In many people, ADHD and depression exist at the same time. At first, they might be confused that they have only depression, but later on, the signs of ADHD appear. Mostly, ADHD is linked with adults, but sometimes its symptoms appear in the late 40s in older. So, ADHD vs depression causes difficulty in sustaining attention, while depression leads to a lack of interest or motivation. Therefore, it is vital to seek professional guidance to manage the signs of both issues.
Here in this guide, we’ll explain the differences and similarities of both the disorder and treatment options. Keep reading till the end and collect useful pieces of information.
ADHD and Depression Symptoms
Some ADHD depression symptoms overlap, which makes it difficult to classify. For example, both may even interfere with your ability to focus on work and tasks. Furthermore, problems in sleeping or eating may also be common cases of depression and ADHD, especially for patients taking medication for ADHD stimulants.
Some unique signs of depression do not match with adult ADHD. These include:
- Almost feeling sad or empty
- Feeling hopelessness, guilt, and worthlessness
- No more having fun and playing hobbies
- Often thinking about suicide and death
Some symptoms of ADHD are similar to depression, so you must seek professional medical advice to properly diagnose the problem. For an ADHD diagnosis, testing and medication management, you can contact us at MAVA Behavioral Health.
Causes of ADHD and Depression
Previous studies suggest that depression was more prevalent among individuals with ADHD. Meanwhile, depression causing ADHD symptoms now appear less probable. Depression also is relatively common, 2nd most frequently diagnosed psychiatric illness (after anxiety), with which about 20% of adults sometime in their life will be diagnosed. In ADHD vs depression, Individuals may feel restless or hyperactive, whereas those with depression often experience fatigue or low energy. Anti-depressants are also the 2nd most commonly prescribed class of psychiatric medicines, 2nd only to the anti-anxiety medicines.
As per modern research, it is identified that some people will be born with both ADHD and depression. So, even though the prevalence of depression might not be any greater or lesser among those with ADHD compared to those without it, around 20% of those with ADHD will suffer from depression, just as 20% of those without ADHD will face the same issue.
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ADHD And Depression in Adults
Many times, adults suffering from ADHD and depression remain unrecognized. Sometimes, the symptoms may appear when one is older. Many confuse adult adhd depression as they grow older. Similarly, ADHD is the most common psychiatric disorder among adults, but it usually remains unrecognized and untreated while showing symptoms similar to some other possible conditions. Screening for ADHD in adults with other disorders will identify some patients who could potentially benefit from certain treatments. In adults, ADHD may be represented differently.
However, ADHD vs depression includes Mood swings that are short-lived and situational, but depression involves prolonged feelings of sadness or hopelessness. This disorder can often be caught through a series of crucial questions and some well-known measures, including the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale or the Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales. The impact on mental health and everyday life would be much improved over time with proper treatment for ADHD early in its stages. In the case of ADHD and comorbid mental disorders, the more severe should be treated first.
Similarities of Depression and ADHD
ADHD is a condition that changes how people think and behave, which may change feelings, behavior, and learning. It is common to be diagnosed with ADHD with depression, but still, so many kids carry its symptoms into adulthood. But the good news is that people with ADHD can receive control over their lives, too. Your doctor can administer medications, therapy, counseling, or other types of treatments.
How are depression and ADHD related? We know that these are conditions that frequently occur together, meaning if you have one, you are more likely to also have the other.
Here are some facts about ADHD and depression:
- Teens with ADHD are susceptible to depression much more than teens without ADHD.
- More significantly, depression is threefold among adults with ADHD than that present within individuals without ADHD.
- The chance of developing depression during the first year after receiving an ADHD diagnosis is approximately 6.5 times higher.
Link Between ADHD And Depression
The similarity of these symptoms means that misdiagnosis is possible, and sometimes, individuals may have both conditions simultaneously. This overlap is why professional medical assessment is crucial.
i. Lack of Interest
You highlight an important distinction in how interest wanes. In contrast, depression creates a sudden, complete loss of interest. In a depressive state, even previously enjoyable activities or hyper-fixations become unable to generate any sense of fulfillment.
ii. Low Moods
Your description of mood differences is particularly compelling. ADHD involves emotional fluidity, with rapid mood shifts throughout the day. Depression feels like a persistent, heavy emotional state – metaphorically described as a “stone lodged in your chest” that cannot be dislodged. You also suggest paying attention to bodily sensations, noting how emotional pain can manifest as physical discomfort.
iii. Lack of Energy
It is a critical differentiator for you. Depression manifests as a profound energy drain, creating:
- Wish to rest the entire day
- Difficulty performing basic tasks
- Absence of motivation
- Preference for sleeping over any other activity
Energy isn’t necessarily absent but is redirected in ADHD. Instead of being completely depleted, motivation gets channeled toward more stimulating or interesting activities.
These distinctions are valuable and informative and could help others recognize the nuanced differences between ADHD or depression. However, the professional diagnosis is vital, as individual experiences can vary.
Difference Between Depression and ADHD
Depression | ADHD |
| Persistent low mood, feeling consistently sad or empty | Mood fluctuates rapidly and can be intense but changeable |
| Complete loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities | Shifts between high interest (hyper fixation) and low interest |
| Severe lack of energy, desire to stay in bed | Variable energy, often high energy for interesting tasks |
| Profound lack of motivation across all activities | Motivation exists but may be redirected to stimulating tasks |
| Negative self-talk, feelings of hopelessness | Racing thoughts, difficulty filtering mental stimuli |
ADHD and Depression Treatment
A treatment plan for ADHD and depression tends to be a comprehensive plan that incorporates medication as well as therapy to target distinct symptoms. Stimulant medications may serve to regulate symptoms of ADHD, including inattention and acting impulsively without thinking, and mood-affecting anti-depressants target and reduce depressive feelings. ADHD vs depression: its symptoms often include trouble completing tasks, whereas depression can cause a loss of interest in tasks altogether.
Constant check-ups help ensure that the given treatment works well and can change if necessary. The intent is to improve mental health, improve daily activities, and help the person’s quality of life.
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ADHD and Depression Medication
Medications work by helping to balance brain chemicals that affect mood and behavior. For ADHD, stimulant medications like methylphenidate or amphetamines improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and increase attention span. These medications regulate dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which are important for concentration and executive functioning.
Anti-depressants such as SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are commonly prescribed for depression. These medications help increase serotonin levels in the brain, improve mood, reduce feelings of sadness, and help restore emotional balance. The right medication and dosage can vary greatly between individuals, so finding the most effective treatment takes time.
Lifestyle Changes
What can you do by yourself to make your ADHD and depression better? The basics are the most important: eat healthy food, exercise regularly, think positively, eat a healthy diet rich in proteins and carbohydrates, and practice good sleep habits.
Ensure there’s a place like an “interest closet” or another section in your house where you store things that you would like to do in case you get bored. Place in their things that you would like to read out from books, some things you would like to do with crafts or a set of podcasts you would like to hear. It helps to get something interesting so one cannot be bored.
Let’s Outlook
Many people experience symptoms of ADHD and depression that seem very similar, which can be confusing. At first, someone might believe they only have depression, but over time, they realize ADHD symptoms are also present. ADHD vs depression impacts task organization and memory, while depression impairs decision-making and concentration due to low motivation. The symptoms can look a lot like each other, such as feeling tired, struggling to focus, or losing interest in activities they used to enjoy.
It’s crucial to get help from a professional who can carefully understand what’s going on because the signs are so similar. A mental health expert can examine all your symptoms and create a treatment plan that helps you feel better. MAVA Behavioral Health offers different ways to assist you, including telehealth and in-person visits. Thus, you can get the help you need in a way that’s most comfortable for you, whether that’s talking to someone from home or meeting face-to-face.
FAQ’s
1-What are the 3 levels of ADHD?
The 3 levels of ADHD severity are:
- Mild ADHD: Minimal symptoms that cause minor disruptions in daily functioning.
- Moderate ADHD: Noticeable symptoms that significantly impact daily life and require more active management.
- Severe ADHD: Extensive symptoms that substantially interfere with work, relationships, and personal functioning.
2-Is ADHD a form of autism?
No, ADHD is not a form of autism. ADHD is the condition in which a person is unable to focus and stay attentive.
3-What is high-functioning depression?
It is the type of chronic depression in which a person appears to have no sadness apparently but in deep feels a lot of frustration, loneliness, anger, and hopelessness. Such sort of individuals are struggling to manage their tasks at the office, school, and even at home.
4-Does ADHD get worse with age?
Yes, ADHD gets worse with age if it is not treated at a suitable time. When a person ages, thinking, focusing, and even remembering the important is blurred. Therefore, timely treatment is the main factor.
5-Do anti-depressants work for ADHD?
Anti-depressants are not first-line treatments for ADHD; some types, like bupropion and SNRIs, can help manage symptoms in certain patients. Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamines remain the primary pharmacological treatment for ADHD.
6-What happens if ADHD is left untreated in adults?
If ADHD is left untreated in adults, it can cause difficulties in maintaining relationships, employment, and managing daily responsibilities. Over time, untreated ADHD may contribute to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.
