Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety are mental health disorders that usually occur together. 50% of adults and 30% of children with ADHD also have an anxiety disorder, according to the American Anxiety and Depression Association.
This fact also makes sense given the nature of both cases. The nature of anxiety is the fear of uncertainty. ADHD itself generates uncertainty. This is mainly due to the challenges it creates at every step of people’s life path. People with ADHD have difficulty planning and organizing tasks, managing time, and following daily routines. Struggling with normal, everyday tasks can be very stressful and exhausting. This stress can eventually lead to anxiety.
On this note, let’s delve a little deeper into the relationship between these two conditions and what it means to combine them.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Anxiety
Anxiety in adults with ADHD may be exacerbated by their symptoms. In ADHD, the brain struggles to effectively synthesize dopamine and serotonin. This means that levels of these neurotransmitters are sometimes too high or too low, causing constant mood swings.
If a person has ADHD, it will be more difficult to understand and determine detection due to the overlap of symptoms between the two conditions.
ADHD is a condition that affects a person from early childhood and may cause symptoms such as:
- lack of impulse control,
- Hyperactivity,
- lack of attention,
- fidget
- Difficulty organizing and completing tasks, etc.
On the other hand, an anxiety disorder is much more than just feeling anxious. It is a serious and often severe mental disorder. It makes you jittery, causes trouble sleeping, and causes extreme fear and tension. Having an anxiety disorder means having symptoms that are so severe that they affect an individual’s overall functioning.
There is a subtle difference between the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety. While the symptoms of ADHD are more concerned with focus and concentration, anxiety involves feelings of intense fear and nervousness.
What does it mean to have both anxiety and ADHD?
So far, clinicians have not found clear reasons why anxiety and ADHD occur in a single individual. Genetics may be responsible for the conditions and may also cause comorbidity.
However, anxiety is often not a consistent problem with ADHD. However, it can occur in short and long-term episodes at different times. Here are some signs of anxiety in children and adults with ADHD to help you better understand the circumstances and seek help in a timely manner.
Symptoms in children:
- Agitation and controversy.
- Withdrawal from social situations.
- Having an intense fear of seemingly normal circumstances.
- Constantly worrying about something bad happening.
Symptoms in adults:
- Frequent outbursts of anger
- Difficulty dealing with criticism
- sleep problems
- Feeling bored
- Avoid social situations
Read more: Explain the main categories of anger management.
treatment or treatment
It is now clear that the symptoms of ADHD, such as insomnia, inattention, etc., can overlap with the symptoms of anxiety. However, both conditions need separate treatments. Your doctor may suggest the following treatment options:
- cognitive behavioral therapy,
- Meditation,
- relaxation techniques
- pharmaceutical.
Read more: The Perfect Mental Health Playlist – 5 Songs to Reduce Anxiety
conclusion
Anxiety and ADHD are extreme and harsh conditions that anyone has to deal with. They need proper professional help and understanding to overcome their problems and feel better. Awareness and empathy are needed among people to help these individuals create a safer and more understanding environment.
However, there is no substitute for proper professional help. Getting treatment may help you better manage your symptoms. Finding treatment has become much easier and easier with the advent of online treatment platforms. To learn more about affordable online therapy platforms, click over here.
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