Exploring the associations between cardiorespiratory fitness, executive function, and mental health, along with unique barriers and facilitators to physical activity for adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Higher cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is associated with better executive function and mental health in neurotypical populations. However, these associations warrant investigation for adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who experience executive dysfunction and worse mental health. Adults with ADHD also tend to have lower engagement in physical activity, which contributes to CRF, but the reasons for this are unknown. Using mixed methods, the purpose of this dissertation was to explore associations between CRF and executive functions (Study 1), and mental health (Study 2), and to understand barriers and facilitators to physical activity in an adult ADHD sample (Study 3).

Data from Study 1 reveal the association between higher CRF and better inhibitory control; surprisingly, the same associations with CRF were not observed for cognitive flexibility and working memory, suggesting a selective association between CRF and inhibitory control. In Study 2, although adults with ADHD reported significantly higher symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress than controls, those with higher CRF had better mental health. Together, the findings from Studies 1 and 2 suggest that physical activity interventions aimed at increasing CRF may provide adults with ADHD support for symptom management and mental health. Finally, Study 3 documents the unique barriers and facilitators to getting physically active as described by adults with ADHD. Through semi-structured interviews, the results revealed unique ADHD-related barriers and facilitators to being physically active such that their symptoms could act as both a barrier and facilitator depending on the context. Overall, the results of this dissertation provide valuable information for researchers designing future interventions and professionals recommending physical activity for those with ADHD, with the ultimate goal of creating an inclusive context for movement that is more enjoyable, feasible, and promotes adherence over the long term.