ADHD and Depression: Understanding the Connection

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and major depression are two distinct mental health conditions, yet they frequently occur together. If you're struggling with both, you may feel doubly challenged—and you're certainly not alone. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, Georgia, we specialize in helping patients throughout Gwinnett County and Metro Atlanta manage complex, co-occurring conditions.

Does ADHD Cause Depression?

Having ADHD doesn't guarantee you'll develop depression, but research shows your risk is higher. Researchers believe this connection happens for several reasons:

• Life impacts of ADHD: The ongoing challenges of living with ADHD—difficult relationships, academic struggles, work performance issues—can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem that may evolve into depression.
• Genetic factors: Some genes associated with ADHD may also be linked to depression, meaning both conditions could share biological roots.
• Untreated ADHD: When ADHD goes undiagnosed or untreated, symptoms continue interfering with life, increasing the risk for developing depression over time.

Who's at Higher Risk?

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of experiencing both ADHD and depression:

• Childhood ADHD, especially if untreated
• Being female or assigned female at birth
• Family history of either condition
• Maternal depression during pregnancy

How Common Is This Combination?

The numbers are significant. Approximately 17% of children and adolescents with ADHD also have depression, compared to just 4.4% of the general youth population. In adults, about 18.6% of those with ADHD experience depression, versus 4.7% of adults without ADHD.

When both conditions are present, they can create a challenging cycle: ADHD symptoms worsen depression, and depression symptoms make ADHD harder to manage. This is why proper diagnosis and comprehensive treatment are so important.

ADHD vs. Depression: Key Differences

While these conditions share some overlapping symptoms—like trouble focusing and memory difficulties—there are important distinctions:

• ADHD typically begins in childhood with symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity
• Depression is primarily characterized by persistent low mood and can develop at any age
• Both can cause concentration problems, but the underlying causes differ

Because symptoms overlap, getting an accurate diagnosis from a qualified mental health professional like Dr. Aneel Ursani at Next Step Psychiatry is crucial for effective treatment.

Treatment Approaches

Treating Depression

First-line treatments for depression typically include talk therapy—particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)—and antidepressant medications like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs.

Treating ADHD

ADHD is often treated with stimulant medications like Adderall or Ritalin, which affect dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulant options are also available for those who don't respond well to stimulants. Therapy and skills training can help with executive function challenges.

When Both Conditions Are Present

Some medications, like certain atypical antidepressants (Wellbutrin, for example), may address symptoms of both conditions. Our team at Next Step Psychiatry creates individualized treatment plans that consider your unique symptoms, medical history, and personal goals.

Getting the Right Diagnosis Matters

Many people with ADHD have their depression diagnosed first, or vice versa, leaving one condition untreated. A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation ensures nothing is missed.

If you're a resident of Lilburn, Snellville, Lawrenceville, or anywhere in the Atlanta metro area and you suspect you may have ADHD, depression, or both, we encourage you to seek evaluation from our experienced team.

This article is for educational purposes only. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 immediately.