ADHD and depression may seem like separate issues, but they often go hand in hand. Many people with ADHD may not even realize they have it, and the symptoms of undiagnosed ADHD can make depression worse. Understanding this connection is important for both clients and therapists. Here is a breakdown of how these two conditions can overlap and how therapy can help.
ADHD and Depression: More Common Than You Think
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is linked with symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. For years, ADHD was mainly seen as a childhood disorder, but more adults are now being diagnosed. This is especially true for women and older adults, whose ADHD symptoms may look different from what people expect.
Depression, on the other hand, is a mental health condition marked by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. While these two conditions are separate, they share some key symptoms, like difficulty concentrating, irritability, and low energy. For someone with undiagnosed ADHD, these symptoms may worsen over time, contributing to or even causing depression.
How ADHD Can Lead to Depression
Living with undiagnosed ADHD is frustrating. People with ADHD often struggle to focus, meet deadlines, and stay organized. This can lead to feelings of failure and inadequacy. Over time, those feelings can spiral into depression.
For example, a person with ADHD may consistently forget appointments or lose track of tasks at work. They may start feeling like they are not good enough, leading to self-doubt and low self-esteem. People with undiagnosed ADHD may also struggle with emotional regulation. When these negative thoughts build up, they can develop into depression.
ADHD and Depression in Teens
In teens, the combination of ADHD and depression can be particularly challenging. The pressures of school, social life, and self-discovery can amplify the struggles of ADHD, leading to feelings of isolation or being misunderstood. These struggles, if left unaddressed, can contribute to depression in adolescents. Therapy for teens with both conditions can help improve emotional regulation, build self-esteem, and develop healthier coping strategies.
Key Signs of ADHD-Related Depression
It is important to recognize the signs that ADHD might be contributing to depression. Some signs to watch for include:
Chronic Forgetfulness: Difficulty remembering tasks, appointments, or personal items may be an indicator of ADHD, which can worsen depressive feelings.
Difficulty Completing Tasks: People with undiagnosed ADHD may start many projects but struggle to finish them. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and failure, which are also common in depression.
Restlessness or Irritability: ADHD can cause restlessness, while depression can cause irritability. Together, these symptoms can make someone feel overwhelmed and stuck.
Low Self-Esteem: A pattern of disappointment and failure in personal or professional areas can lead to a poor self-image.
Therapy Can Help
Therapists play an important role in helping individuals navigate the intersection between ADHD and depression. For those struggling with ADHD and depression, depression therapy can offer several approaches. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help alleviate the weight of depression by teaching people how to recognize negative thought patterns that contribute to both ADHD and depression. Then, a therapist will show you how to learn healthier thoughts, replacing the negativity.
Mindfulness techniques are another common skill taught by therapists. Therapists can also help teach time management and organizational skills. In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage ADHD and depression. Collaboration with a psychiatrist or primary care doctor can ensure that both conditions are treated properly.
Conclusion
Undiagnosed ADHD can contribute to, or worsen, depression. After understanding the link between ADHD and depression, a therapist can help clients develop strategies that address both issues. If you or a teen in your life are struggling, seeing a professional can be a brave first step toward feeling better! I would be happy to help you explore the connection between these two conditions. See my contact page for directions to request a free consultation.
About the Author
Cory Reid-Vanas, LMFT, is a Colorado licensed marriage and family therapist and the founder/owner of Rocky Mountain Counseling Collective. He provides therapy to clients of all ages, from children age 5 and up through adults, as well as couples and families. Cory assists his clients with a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, stress management, autism, life transitions, and parenting and relationship issues. He utilizes play therapy when working with youth. He offers counseling sessions in person in his Denver office and also online.
