Have you ever felt like you just can’t focus or get organized no matter how hard you try? Studies show that up to 50-70% of adults with untreated ADHD also struggle with depression at some point. Why the connection? The symptoms of depression and ADHD overlap and feed into each other, creating a vicious cycle. Depression makes it even more difficult to focus and prioritize, worsening ADHD symptoms. In turn, the inability to focus and feelings of being overwhelmed intensify depression.

Let’s dive deeper into how undiagnosed ADHD can lead to depression. 

The Connection Between ADHD and Depression

Woman Standing in Front of Brown Wood Plank Some symptoms of ADHD and depression overlap, like trouble concentrating, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping. This can make it tricky to determine if you’re dealing with ADHD, depression, or both. The best way to get an accurate diagnosis is through a comprehensive evaluation from a mental health professional. 

ADHD and depression share some of the same genetic risk factors and biological causes. Imbalances or abnormalities in the frontal lobe and neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine that regulate mood and attention are implicated in both conditions. If depression and ADHD run in your family, you have a higher risk of experiencing both disorders.

ADHD can negatively impact many areas of life, including relationships, work, or school performance. These life stresses significantly increase the risk of depression. Likewise, the symptoms of depression can make the challenges of ADHD feel insurmountable. It becomes a vicious cycle.

ADHD medications may also contribute to depression in some cases. Stimulants often prescribed for ADHD can cause side effects like irritability, restlessness, and mood swings, which may worsen symptoms of depression or trigger a depressive episode.

Why Undiagnosed ADHD Increases Risk of Depression

If you have undiagnosed ADHD, you’re more prone to developing depression. When your ADHD goes undetected and untreated, everyday life can feel overwhelming and chaotic. You may struggle with restlessness, trouble focusing, disorganization, and impulsiveness, leading to frustration, low self-esteem, and hopelessness over time.

Living with untreated ADHD means you’re also more likely to face difficulties in relationships, at work, or school. You may feel like you’re constantly letting others down or not living up to your potential. These struggles and negative experiences, with no explanation or treatment, increase the risk of depression. Recognizing the underlying ADHD and getting proper treatment, whether therapy, medication, coaching, or a combination, can help prevent or reduce symptoms of depression.

Some signs that your untreated ADHD may be contributing to depression include:

  • Difficulty enjoying activities you used to like
  • Changes in appetite or sleep
  • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

If you’re experiencing any of these, talk to your doctor right away about an ADHD diagnosis and treatment. Getting the right help can change your life and help you feel better.

Seeking Evaluation and Treatment for ADHD and Depression

If you think you may have undiagnosed ADHD, talk to your doctor. Getting an accurate diagnosis is key. When ADHD and depression are properly diagnosed and managed, the outlook is positive.

Treatment for ADHD, such as medication and therapy, can help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. Stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin can help improve focus and impulse control. Therapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), teaches organization, time management, and emotional regulation skills. Exercise, sleep, and diet also play a role in managing symptoms. Discuss the options with your doctor and therapist to find the best for you based on your needs and preferences.

If you’re struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety and have a tough time focusing or sitting still, don’t write it off as laziness or scatterbrain-ness. With the proper diagnosis and treatment, you can thrive and avoid the downward spiral of worsening depression. Book an appointment for depression therapy with us today so you can start finding relief soon.