• Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • What Are Bipolar Disorder Cycles?
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
  • Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • What Are Bipolar Disorder Cycles?
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
Skip to content

ADHD & Anxiety: Connections, Differences, & Treatment Options

Published: December 12, 2022 Updated: January 25, 2023
Published: 12/12/2022 Updated: 01/25/2023
Andrea Brognano LMHC,LPC, NCC
Written by:

Andrea Brognano

LMHC, LPC, NCC

Dr. Maria Simbra, MD, MPH
Reviewed by:

Dr. Maria Simbra

MD, MPD
  • What’s the Link Between ADHD and Anxiety?ADHD & Anxiety Connection
  • ADHD vs. AnxietyADHD vs. Anxiety
  • Signs of Comorbid ADHD & AnxietyCan They Be Comorbid?
  • How Are Comorbid ADHD & Anxiety Treated?Treatment Options
  • How to Cope With ADHD & AnxietyHow to Cope
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
  • ADHD & Anxiety InfographicsInfographics
Andrea Brognano LMHC,LPC, NCC
Written by:

Andrea Brognano

LMHC, LPC, NCC

Dr. Maria Simbra, MD, MPH
Reviewed by:

Dr. Maria Simbra

MD, MPD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety are two conditions that often occur together. Research suggests that as many as 50% of people with ADHD may also have an anxiety disorder.1 Experiencing symptoms of both conditions can be challenging, and many may feel confused about how to manage them effectively. However, there are many treatment options available to help a person cope.

Evidence has shown that online therapy can be effective in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, experienced therapist to help you manage your ADHD symptoms and reduce any negative impact on your life and relationships. Online therapy with BetterHelp starts at $60 per week. Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you.

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by BetterHelp

Visit BetterHelp

What’s the Link Between ADHD and Anxiety?

Research suggests that those with ADHD are more likely to have an anxiety disorder at a rate much greater than the general population.1 Adult ADHD and anxiety share some similar symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, and irritability, among others. However, there are key differences between the two as well. Anxiety disorders cause fear or worry that’s disproportional to actual risks involved, whereas someone with ADHD might not experience such disturbances.

Can ADHD Cause Anxiety?

While having ADHD cannot solely cause anxiety, there is a high correlation that those with ADHD may experience anxiety symptoms as they struggle to stay on task. This in turn can create worry about reaching deadlines, completing household chores, etc.

Does ADHD Make Anxiety Worse?

When people with ADHD experience anxiety, it is common that their symptoms are intensified  as they tend to be easily distracted. Anxiety may become worse as feelings of overwhelm related to completing necessary tasks, making appointments, and fulfilling obligations increase.

ADHD vs. Anxiety

Because ADHD and anxiety can present in similar ways, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of each separate diagnosis to receive proper treatment. ADHD and anxiety differ from each other greatly overall.

Typical symptoms of ADHD include:

  • Inattention
  • Hyperactivity
  • Impulsivity 
  • Forgetfulness
  • Inability to sit still

Typical symptoms of anxiety include:

  • Chest pain
  • Cold or sweaty hands or feet
  • Restlessness
  • Sleep related concerns (too much or too little)
  • Nausea

Signs of Comorbid ADHD & Anxiety

While each condition can occur separately from one another, it is not uncommon for ADHD and anxiety to occur together. Being mindful and aware of co-occurring symptoms will have a significant impact on the way in which you receive proper support in order to lead a healthier life.

Signs that you might have both anxiety and ADHD might include:

  • Being easily irritated
  • Social isolation
  • Fidgeting often
  • Being fearful of trying new things
  • Overanalyzing and not taking action

How Are Comorbid ADHD & Anxiety Treated?

Although ADHD and anxiety can have a substantial impact on a person’s life, there are several options available for treatment. Having access to both therapy and medication can help  a person lead a much healthier and structured life. However, different medications will lead to different results, so having an appropriate knowledge of how each prescription works in conjunction with one another is important.

Get Help 

Talkiatry – Offers psychiatric appointments with real doctors within a week. They’re in-network with every major insurer and offer medication management. Take a free assessment and meet your new psychiatrist.  Free Assessment


Inflow App – Inflow is the #1 science-based app to help you manage your ADHD. Their support system helps you understand your neurodiverse brain, and build lifelong skills. Free Trial


Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and may be compensated for marketing by Inflow and Talkiatry.

People should also recognize the signs and symptoms related to their medication and the potential side effects of combining both.

Treatment options for comorbid anxiety and ADHD include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT helps a person reframe anxious thoughts and focus on adopting healthier behaviors and mindsets.
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): DBT helps an individual address harmful ways of thinking by teaching mindfulness and coping skills.
  • Group therapy: Group therapy can be beneficial, as participants can hear about others’ struggles similar to theirs and learn helpful tips for managing symptoms.
  • SSRI medication*: While these medications are often given to those with depression, they can be helpful for symptoms of depression sometimes present in both anxiety and ADHD.
  • Anti-anxiety medication: These medications help an individual feel more balanced rather than continuously restless or worried.

*This medication has a black box warning, the most serious kind of warning from the FDA for a risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people. You should talk with your doctor about these risks before starting this medication. 

Effects of ADHD Medication on Your Anxiety

If you’ve been diagnosed with comorbid ADHD and anxiety, it’s possible that your doctor will prescribe certain medications for each condition. For example, stimulants are often prescribed to those who have been diagnosed with ADHD but can actually heighten anxiety symptoms.2 There comes a point when a doctor may recommend using therapy interventions over medications due to these negative interactions.

Will a Doctor Prescribe a Combination of ADHD & Anxiety Medication?

A doctor may explain that one medication will not address every symptom you are experiencing. It is common that a person with both ADHD and anxiety may require multiple prescriptions in order to find symptom relief. For instance, stimulants may help address distractibility or impulsivity, but they won’t necessarily help with underlying anxiety problems.2 Therefore, consult with your doctor to find a regimen that works best for you, and be sure to note any changes in your body or mood.

How to Cope With ADHD & Anxiety

While seeking professional help is critical, it’s also helpful to find ways to cope with combined symptoms of ADHD and anxiety on your own to reduce stress related to your daily challenges.3

Below are some tips for coping with ADHD and anxiety:

Schedule Unstructured Time

Schedule a time for unstructured activities so you can tap into your creativity; find a space where you feel at peace, free of any responsibilities or obligations. Prioritize taking this break and do not make plans that overlap with this allotment. During this time, allow yourself to do anything that brings you joy at the moment.

Exercise & Move Your Body

Moving your body releases endorphins which help to boost your overall mood. In doing so, you may feel less anxious and more grounded in the present moment. Take time for physical activity everyday, even if for only a few minutes.

Organize Your Space

Having a clean and organized space can help you feel more at ease, relaxed, and less anxious. Having a neat and structured environment allows a person with anxiety and ADHD to feel more in control of their life.

Reframe Your Thoughts

Negative thoughts can confine us to a mental space of overwhelm and stress with a pattern of unhealthy beliefs and ideas. Take a step back, reframe your thoughts, and replace them with positive alternatives.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to remember that it’s not uncommon for people with ADHD to have anxiety, and vice versa. In fact, many people with ADHD also experience symptoms of anxiety. If you think you might have both conditions, it’s best to talk to your doctor about treatment options as soon as possible so that you can get back on track with your life.

Additional Resources

Education is just the first step on our path to improved mental health and emotional wellness. To help our readers take the next step in their journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy may be compensated for marketing by the companies mentioned below.

ADHD Management Tools

Inflow App Inflow is the #1 science-based app to help you manage your ADHD. Their support system helps you understand your neurodiverse brain, and build lifelong skills. Free Trial

Virtual Psychiatry

Talkiatry Get help from a real doctor that takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with top-rated psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment within a week. Free Assessment

Online Therapy 

BetterHelp Get support and guidance from a licensed therapist. BetterHelp has over 20,000 therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy.  Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you. Get Started

Choosing Therapy  Directory 

You can search for therapists by specialty, experience, insurance, or price, and location. Find a therapist today

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by BetterHelp, Inflow, and Talkiatry.

For Further Reading

  • Anxiety Disorders: Attacks, Symptoms, Treatment – Anxiety.org
  • Adult and Pediatric ADHD Treatment Options – ADHD Online
  • Fast Easy Simple – ADHD Online

ADHD & Anxiety Infographics

What's the Link Between ADHD and Anxiety   How Are Comorbid ADHD and Anxiety Treated   How to Cope with ADHD and Anxiety

3 sources

Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • Jarrett, & Ollendick, T. H. (2008). A conceptual review of the comorbidity of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and anxiety: Implications for future research and practice. Clinical Psychology Review, 28(7), 1266–1280. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2008.05.004

  • Tarrant. (2017). Meditation interventions to rewire the brain:integrating neuroscience strategies for ADHD, anxiety, depression & PTSD. PESI Publishing & Media.

  • Levine, Wolraich, M., & Hagan, J. F. (2019). ADHD : evaluation and care. American Academy of Pediatrics.

Recent Articles

School Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes, & How to Help
School Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes, & How to Help
There are many types of anxiety disorders that a child or teen may experience. However, school anxiety can be...
';
Panic Attacks In the Elderly_ Causes_ Getting Help_ _ X Ways To Cope
Panic Attacks in the Elderly: Causes, Getting Help, & 8 Ways to Cope
Life events such as increased health problems and grief can increase anxiety in older adults, sometimes leading to panic...
';
Time Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes, & Tips for Coping
Time Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes, & Tips for Coping
Time anxiety is characterized by feelings of overwhelm, nervousness, and fear about completing tasks or fulfilling life goals on...
';
Rumination: Definition, Causes, & 8 Tips for Coping
Rumination: Definition, Causes, & 10 Tips for Stopping
Rumination is a cycle of negative thinking that interferes in someone’s life. It starts as a coping mechanism to...
';
Zoloft For Anxiety_ Effectiveness_ Dosage_ _ More
Zoloft For Anxiety: Effectiveness, Dosage, & More
Zoloft is an SSRI medication that is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic...
';
Paxil For Anxiety_ Effectiveness_ Dosage_ _ More
Paxil for Anxiety: Effectiveness, Dosage, & More
Paxil is an antidepressant commonly used in the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders. While Paxil does not cure...
';
Andrea Brognano LMHC,LPC, NCC
Written by:

Andrea Brognano

LMHC, LPC, NCC

Dr. Maria Simbra, MD, MPH
Reviewed by:

Dr. Maria Simbra

MD, MPD
  • What’s the Link Between ADHD and Anxiety?ADHD & Anxiety Connection
  • ADHD vs. AnxietyADHD vs. Anxiety
  • Signs of Comorbid ADHD & AnxietyCan They Be Comorbid?
  • How Are Comorbid ADHD & Anxiety Treated?Treatment Options
  • How to Cope With ADHD & AnxietyHow to Cope
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
  • ADHD & Anxiety InfographicsInfographics
If you are in need of immediate medical help:
Medical
Emergency
911
Suicide Hotline
800-273-8255
See more Crisis Hotlines
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Write for Us
  • Careers
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • No Surprises Act
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
988
Click For More Crisis Hotlines
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
811
See more Crisis Hotlines
here
logo
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.
This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.
Choosing Therapy Logo
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit Cookie Settings to provide controlled consent. Cookie settings ACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

We use cookies to facilitate website functionality. Also, we use third-party cookies to track your website behavior and target advertising. These cookies are stored in your browser only with your consent, and you have the choice of opting out.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non Necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

Save & Accept