A 2021 study that features in BMC Psychiatry shows a strong correlation between ADHD and suicidal thoughts. In addition, the authors note that when they adjusted for other variables, ADHD remained an independent risk factor. This finding suggests that ADHD may directly cause higher rates of suicidal thoughts. It is important to note that as all of the participants were medical students in China, the findings may not be generalizable to other populations. However, other research suggests that certain behaviors common in people with ADHD, such as impulsivity, could contribute to suicide risk.