Inflammation: a new target for trauma and chronic stress in ADHD

Growing evidence implicates low-grade inflammation in several psychiatric disorders, most convincingly in an inflammatory subtype of depression [1]. In ADHD, however, the evidence is less consistent, and research in adults remains relatively sparse. Meta-analytic findings suggest alterations in selected inflammatory markers, including higher IL-6 and lower TNF-α, but effects are heterogeneous and sensitive to individual studies, providing no clear evidence for a uniform inflammatory phenotype in ADHD [2].

One possibility is that this heterogeneity partly reflects differences in exposure to chronic stress and adversity. The findings of our group support this idea: in adults with ADHD, a more pronounced inflammatory phenotype was associated with higher levels of perceived chronic stress, suggesting that stress may contribute to inflammatory alterations in a subgroup of patients [3]. These findings will be situated within the broader literature on inflammation in ADHD, including meta-analytic evidence, and recent work on early-life adversity and chronic stress as potential contributors to the persistence of ADHD into adulthood [4]. Together, these findings raise the possibility that inflammation is not a core feature of ADHD itself, but may instead reflect additional biological burden associated with prolonged stress and adversity. Therefore, rather than viewing inflammation as a straightforward therapeutic target, the presenter will discuss whether chronic stress and its downstream consequences should receive greater attention in ADHD treatment. The session will conclude with an open discussion of possible psychological, lifestyle and inflammation-informed approaches, and whether targeting these processes could improve functioning and quality of life.

[1] PMID:40172869 [2] PMID:35660454 [3] PMID:38238292 [4] PMID:41138932