Joint Study by Schneider Children's Medical Center and Haifa University Finds: Hyperactive Children May Be at Higher Risk of Suicide

The study focused on children aged 7-12 who were admitted to the Emergency Medicine department at Schneider Children's for suicide risk assessment. The findings show that 47.9% of the children reported suicidal thoughts, 31% had attempted suicide, and 38% reported engaging in self-harm without suicidal intent..

"Hyperactivity affects more than just behavior—it has a profound emotional impact. These children often face rejection and struggles at school and home, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and frustration, increasing their suicide risk," explained Oren Shahnovsky, a doctoral student in the Department of Community Mental Health at the University of Haifa and one of the study's authors .

In recent years, there has been a 200% rise in suicidal behaviors among children worldwide. Many factors contribute to this alarming trend, including poor emotional regulation and impulsivity. According to the researchers, impulsivity—along with hyperactivity—is a key characteristic of ADHD, placing children with this condition at greater risk for suicidal behavior.

While most previous studies have focused on adolescents, this joint research initiative—led by the Suicide Research Lab under Dr. Shira Barzilay from the University of Haifa's Department of Community Mental Health, Prof.. Alan Apter, and the Mental Health Division at Schneider Children's Medical Center headed by Dr. Noa Ben-Aroya-Milstein—shifted its focus to younger children aged 7-12. The study examined the relationship between ADHD symptoms and suicidality in this younger age group.

The study involved 72 children referred to Schneider Children's Emergency Medicine department due to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Both the children and their parents completed questionnaires assessing suicidality and ADHD symptoms.

The findings revealed a significant link between ADHD symptoms—particularly hyperactivity and inattention—and suicide attempts in children under 12. Among these symptoms, hyperactivity was found to have the strongest statistical correlation, underscoring its role in elevating suicide risk. Additionally, the study highlighted that children's self-reports were more strongly associated with suicidality than parental reports, emphasizing the importance of considering the child's perspective when evaluating their symptoms.

Interestingly, the study found no significant gender differences in reported suicidal behaviors among this age group, in contrast to adolescents, where suicidal thoughts and behaviors are more prevalent among girls.

The researchers concluded that hyperactivity symptoms significantly impact multiple aspects of a child's life. In addition to heightened risk for dangerous behaviors, including suicide, the children often face academic challenges, social difficulties, and strained family relationships. These struggles can create a cycle of perceived failure, exacerbating emotional distress. The findings highlight the critical need for tailored assessment and intervention for ADHD symptoms—particularly hyperactivity—as part of suicide prevention strategies.

Dr. Noa Ben-Aroya-Milstein and Dr. Shira Barzilay summarized:

"We know that early identification and appropriate treatment of these symptoms can prevent significant suffering and even save lives. It's essential to listen to children, recognize their needs early, and equip parents and educators with the tools to manage ADHD and hyperactivity. This holistic approach can enhance the children's mental health while empowering them to realize their unique strengths, such as creativity, imagination, courage, and the ability to focus intensively. By addressing both the challenges and opportunities associated with ADHD, we can help children develop in a healthy and positive way."