Paper: ‘Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Patients by Naia Sáez-Francàs et al. (2012)’
Paper: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Patients by Naia Sáez-Francàs et al. (2012)
Key Insights:
In a study of 158 adults with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, nearly 30% had a childhood history of ADHD and around 20% still met criteria for ADHD in adulthood.
Those with both ADHD and CFS experienced earlier illness onset, greater anxiety and depression, and higher fatigue severity.
The authors concluded that ADHD appears to be relatively common among CFS patients and may contribute to a more complex or intense clinical picture.
Why It Matters for Recovery and Neurodivergence:
This research highlights a significant overlap between neurodivergence and chronic illness. It suggests that traits such as ADHD could influence not only the onset but also the experience and recovery patterns of fatigue-related conditions. Understanding these links may help shape more effective, trauma-informed recovery approaches that include nervous system regulation and sensory processing support.
Link to Paper: PubMed – Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Patients https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22648008/
