Can ADHD stem from depression?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression can go hand-in-hand. Doctors sometimes call them comorbid or coexisting conditions, meaning you can have both at the same time. ADHD is a brain disorder that makes it hard to focus.

Can I have ADHD anxiety and depression at the same time?

The ADHD has been diagnosed, but the comorbid disorder has not been. Doctors sometimes mistakenly chalk up depressive and anxiety symptoms to the ADHD diagnosis, as in Antonio’s case. The comorbid disorder can be independent of the ADHD (primary) or a direct result of ADHD symptoms (secondary).

What is it like to have ADHD depression and anxiety?

People with ADHD are typically more impulsive than others. Because those with ADHD may act without fully understanding the consequences of their actions, problems can eventually overwhelm the person – which can lead to anxiety and depression.

Can anxiety be misdiagnosed as ADHD?

Why anxiety is sometimes misdiagnosed as ADHD It’s not uncommon for people with anxiety to be misdiagnosed with ADHD, or vice versa. Take trouble with paying attention, for example. Both anxiety and ADHD can cause people to tune out and get caught up in their emotions — just for different reasons.

Can anxiety and depression be mistaken for ADHD?

In other cases, the symptoms of ADHD can simply be confused with those of anxiety or depression, when those conditions aren’t actually present. Having ADHD and another of these conditions can make the symptoms of each one worse, especially if one of the conditions goes untreated.

Can anxiety cause poor concentration and poor focus?

Poor concentration and lack of focus are common symptoms of anxiety disorder. Understanding how anxiety can affect cognitive functioning is the first step in creating a strategy for managing the anxiety and inability to focus.

What is the difference between ADHD and depression?

ADHD and depression share some of the same symptoms, which can make it difficult to tell the two conditions apart. Difficulty focusing or concentrating and restlessness, for example, can be symptoms of both conditions. Sleep disorders and mood changes can also be signs of both conditions.

Can ADHD cause anxiety and restlessness?

Restlessness and difficulty relaxing, as well as difficult focusing or concentrating can be symptoms of both anxiety and ADHD. About 50 percent of adults with ADHD also have an anxiety disorder. Like with depression, anxiety can develop alongside ADHD or it can be caused by ADHD.