Living with ADHD can sometimes feel like trying to juggle while riding a unicycle on a tightrope—there’s a lot going on, and it’s easy to lose your balance. Now, imagine adding depression into the mix; suddenly, that tightrope feels even narrower, and the juggling balls seem heavier than ever.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and depression often occur together. While ADHD can leave you feeling distracted, restless, and overwhelmed, depression brings its own challenges—low mood, fatigue, and loss of motivation.
But why do these two conditions so often collide? Are people with ADHD really at a higher risk of depression? And how can you tell where one ends and the other begins? Another condition that commonly occurs alongside ADHD is fatigue. You can read more about this in our article ADHD and Fatigue.
If you recognise these symptoms in either yourself or a loved one and are awaiting a diagnosis, we can offer private ADHD assessment in London, Oxford and the West Midlands.
In this article, we’ll explore the connection between ADHD and depression, why they tend to overlap, and what you can do to manage both. Whether you’re seeking answers for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help you find some clarity.
Can Someone Have ADHD and Depression at the Same Time?
Absolutely. ADHD and depression can, and often do, occur together. It’s not just coincidence—there’s a significant overlap between these conditions, and it’s more common than you might think.
Studies show that people with ADHD are at a higher risk of developing depression compared to the general population. In one study, people with ADHD showed a 7.16 times higher risk of developing depressive disorders compared to controls (5.3% vs 0.7%) [1]. Another decade-long study found that approximately half of young adults with ADHD had a diagnosed depressive episode during that period, more than twice the frequency seen in the non-ADHD group [2].This is especially true for those who face challenges in managing ADHD symptoms, such as forgetfulness, disorganisation, and difficulty completing tasks.
The two conditions can also feed into one another. The frustration of constantly missing deadlines, struggling to focus, or feeling misunderstood by others – these are all common experiences for someone with ADHD. Over time, this can take a toll on self-esteem and lead to feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and depression.
In short, ADHD and depression don’t just coexist—they can amplify each other, making day-to-day life even more challenging. That’s why recognising the signs of both is so important for getting the right help and support.
Are People with ADHD at Increased Risk of Depression?
Living with ADHD can often feel like running a race where the finish line keeps moving. The constant struggle to focus, stay organised, and meet expectations—whether at school, work, or in relationships—can lead to frustration and a sense of failure. Over time, these experiences can chip away at self-esteem, leaving individuals feeling “not good enough” or misunderstood.
Socially, ADHD can present its own hurdles. Impulsivity, restlessness, or difficulty following conversations can sometimes create tension with friends, colleagues, or family members. Feeling isolated or rejected because of these struggles can increase the risk of depression.
On a biological level, ADHD and depression share similarities in how they affect the brain. Both conditions are linked to imbalances in neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin [3], [4] which regulate mood, motivation, and focus. If these chemicals are out of sync, it can make someone with ADHD more susceptible to depression.
The combination of emotional, social, and biological factors often creates a vicious cycle. For example: Struggling to complete tasks because of ADHD → Feeling overwhelmed and defeated → Experiencing low mood and self-doubt → Finding it even harder to focus and finish tasks. Without intervention, this cycle can continue and deepen feelings of depression.
Recognising that individuals with ADHD face a higher risk of depression is crucial. With the right support, like therapy, medication, and coping strategies, it’s possible to break this cycle and build a healthier, more balanced life.
Why ADHD and Depression Are Often Linked
The connection between ADHD and depression isn’t a simple coincidence; there are several theories explaining why the two conditions so often occur together. From emotional struggles to brain chemistry, multiple factors contribute to this overlap.
The Role of Chronic Stress and Frustration in ADHD
Living with ADHD can feel like constantly swimming against the current. Tasks that seem simple for others—like finishing assignments, meeting deadlines, or even following a conversation—can be overwhelming for someone with ADHD. Over time, the stress and frustration of dealing with these challenges can become exhausting, leading to feelings of hopelessness and eventually depression.
Impact of Emotional Dysregulation and Low Self-Esteem
Emotional dysregulation is a hallmark of ADHD. People with ADHD often experience intense emotions but struggle to manage them effectively, making it harder to cope with setbacks, criticism, or disappointment. Coupled with frequent challenges at school, work, or in relationships, this can lead to feelings of shame, inadequacy, and low self-esteem. When these feelings persist, they can pave the way for depressive symptoms.
Neurobiological and Genetic Factors Connecting ADHD and Depression
ADHD and depression both involve imbalances in brain chemicals like dopamine, which plays a key role in motivation and reward, and serotonin, which helps regulate mood. In individuals with ADHD, dopamine levels are often lower, contributing to the struggles with focus, impulsivity, and motivation. When serotonin levels are also disrupted, symptoms of depression can emerge.
Genetics also play a part. Research suggests that ADHD and depression share common genetic links, meaning that individuals with a family history of either condition may be more likely to develop both [5], [6].
Together, these emotional, psychological, and biological factors create a perfect storm, explaining why ADHD and depression are so closely intertwined. Understanding these connections is key to providing the right support and treatment for those navigating both conditions.
Does ADHD Make You Depressed?
While ADHD doesn’t cause depression directly, it can certainly lay the groundwork for depressive symptoms, especially when left untreated. Imagine trying to navigate life with a compass that’s constantly spinning—you’re putting in the effort, but progress feels slow, frustrating, and sometimes impossible. Over time, this can take a heavy emotional toll.
The daily struggles associated with ADHD—like difficulty focusing, staying organised, and completing tasks—can lead to a sense of failure and frustration. Whether it’s falling behind at work, missing deadlines, or forgetting important commitments, these challenges can cause feelings of disappointment and self-doubt to build up.
For many people with ADHD, this persistent cycle of struggling to meet expectations can also impact relationships. Misunderstandings, conflicts, or feelings of being “different” can create isolation, making it even harder to reach out for help or feel understood.
When these experiences are repeated over time, they can chip away at self-esteem and lead to feelings of hopelessness, low mood, and eventually depression. Untreated ADHD can feel like a constant uphill battle, where effort doesn’t always equal success, and the frustration of not “measuring up” can weigh heavily on mental health.
Recognising this connection is essential. By identifying and treating ADHD early—through therapy, medication, and practical strategies—many of the emotional struggles that can lead to depression can be eased, creating a more positive and balanced foundation for daily life.
Recognising the Symptoms of Depression in People with ADHD
Spotting depression in someone with ADHD can be tricky because the two conditions share overlapping traits. While ADHD is often associated with difficulties like inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, depression brings its own challenges, including low mood, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities. When both are present, it can feel like untangling a knot of overlapping symptoms.
How to Spot Depression When ADHD Is Already Present
Depression tends to affect mood, energy, and outlook on life, while ADHD primarily impacts focus, organisation, and impulse control. However, in individuals with ADHD, symptoms of depression can sometimes be overlooked or mistaken for ADHD traits. For example:
- Fatigue and low energy: While ADHD can cause restlessness or hyperactivity, it can also leave people feeling mentally drained. Combined with depression, this exhaustion can become persistent and harder to ignore.
- Loss of interest in activities: Difficulty starting or completing tasks is common in ADHD, but when paired with depression, it may be accompanied by a lack of enjoyment or motivation, even for things the individual used to love.
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness: While ADHD can create frustration, depression often brings prolonged feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or emptiness.
If someone with ADHD starts to withdraw from social interactions, experience sleep disruptions, or feel an overwhelming sense of guilt or despair, it’s important to consider depression as a possibility.
Overlapping Symptoms: ADHD, Depression or Both?
The challenge lies in identifying which condition is causing certain symptoms—or if both are present. ADHD and depression share some common traits, including:
- Fatigue: Depression causes a loss of energy, while ADHD can lead to mental exhaustion from constantly battling focus and organisation issues.
- Poor concentration: ADHD is defined by inattention, but depression can also cause difficulty focusing, especially when combined with low energy.
- Low motivation: ADHD may make it hard to initiate tasks due to distraction or procrastination, while depression leads to a lack of drive and interest.
To differentiate, consider how these symptoms show up: ADHD symptoms tend to have been present since childhood and are more tied to a lack of focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Depression, on the other hand, brings emotional symptoms like sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest, which may develop later in life and persist for weeks or longer.
Recognising when both ADHD and depression are present is key to seeking the right support. Accurate diagnosis allows treatment plans to address each condition effectively, helping individuals regain focus, energy, and a sense of enjoyment in life.
Coping with ADHD and Depression
Managing ADHD and depression together can feel like an insurmountable challenge. But with the right strategies, it’s possible to regain control, improve focus, and lift your mood. Small, consistent changes can make a big difference.
Practical Strategies for Managing Focus and Mood
Start with small, achievable goals. Break tasks into bite-sized chunks and celebrate every little win—whether it’s finishing an email, organising your workspace, or ticking something off your to-do list. Tools like reminders, timers, and planners can help you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.
Creating Structure, Healthy Habits, and Routines
Structure is your greatest ally when juggling ADHD and depression. Creating a daily routine helps reduce decision fatigue and builds a sense of stability. Try to:
- Set consistent sleep and wake times to improve energy and focus.
- Schedule tasks and breaks to balance productivity and rest.
- Plan meals and exercise to support physical and mental wellbeing.
Healthy habits like eating nutritious foods, drinking enough water, and staying active can have a significant impact on both focus and mood.
The Role of Exercise, Mindfulness, and Time Management Techniques
Exercise is one of the best natural ways to improve ADHD symptoms and combat depression. Even 20 minutes of walking, cycling, or dancing can boost dopamine and serotonin levels, helping you feel more energised and focused.
Mindfulness and meditation can also help calm racing thoughts and improve emotional regulation. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer short guided sessions that are easy to fit into a busy day.
Time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break), can make overwhelming tasks feel more manageable. Visual timers or task-tracking apps can help you stay engaged without losing momentum.
By combining these practical strategies—structure, healthy habits, exercise, mindfulness, and time management—you can create a toolkit for managing both ADHD and depression. The key is to start small, be patient with yourself, and seek support when needed.
What Medications Are Used to Treat Both ADHD and Depression?
When ADHD and depression occur together, finding the right medication can be like fine-tuning an instrument—it requires balance and careful consideration. Since the conditions share some overlapping symptoms, treatments often target both focus and mood simultaneously.
An Overview of Stimulant and Non-Stimulant Treatments
For ADHD, stimulant medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine-based drugs (Adderall, Elvanse) are often the first line of treatment. These medications increase dopamine levels, improving focus, motivation, and impulse control.
However, when depression is also present, stimulants alone may not be enough. Non-stimulant options such as atomoxetine (Strattera) or guanfacine can help manage ADHD symptoms while being gentler on mood-related concerns.
Medications That Address Overlapping Symptoms
In cases where depression and ADHD coexist, doctors may prescribe antidepressants, particularly those that target both norepinephrine and dopamine—two neurotransmitters that play a role in both conditions. Medications such as:
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin): An antidepressant that also helps with focus and energy.
- Venlafaxine (Effexor): An SNRI that supports mood and concentration.
Sometimes, a combination approach may be necessary, with a stimulant for ADHD and an antidepressant for depression [7]. This helps address the unique challenges of both conditions, improving overall mood, focus, and energy. However, close monitoring is essential because there is a lack of extensive research on the long-term safety and effectiveness of combination treatments.
The Importance of Tailored Treatment Plans
Because everyone’s experience with ADHD and depression is different, treatment must be carefully tailored to individual needs. Factors like symptom severity, medical history, and potential side effects all play a role in determining the right plan.
Working closely with a healthcare professional ensures the most effective combination of treatments is found. It’s this personalised approach that helps individuals manage symptoms more effectively and regain balance in their lives.
How Therapy Can Help with ADHD and Depression
Therapy can be a powerful tool for managing the challenges of ADHD and depression. It provides a safe space to untangle the thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that often accompany both conditions while equipping individuals with practical tools to improve their day-to-day lives.
The Benefits of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for individuals with ADHD and depression. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that can lead to feelings of hopelessness or frustration. For example, if someone believes, “I’ll never get anything done because of my ADHD,” CBT helps reframe this into, “I sometimes struggle to finish tasks, but I can improve my organisation with the right strategies.”
By addressing these unhelpful beliefs, CBT can reduce the emotional burden of depression while teaching practical skills to manage ADHD symptoms like procrastination, disorganisation, and impulsivity.
Addressing Negative Thought Patterns and Emotional Regulation
People with ADHD often experience intense emotions but struggle to regulate them. This can make depression worse, as negative feelings spiral into persistent sadness or guilt. Therapy provides techniques to:
- Identify emotional triggers.
- Develop healthier responses to stress and setbacks.
- Break the cycle of self-criticism and low self-esteem.
By improving emotional regulation, individuals gain greater control over their moods and reactions, reducing the impact of both ADHD and depression.
The Role of Professional Support in Improving Wellbeing
Professional support goes beyond symptom management—it helps individuals build confidence, set achievable goals, and foster healthier habits. Therapists can provide tailored strategies for:
- Creating structure and routines.
- Improving time management and focus.
- Coping with feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and low motivation.
Through consistent support, therapy empowers individuals to navigate ADHD and depression more effectively, improving overall wellbeing and quality of life. With the right guidance, it’s possible to regain a sense of balance, purpose, and hope.
Where to Seek Support for ADHD and Depression
Seeking support for ADHD and depression is the first step toward feeling better and regaining control over daily life. While it may feel overwhelming at first, the right help can make all the difference.
The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment
Getting an accurate diagnosis is key to understanding how ADHD and depression affect you. Because the two conditions share overlapping symptoms, a thorough assessment by a qualified professional can determine whether you’re experiencing ADHD, depression, or both. This clarity ensures that treatment is tailored to your specific needs, addressing both focus and mood challenges effectively.
Early intervention is essential. Left untreated, ADHD can amplify depressive symptoms, and depression can make managing ADHD even harder. A combination of therapies, lifestyle changes, and, where appropriate, medication can help you build healthier habits and improve your overall quality of life.
How Oxford CBT Can Help Individuals with ADHD and Depression
At Oxford CBT, we provide compassionate and professional support to help you navigate ADHD and depression. Our team specialises in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based approach that is highly effective for managing both conditions.
We can help you:
- Understand the connection between ADHD and depression.
- Develop practical strategies to improve focus, time management, and emotional regulation.
- Reframe negative thought patterns and build healthier, more constructive habits.
- Create routines that reduce stress and overwhelm.
Oxford CBT offers personalised treatment plans designed to meet your unique needs, providing the tools and guidance to help you move forward with confidence.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with ADHD, depression, or both, don’t hesitate to reach out. With the right support, it’s possible to regain balance, improve wellbeing, and start enjoying life again.
Conclusion
Living with ADHD and depression can feel like trying to navigate life with the brakes on, leaving you frustrated, overwhelmed, and stuck. But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and support is available to help you manage both conditions.
By understanding the connection between ADHD and depression, recognising the symptoms, and seeking the right combination of therapy, strategies, and, where needed, medication, it’s possible to regain focus, lift your mood, and move forward with confidence.
At Oxford CBT, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With professional support and practical tools tailored to your needs, you can break free from the challenges of ADHD and depression and start building a happier, more balanced life.
If you’re ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help you find clarity, confidence, and hope.
References
- Lee et al. (2016) Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, its treatment with medication and the probability of developing a depressive disorder: A nationwide population-based study in Taiwan. Journal of affective disorders. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26433758/
- Babinski DE, Neely KA, Ba DM, Liu GL (2020) Depression and suicidal behavior in young adult men and women with ADHD: Evidence from claims data. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 81 (6) 7-13. https://www.psychiatrist.com/jcp/young-adults-with-adhd-depression-and-suicidal-behavior/
- Zhao et al. (2024) Dysfunction of neurotransmitter metabolism is associated with the severity of depression in first-diagnosed, drug-naïve depressed patients. Journal of affective disorders. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38199403/
- Bollmann et al. (2015) Developmental changes in gamma-aminobutyric acid levels in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Translational psychiatry. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26101852/
- Wechsler et al. (2023) Assessing aetiological overlap between child and adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms in an extended family design. BJPsych open. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37671545/
- Garcia-Argibay et al. (2024) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder: Evidence From Multiple Genetically Informed Designs. Biological psychiatry. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37562520/
- Findling (1996) Open-label treatment of comorbid depression and attentional disorders with co-administration of serotonin reuptake inhibitors and psychostimulants in children, adolescents, and adults: a case series. Journal of child and adolescent psychopharmacology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9231310/
Author – Tom Murfitt
With over a decade’s experience in providing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Tom has worked in both the NHS and private sector to help adults and children to overcome a range of difficulties and improve their mental wellbeing. In addition to being an experienced CBT therapist, Tom is also an accredited Mindfulness teacher, providing courses locally, in businesses and schools. You can read more about us here.
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