If you live with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), you might notice that feeling anxious isn’t unusual. In fact, anxiety is one of the most common conditions to occur alongside ADHD, and it’s more than just a coincidence. Mental health experts have long observed a strong connection between the two, especially in adults.
But why do these two conditions overlap so frequently? And what does that mean for diagnosis, daily life, and care?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and executive function. People with ADHD often struggle with staying organized, completing tasks, or sitting still for long periods. On the other hand, anxiety disorders—such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)—involve persistent feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear that interfere with daily life.
Though they are distinct conditions, ADHD and anxiety frequently coexist. Studies estimate that nearly 50% of adults with ADHD also meet the criteria for at least one anxiety disorder.
There are several reasons why ADHD and anxiety are often found together:
Shared Brain Pathways: Both conditions involve brain areas responsible for attention, emotion regulation, and stress response, including the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala.
Functional Impacts of ADHD: The daily challenges of managing ADHD symptoms—such as missed deadlines, forgotten tasks, or social difficulties—can lead to chronic stress. Over time, this stress may develop into anxiety.
Genetic and Environmental Factors: Some individuals may inherit a predisposition to both ADHD and anxiety, while environmental stressors during childhood can also increase risk.
Overlapping Symptoms: Difficulty focusing, restlessness, and sleep problems can appear in both conditions, making it harder to distinguish one from the other without a thorough assessment.
When ADHD and anxiety co-occur, they can interact in complex ways. For example:
Anxiety might make it harder to concentrate, which can worsen ADHD symptoms.
ADHD-related forgetfulness or impulsivity might trigger anxious thoughts about failure or social judgment.
People may misinterpret anxiety as just being “stressed out” or ADHD as simply being “disorganized,” delaying appropriate support.
That’s why a proper diagnosis is crucial. Mental health providers often use structured interviews, behavior scales, and medical history to differentiate and evaluate both conditions.
Treatment for ADHD and anxiety may involve a combination of strategies, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Effective for both anxiety and ADHD, CBT helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies.
Medication: Stimulant and non-stimulant medications are common for ADHD, while SSRIs or anti-anxiety medications are often prescribed for anxiety. When both conditions are present, treatment must be carefully managed to avoid worsening one while treating the other.
Lifestyle Support: Regular exercise, structured routines, mindfulness, and reducing screen time can also make a significant difference.
To better understand and support individuals living with both ADHD and anxiety, researchers are conducting clinical studies focused specifically on this population. One such study is currently enrolling adults ages 18 to 65 who have been diagnosed with ADHD and either Generalized Anxiety Disorder or Social Anxiety Disorder. If eligible, participants may receive study-related care at no cost and compensation for time and travel.
Interested in learning more? [Check your eligibility here].