The ADHD-Anxiety Connection: Why They Often Coexist

If you have ADHD and often feel anxious, you are far from alone. Research shows that up to 50% of adults with ADHD also meet criteria for an anxiety disorder. Understanding this connection is crucial for getting the right treatment and support.

Why ADHD and Anxiety So Often Coexist

The relationship between ADHD and anxiety is complex and bidirectional. Several factors contribute to their frequent co-occurrence:

Key Reasons for the Overlap

Chronic stress: Years of struggling with ADHD symptoms often leads to chronic stress and worry about performance
Executive function deficits: Difficulty with planning and organization creates constant low-level anxiety
Rejection sensitivity: ADHD-related rejection sensitive dysphoria can look and feel like social anxiety
Shared neurobiology: Both conditions involve dysregulation of norepinephrine and dopamine systems

Symptoms That Look Like Both

Some symptoms are shared between ADHD and anxiety, making diagnosis challenging:

Could Be ADHD

Restlessness and fidgeting
Difficulty concentrating
Sleep problems
Racing thoughts
Irritability

Could Be Anxiety

Restlessness and fidgeting
Difficulty concentrating
Sleep problems
Racing thoughts
Irritability

The key difference often lies in the root cause. With ADHD, these symptoms typically stem from understimulation and difficulty regulating attention. With anxiety, they stem from worry and fear responses.

How Medication Affects Both Conditions

ADHD medications can have different effects on anxiety:

For some people: Stimulant medication actually reduces anxiety by improving executive function and reducing the chaos that causes worry.

For others: Stimulants can worsen anxiety symptoms, particularly at higher doses or during the medication crash period.

Non-stimulants: Medications like atomoxetine (Strattera) or guanfacine may be better options for those with significant anxiety.

Treatment Approaches That Work

When ADHD and anxiety coexist, treatment often needs to address both:

1
Accurate diagnosis first
Work with a clinician who understands both conditions to determine which is primary
2
Medication optimization
Finding the right medication and dose that helps ADHD without worsening anxiety
3
Cognitive behavioral therapy
CBT adapted for ADHD can address both attention issues and anxiety patterns
4
Lifestyle factors
Exercise, sleep hygiene, and stress management benefit both conditions

Understand Your Anxiety Patterns

Our free ADHD & Anxiety assessment helps you identify how these conditions interact for you specifically.

Take Free Assessment

The Bottom Line

ADHD and anxiety frequently coexist, and understanding this relationship is essential for effective treatment. If you are struggling with both, know that:

You are not imagining the connection - it is well-documented in research
Treatment that addresses both conditions is more effective than treating one alone
Finding the right medication balance takes time but is achievable