How are depression and anxiety interlinked with ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder commonly known as ADHD revolves around the inability to be attentive for a long period of time, hyperactivity, impulsiveness or a combination of the above characteristics. They can cause a great deal of difficulty, sometimes even leading to anxiety and depression. Generally, people receive an early diagnosis for ADHD in their childhood, but sometimes, the doctors can detect it only in their adulthood when they become victims of anxiety, depression or even both! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that almost 5% of children’s population is currently diagnosed with ADHD. From this, 42% are also detected with anxiety disorder while 33% are depression victims. The study further reveals that children with ADHD will continue to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression in their adulthood. With this being of such high relevancy, the blog will extensively talk about the different symptoms, effects and outline some guidelines that can benefit both adults and children. 

What are the symptoms?

Depression and ADHD can have common symptoms, however for different reasons. Both of them involve trouble concentration and feeling demotivated. Some of the common symptoms seen in both include:

• Lack of motivation 
• Find it difficult to focus or concentrate 
• Feeling there is no purpose to the activity or task
• Keeping up with the workload 
• Unorganized and losing track of time 
• Fatigue and feeling excessively tired
• Sleeping difficulties 
• Mood changes and irritability 

Effects of depression and anxiety in children with ADHD can be extremely challenging as they are still in the stages of emotional and physical development. They may not even be able to comprehend the changes that can lead to adverse effects. Some of the effects of depression and anxiety symptoms in children/adults with ADHD are:

• Diminishing self-esteem 
• Unusual behavior that can lead to bullying and isolation
• A drastic change in sleep cycle due to mood swings and low appetite
• Not attending school or failing in a test or exam 
• Acting withdrawn rather than overreacting 

Diagnosis

Diagnosing ADHD can be challenging as they are no medical, physical or genetic tests that can detect the condition. Instead, doctors generally ask for specific questions and collate the necessary information. 

Supporting a child

Parents and caretakers are advised to monitor behavioral changes and look for further signs and symptoms that are directly associated with ADHD. 

• Frequent communication with the child’s teacher – This enables parents to understand the progress and the behavior of their child in order for them to further mold them in a similar direction. Also, the teachers and caretakers will be able to provide some alternative methods and suggestions that can be initiated. 
• Follow a set structure and routine – This can help children develop organization and management skills which are very important especially for children who are suffering from ADHD. In fact, teachers can also work towards this and ensure that the child is following the routine even in school. 
• Transparent communication with the child – This is extremely crucial because as a parent it is advisable to have a seamless communication. This will in turn make them feel like they are not alone and you would also be able to spot the signs of any depression at a very early stage. 

Our specialists at Evolve Brain Training can share their expertise in treating children and adults with ADHD. We offer an effective and easy-going approach that is 100% drug or medication free. For more information on ADHD treatment in dubai, drop your contact details and we will call you shortly!

Dr. Upasana Gala is the founder and CEO of Evolve Brain Training, a Neurofeedback-centered institute that focuses on using non-invasive brain training techniques to maximize the brain's true potential.