The role of physical activity and unhealthy diet on ADHD symptoms and emotional well-being in adolescents diagnosed with ADHD

Studies have indicated that healthier dietary pattern and physical activity can improve mental health in the general population. However, limited amount of researches have examined these non-pharmacological interventions on ADHD symptoms and emotional well-being among adolescents diagnosed with ADHD. The aim of this study was to examine this relationship among 13-16 years old adolescents diagnosed with ADHD. The data used in this study came from the 2014 annual population-based, Youth in Iceland, survey. ADHD symptoms were assessed using 18-items self-reported questionnaire of statements related to ADHD symptoms. Emotional well-being was assessed using 10 depression items and four anxiety items from the SCL-90. Results revealed that male had more ADHD symptoms than female. Students low on unhealthy diets showed fewer ADHD symptoms than those high on unhealthy diet. There was no difference on ADHD symptoms after level of physical activity. Students low on unhealthy diet showed more positive emotional well-being than those high on unhealthy diet. Students high on physical activity showed more positive emotional well-being than those who engaged in low or moderated physical activity. Female showed more negative symptoms of emotional well-being than males. Keywords: ADHD, physical activity, depression, anxiety, unhealthy diet

Author dc:creator

• Lára Borg Bolladóttir 1993-

Contributors dc:contributor

• Háskólinn í Reykjavík

• Sálfræði
• ADHD
• Mataræði
• Ungt fólk
• Psychology
• Diet
• Adolescents

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1946/25673

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:skemman.is:1946/25673