Researchers from the University of Southampton say people with ADHD need more support and medication after it found medications play an important role in improving quality of life.

The research, published in The Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, highlights the likely impact of shortages of certain ADHD medications.

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is primarily characterised by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

These symptoms can negatively impact social interactions and relationships, work, education, and the ability to perform daily tasks.

Dr Alessio Bellato, a lecturer in psychology at the University of Southampton and the study's lead author, said: "People with ADHD report lower quality of life in areas such as work productivity, social and family life, and self-esteem, compared to their neurotypical peers.

"This study shows that medications play an important role in improving quality of life for those with the condition."

The study evaluated the effects of stimulant (amphetamines and methylphenidate) and non-stimulant (atomoxetine) drugs on the quality of life of individuals with ADHD.

The analysis included 17 placebo-controlled trials involving more than 5,000 participants.

Both stimulant and non-stimulant drugs were significantly more effective in improving quality of life than placebo.

However, while these drugs were found to have a medium to high effect on core ADHD symptoms, their impact on quality of life was found to be in the small-to-medium range.

Professor David Coghill from the University of Melbourne, a co-author on the paper, said: "This disparity shows that, for most people, targeting core symptoms through medication alone is unlikely to be enough to counter the impact of ADHD on quality of life.

"More research is needed to find out whether combining medication with other approaches can lead to further improvements in well-being."

Dr Bellato added: "More research is also needed to better understand how these medications affect quality of life.

"It could be that reducing the core symptoms of ADHD leads to more efficient task management and this results in better academic and professional outcomes.

"Medications may also help to stabilise emotional dysregulation, which might promote emotional well-being and higher self-esteem."