Did you know that many people with ADHD also struggle with depression at some point in their lives? Let’s explore the connection between ADHD and depression by delving into common questions about these conditions and the links between them.
What is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a consistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that makes daily life more challenging. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), symptoms of ADHD must show up before the age of twelve and cause persistent difficulties in major areas of daily life, such as social or academic situations.
What is the difference between ADHD and ADD?
ADHD can present in different forms that are characterized by the most pronounced symptoms experienced by an individual, such as:
Predominantly inattentive behavior (typically referred to as ADD rather than ADHD)
Symptoms include difficulty focusing, organizing tasks, and following instructions
Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive behavior
Symptoms may include excessive talking, difficulty staying still, and/or a tendency towards impatience
Combined presentation with both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms
Both ADHD and ADD can lead to increased irritability and frustration
What is the clinical definition of depression?
Someone with depression experiences feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and anhedonia, which means a lack of interest or pleasure found in activities previously enjoyed by an individual. Depression can present in different ways for different people and often includes additional symptoms such as irritability, changes in appetite, sleep disruptions, daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or suicidal thoughts.
What are the different types of depression?
There are several types of depression, including:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is an episodic form of depression, requiring five or more symptoms to persist for at least two weeks.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), also known as dysthymia, involves less severe but more chronic symptoms of depression lasting for at least two years.
Bipolar-related disorders are characterized by episodes of both depression and mania or hypomania.
Will everyone with ADHD/ADD eventually develop depression in their lifetime?
The presence of ADHD or ADD does not always happen at the same time as depression, as the development of mental disorders often depends on additional factors like environmental influences and genetics. However, while there may not be a direct causal relationship between these conditions, research shows that depression is one of the most common co-existing disorders among individuals diagnosed with ADHD. It is important to consider all possible diagnoses during the diagnostic and treatment processes, especially since the overlapping symptoms between ADHD and depression can cause additional challenges in life and daily functioning.
Which symptoms can overlap between these conditions?
Many individuals seek help for depressive symptoms without recognizing their underlying ADHD (or vice versa), which can complicate both diagnosis and treatment. This is primarily due to several overlapping symptoms between ADHD and depression, including:
Difficulty concentrating and completing tasks
Increased agitation, hyperactivity, and impulsivity
Sleep disruptions, low energy, and/or persistent fatigue
Difficulty with social interactions or excessive struggles with daily functioning
Low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness
How does having both AD(H)D and depression affect the treatment approach?
Treatment can be more complex with co-occurring conditions compared to planning interventions for a singular disorder. Research shows that addressing both conditions simultaneously can lead to better outcomes, meaning that an integrated treatment approach may be most effective.
What are some of the best strategies for managing comorbid ADHD and depression?
There are many intervention methods that are effective in treating the overlapping symptoms of ADHD and depression, making these strategies particularly useful for an integrated approach. Some of the best methods include:
Specific types of therapy, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Personal lifestyle changes, such as improving sleep hygiene or increasing physical activity
Professional medication management, making sure to monitor for any exacerbation of symptoms since certain stimulant medications can sometimes worsen depression
Social engagement and building support in both personal and professional networks
Whether you’re seeking clarity for yourself or trying to support someone else, understanding the connection between ADHD and depression can help you find more effective coping strategies and improve how you function in your daily life.
Do you have experience with both AD(H)D and depression? What has been helpful for you? Let us know in the comments!
Sources:
Attention Deficit Disorder Association. (2022). ADHD and depression: Exploring the connection.
Daviss, W. B. & Bond, J. B. (2016). Comorbid ADHD and depression: Assessment and treatment strategies. Psychiatric Times, 33(9).
Katzman, M. A., Bilkey, T. S., Chokka, P. R., Fallu, A., & Klassen, L. J. (2017). Adult ADHD and comorbid disorders: Clinical implications of a dimensional approach. BMC Psychiatry, 17, 302.
Powell, V., Shameem Agha, S., Bevan Jones, R., Eyre, O., Stephens, A., Weavers, B., Lennon, J., Allardyce, J., Potter, R., Smith, D., Thapar, A., & Rice, F. (2021). ADHD in adults with recurrent depression. Journal of Affective Disorders, 295, 1153-1160.
Riglin, L., Leppert, B., Dardani, C., Thapar, A. K., Rice, F., O’Donovan, M. C., Smith, G., Stergiakouli, E., Tilling, K., & Thapar, A. (2020). ADHD and depression: Investigating a causal explanation. Psychological Medicine, 51(11), 1890-1897.
Seymour, K. E. & Miller, L. (2017). ADHD and depression: The role of poor frustration tolerance. Current Developmental Disorders Reports, 4(1), 14-18.
Comments