Investigating the relationship between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, obligatory exercise and exercise addiction

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Abstract

Exercise interventions are gaining prominence for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults, in part due to limitations of medications which are currently the first line and most effective treatments. However, those with ADHD are more likely to experience substance and behavioural addictions, meaning new treatments must be considered in this context. No study to date has investigated whether those with ADHD are more likely to experience exercise dependency or addiction, which should be determined prior to exercise interventions being established. This study assessed ADHD traits, exercise levels and obligation, and exercise addiction using the exercise addiction inventory (EAI) and the exercise dependence scale (EDS) in Healthy Controls (HC, N=125), people with ADHD taking medication (ADHD-M, N=70) and with ADHD not receiving medication (ADHD-U, N=42). There were no group differences in overall activity levels or exercise obligation across the three groups. However, the ADHD-M group showed higher levels of exercise fixation and significantly greater withdrawal from exercise, according to the EAI. Additionally, whilst only a small number exhibited signs of exercise dependency on the EDS overall, those with ADHD, irrespective of whether they were taking medication, were more likely to demonstrate symptomatic non-dependency rather than asymptomatic non-dependency. Given these results, caution is recommended for exercise interventions at this stage and more research is required to establish safety.
Original languageEnglish
JournalInternational Journal of Mental Health and Addiction
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 22 Sept 2021

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