The relationship between ADHD and anxiety is more than just a coincidence. If you’re struggling with attention issues and overwhelming worry, you’re not alone. Many people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) also experience anxiety disorders, making everyday life feel even more difficult.
Understanding how these two mental disorders interact is key to managing both effectively. This article will provide information about the connection between ADHD and anxiety, as well as how to find treatment and recovery resources to manage these conditions. If you or someone you love needs treatment to address mental health or substance use disorders, contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists now.
ADHD and Anxiety: A Common Co-Occurrence
Research consistently shows that ADHD and anxiety often go hand in hand. In fact, one major research study reported that over 50% of people with ADHD also meet criteria for an anxiety disorder, a phenomenon known as comorbid anxiety.
Comorbid disorders complicate the diagnostic and treatment process. Individuals with both ADHD and anxiety experience more intense core symptoms, such as trouble concentrating, muscle tension, sleep problems, and emotional dysregulation. These overlapping symptoms often lead to misdiagnosis or delayed clinical assessment, especially in young adults.
Understanding ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition typically diagnosed in childhood but often lasting into young adulthood and beyond.
Its core symptoms include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Impulsivity
- Hyperactivity
- Poor working memory
- Impaired executive functioning
These symptoms can cause problems in overall functioning, including difficulties with school, relationships, work, and mental health.
While often seen in children, adult ADHD is more common than many realize. Many adults were never diagnosed as kids and may now find themselves battling focus issues, restlessness, and constant worry—hallmarks of both ADHD and anxiety.
Understanding Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders include several conditions characterized by anxious feelings, fear, and excessive worrying that interfere with daily life.
Some common forms include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) – persistent, everyday anxiety, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance
- Panic disorder – sudden and intense episodes of fear
- Social anxiety or social phobia – extreme fear of social situations
- Separation anxiety disorder – often seen in anxious children, but can continue into adulthood
These disorders are categorized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association.
Anxiety symptoms can include:
- Racing thoughts
- Difficulty concentrating
- Restlessness
- Fatigue
- Muscle tension
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping
Accurate diagnosis is a critical first step in managing mental health conditions like ADHD and anxiety. Contact the mental health specialists at First Step Behavioral Health to learn about our assessment and treatment programs.
How ADHD Makes Anxiety Worse
The clinical presentation of someone with both ADHD and anxiety can be complex. ADHD symptoms often worsen under stress, while co-occurring anxiety increases the struggle to regulate focus and emotions.
This combination can lead to:
- Working memory overload
- Increased sleep disturbance
- Escalated anxious feelings from repeated failures at school, work, or relationships
- Social withdrawal due to fear of judgment
In other words, ADHD symptoms worsen in the presence of comorbid anxiety disorders, leading to a negative spiral of self-doubt, low self-esteem, and isolation.
The Role of Genetics and Environment
Research suggests that genetics and environment can impact the development of ADHD, substance use disorder, and other mental health conditions. Studies point to both genetic and environmental influences as causes of these psychiatric disorders. Family history is a major risk factor, as is early-life stress.
Children exposed to trauma, neglect, or inconsistent parenting may develop both ADHD and anxiety symptoms. This is why the developmental period is so critical, especially in adolescent psychiatry.
Common Challenges in Daily Life
ADHD and anxiety can make many aspects of life more challenging. Living with comorbid ADHD and anxiety presents several real-life challenges.
These include
- Medication management becomes more complicated, especially if stimulant medication worsens anxiety.
- People may avoid important responsibilities due to a fear of failure.
- Sleep suffers, increasing irritability, and impairing executive functioning.
- Strained relationships with family members due to miscommunication or a lack of understanding.
- Poor performance at work or school caused by difficulty concentrating and sleep disturbance.
People with these conditions may require additional support as they navigate them.
Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis
Proper diagnosis involves a comprehensive clinical assessment by a qualified clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, or trained clinician.
The goal is to distinguish between:
- ADHD symptoms (inattention, hyperactivity)
- Anxiety symptoms (worry, avoidance)
- Shared symptoms (trouble concentrating, restlessness)
Diagnosing comorbid disorders accurately is critical, especially because treatment plans differ for each condition. Professionals use tools like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, interviews, and behavioral assessments.
Treatment Options: A Dual Approach
Comprehensive treatment for ADHD and anxiety can help people manage their symptoms effectively, allowing them to improve functioning and quality of life. Here is what to expect in a comprehensive treatment program.
1. ADHD Medication & Anxiety Management
ADHD medication, typically stimulant medications, can help with focus but may intensify anxious feelings in some. Non-stimulant options or careful medication management by a specialist can reduce risks.
For anxiety, options include:
- SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
- Anti-anxiety medications (short-term use)
- Behavioral therapy
2. Psychotherapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is effective for co-occurring anxiety and ADHD struggles. It teaches individuals how to:
- Identify negative thought patterns
- Learn relaxation techniques
- Improve organization and planning
- Manage anxious feelings
Family therapy and social skills training may also benefit children with ADHD and anxious children.
3. Multimodal Approaches
A large research study found that combining medication, behavioral therapy, school support, and parenting strategies is the most effective plan for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD.
Coping Strategies for Daily Life
Whether you’re an adult or supporting someone through these challenges, there are everyday strategies that can help.
These include:
- Routine and structure reduce unpredictability and anxiety.
- Break tasks into small steps to avoid overwhelm.
- Prioritize sleep hygiene—regular sleep reduces sleep disturbance and boosts focus.
- Use mindfulness and relaxation techniques to calm the mind.
- Lean on support from family members, friends, or the community.
- Don’t hesitate to seek professional help. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
Seeking comprehensive treatment is a decisive step toward lifelong symptom management. Take the first step of your mental health journey by contacting First Step Behavioral Health.
Find Treatment and Support Now
Understanding the relationship between ADHD and anxiety has deep clinical implications. Clinicians must recognize how comorbid anxiety disorders can complicate the clinical characteristics of ADHD. Treatment must be tailored, compassionate, and integrated.
Recovery is possible—even in the face of attention disorders, mood disorders, and co-occurring conditions. With awareness, accurate diagnosis, and a customized approach to care, there is hope for healing.
If you’re struggling with symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, know that you’re not alone. Compassionate help is available at First Step Behavioral Health. Reaching out to our intake team is the first step toward reclaiming your life. Contact us now to explore our programs or to schedule your initial assessment appointment.
FAQ: ADHD and Anxiety
1. Can anxiety be mistaken for ADHD in adults?
Yes. Anxiety can mimic certain ADHD symptoms like difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and forgetfulness. However, the cause is different—ADHD stems from challenges in brain development and executive functioning, while anxiety is driven by excessive worry and fear. A qualified professional can help distinguish between them through a clinical assessment.
2. How do I know if I have both ADHD and anxiety or just one?
The best way to determine this is through a full evaluation by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. Key indicators of having both ADHD and anxiety may include chronic trouble focusing, combined with racing thoughts, muscle tension, and social anxiety. If anxiety intensifies when you try to stay organized or complete tasks, comorbid ADHD may be present.
3. Does treating one condition help the other?
Sometimes. For example, reducing anxiety through therapy or medication may improve performance on tasks involving focus and working memory. Likewise, effective ADHD medication can reduce the stress of daily dysfunction, easing anxiety. However, in comorbid disorders, treating only one condition often leads to incomplete relief. A dual-focus approach is typically more effective.
4. Are there specific therapies that work best for ADHD and anxiety together?
Yes. Therapies that target both behavior and thought patterns—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—are particularly effective. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based therapies also help individuals regulate emotions, reduce anxious feelings, and develop coping strategies for ADHD struggles.
5. Can lifestyle changes make a difference in managing both conditions?
Absolutely. Daily routines that include exercise, adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and relaxation techniques can alleviate symptoms of both conditions. Reducing caffeine intake, limiting screen time, and practicing time management can significantly reduce stress and improve overall functioning.
6. Is it possible for children with ADHD to outgrow their anxiety?
Sometimes. Anxious children may experience symptom reduction over time, particularly with early intervention and supportive environments. However, for some, separation anxiety disorder or other forms of anxiety can persist into young adulthood. Ongoing support during the developmental period is key to long-term success.
Sources
Jump to a Section
Call (855) 425-4846
