ADHD and Anxiety: Understanding the Connection
ADHD and Anxiety: Why They Often Occur Together
Many people seeking an ADHD assessment initially believe their difficulties are caused solely by anxiety. Others receive treatment for anxiety for many years before discovering that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may also be contributing to their challenges.
ADHD and anxiety frequently occur together and can share similar symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between the two conditions. Understanding the relationship between ADHD and anxiety can help individuals gain greater clarity about their experiences and access appropriate support.
What Is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects:
Attention and concentration
Organisation and planning
Memory
Impulse control
Emotional regulation
Time management
Although ADHD begins in childhood, many individuals are not diagnosed until adulthood.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to perceived stress or threat. While occasional anxiety is normal, persistent anxiety can affect daily functioning and wellbeing.
Common symptoms of anxiety include:
Excessive worrying
Racing thoughts
Difficulty relaxing
Physical tension
Sleep difficulties
Feeling overwhelmed
Avoidance behaviours
Anxiety can occur independently or alongside other conditions such as ADHD.
Why Are ADHD and Anxiety Linked?
Many people with ADHD experience anxiety because of the challenges associated with living with undiagnosed or unmanaged ADHD.
For example, individuals may frequently experience:
Missed deadlines
Forgotten appointments
Disorganisation
Financial difficulties
Relationship challenges
Academic struggles
Over time, these experiences can lead to chronic stress and anxiety.
Many adults report feeling as though they are constantly trying to keep up with responsibilities while worrying about making mistakes.
Similarities Between ADHD and Anxiety
One reason ADHD and anxiety can be difficult to distinguish is that they share several symptoms.
Difficulty Concentrating
People with anxiety may struggle to focus because their mind is occupied by worries.
People with ADHD may struggle to focus because their attention is easily diverted.
In both cases, concentration difficulties can be significant.
Restlessness
Anxiety can create feelings of nervous energy and tension.
ADHD can create physical or mental restlessness.
The experience may feel similar even though the underlying cause differs.
Racing Thoughts
Both ADHD and anxiety can involve:
Constant mental activity
Overthinking
Difficulty switching off
Feeling mentally exhausted
Sleep Difficulties
Both conditions may contribute to:
Difficulty falling asleep
Restless sleep
Racing thoughts at bedtime
Feeling tired during the day
Key Differences Between ADHD and Anxiety
Although there is overlap, there are important differences.
ADHD
ADHD symptoms typically involve:
Lifelong attention difficulties
Disorganisation
Forgetfulness
Impulsivity
Time management problems
Symptoms beginning in childhood
Anxiety
Anxiety symptoms often involve:
Excessive worry
Fear of negative outcomes
Avoidance behaviours
Physical symptoms of stress
Symptoms that may develop later in life
A comprehensive assessment helps determine whether ADHD, anxiety or both conditions are present.
Emotional Regulation and ADHD
Many people are surprised to learn that emotional regulation difficulties are common in ADHD.
Adults may experience:
Frustration
Irritability
Emotional overwhelm
Sensitivity to criticism
Difficulty managing stress
These difficulties can sometimes be mistaken for anxiety disorders.
ADHD, Anxiety and Perfectionism
Many adults with ADHD develop perfectionist tendencies as a way of compensating for organisational difficulties.
Examples include:
Excessive checking
Fear of making mistakes
Over-preparing
Difficulty delegating
Self-criticism
While these behaviours may improve performance, they can also increase anxiety and stress.
ADHD and Anxiety in Women
Women are particularly likely to experience overlapping ADHD and anxiety symptoms.
Many women report:
Chronic overwhelm
Emotional sensitivity
Constant overthinking
Difficulty managing responsibilities
Perfectionism
Because anxiety symptoms are often more visible, ADHD can sometimes go unnoticed for many years.
Can You Have Both ADHD and Anxiety?
Yes.
It is very common for ADHD and anxiety to occur together.
Research suggests that many individuals with ADHD will experience anxiety at some point in their lives.
This is one reason why comprehensive assessment is important. Effective support often requires understanding all factors contributing to an individual's difficulties.
Signs That ADHD May Be Contributing to Anxiety
You may wish to consider an ADHD assessment if:
Difficulties have been present since childhood
Organisation has always been challenging
You frequently lose important items
Time management is consistently difficult
You feel overwhelmed by everyday responsibilities
Anxiety seems linked to attention or organisational difficulties
Many adults describe feeling relieved when they understand how ADHD may be contributing to their experiences.
What Happens During an ADHD Assessment?
A comprehensive ADHD assessment explores:
Current symptoms
Childhood history
Educational experiences
Employment history
Relationships
Mental health
Daily functioning
Clinicians consider whether symptoms meet recognised diagnostic criteria and whether ADHD may be contributing to ongoing difficulties.
Free ADHD Screening Test
If you recognise many of the experiences discussed in this article, taking an ADHD screening test may be a useful first step.
Our free ADHD screening test takes only a few minutes to complete and can help identify whether a comprehensive ADHD assessment may be beneficial.
Take Our Free ADHD Screening Test
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ADHD cause anxiety?
ADHD does not directly cause anxiety, but the challenges associated with ADHD can contribute significantly to stress and anxiety.
How can I tell if I have ADHD or anxiety?
Both conditions share some symptoms. A comprehensive assessment can help determine whether ADHD, anxiety or both are present.
Is it common to have both ADHD and anxiety?
Yes. Many individuals with ADHD also experience anxiety.
Can ADHD treatment help anxiety?
For some individuals, understanding and managing ADHD can reduce anxiety associated with organisational difficulties and everyday stress.
Should I take an ADHD screening test?
If you recognise longstanding attention, organisational or impulsivity difficulties alongside anxiety, a screening test may be a useful starting point.
Final Thoughts
ADHD and anxiety frequently occur together and can sometimes be difficult to distinguish. Many adults spend years treating anxiety without recognising that ADHD may also be contributing to their challenges.
Understanding the relationship between ADHD and anxiety can provide valuable insight and help individuals make informed decisions about assessment and support.
If these experiences sound familiar, completing a free ADHD screening test may be a helpful next step.
