ADHD.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.