Connecting ADHD and Depression: Exploring the Link and Symptoms
Many mental health conditions are co-morbid, which means that symptoms overlap, and you can experience various conditions simultaneously. Likewise, struggles in one issue may magnify struggles elsewhere. That's why accurate diagnosing is crucial.
In recent years, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms have received more acknowledgement. Today, more and more, we're realizing the full effects of neurodivergence and how it intersects with all areas of functioning, including relationships, physical health, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
At Boreal Therapy Collective, we understand the intersection between ADHD and other comorbid disorders, including depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. We provide multidisciplinary care intended to help you experience relief and feel more authentic in your daily life.
Does ADHD Cause Depression?
Mental health experts don't believe that any one condition causes the other. ADHD and depressive symptoms do share some similarities, but the presenting diagnoses are distinct. That said, untreated ADHD may exacerbate depression by:
Concentration problems: ADHD affects focus and concentration, and many children struggle in school as a result of their symptoms. This can affect grades and confidence, and it can coincide with feelings of frustration or incompetence.
Interpersonal struggles: ADHD may affect relationships due to missing or misconstruing social cues, including controlling impulses, sharing, taking turns, and listening to others. This can result in social isolation or feelings of rejection from family or friends, which can heighten the risk of depression.
Low self-esteem: Because ADHD is so misunderstood, it is often stigmatized in the classroom and the real world. Children, in particular, may be prone to bullying or receiving criticism from others. This can impact self-esteem and contribute to feeling depressed.
What Makes Depressive Symptoms Worse?
People with major depressive disorder experience depressive symptoms on a spectrum. However, these symptoms are pervasive (lasting at least two weeks at a time or more), and they significantly affect one's quality of life. While everyone is different, depression may be exacerbated by:
Poor social support: Isolation is a risk for magnifying any mood disorder. Having friends or family doesn't inherently "fix" depression, but positive support can relieve symptoms and help people feel less alone.
Substance abuse: Substance abuse provides temporary relief from uncomfortable feelings, but it often worsens mood disorders and can complicate depression treatment.
Chronic stress: Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but you may be at an increased risk for depression if you feel perpetually overwhelmed by your stress. We all have a threshold for how much we can handle at a given time. If you feel like you're maxing out, you will likely feel more depleted, upset, and irritable.
What Makes ADHD Symptoms Worse?
Like depression, ADHD symptoms also exist on a spectrum. Some people find that their ADHD is more manageable in certain settings than others.
Misdiagnosis or being misunderstood: Misdiagnosis can happen to anyone. With that, adult ADHD symptoms often present differently than childhood ADHD, so healthcare professionals may be more likely to miss an ADHD diagnosis entirely. If you don't know what's going on, it's hard to intervene and take care of yourself appropriately.
Lack of sleep: Poor or insufficient sleep can disrupt concentration, executive function, and attention span. If you struggle with sleep - as many people with ADHD do - you may note that your symptoms feel more difficult to manage on a daily basis.
Inconsistent routine: Many people with ADHD thrive when life feels structured and routine-oriented. Inconsistency can result in disorganization or feeling scattered - this may affect how well you manage time and take care of important responsibilities.
Negative thoughts about self or others: Negative self-talk can certainly impact ADHD symptoms. Similarly, if you feel helpless about your condition, you may find yourself spiraling into even more of a negative headspace.
What is the Best Treatment for ADHD and Depression?
ADHD and depression treatment are often multifaceted and may entail a combination of therapy, medication, and adaptive lifestyle changes. In general, it's better to treat early onset depression rather than wait for symptoms to worsen over time. This is important for parents who may overlook adolescent depression by labeling certain symptoms as "just moodiness" or "just a phase."
Stimulant medications: There are numerous options for ADHD medications. Stimulants are often the first approach for managing ADHD symptoms, but some people respond better to non-stimulant medications.
Antidepressant medication: Antidepressants, including SSRIs, may be beneficial for people experiencing major depression. These medications work on the serotonin receptors and can help improve overall mood stabilization.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT): CBT helps people identify and challenge the negative thoughts impacting their emotional well-being. The behavioural component of this treatment focuses on encouraging the use of positive coping skills when managing triggers.
Play-based therapy: Play-based therapy may be beneficial for younger clients with comorbid ADHD and depression. This type of treatment offers children space to express their feelings and thoughts without having to share them explicitly. It can complement other therapies, including family therapy.
Lifestyle changes: In addition to medication and therapy, it's important to consider other holistic approaches to wellness. These may include prioritizing physical activity, good sleep hygiene, nutrition, peer support, self-care, and individualized academic plans for children.
Therapy for Depressive Symptoms and ADHD for Children, Parents, and Families
Both ADHD and depression are chronic conditions. While there are no cures, the right treatment can support a meaningful, high-quality life.
At Boreal Therapy Collective, we are a team of dedicated mental health professionals here to support you and your loved ones. In addition to treating ADHD and depression, we also treat the many symptoms both encompass, including emotional regulation, distress tolerance, intrusive thoughts, and self-harm struggles.
If you're ready to begin treatment with our team, book your initial assessment here.
