ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and anxiety are two commonly diagnosed conditions that are often, but not always, found together. Many adults and children with ADHD also experience anxiety symptoms, and the overlap can sometimes feel confusing or overwhelming. To help manage the burden of these feelings, consider seeking help from a qualified therapist to work through your thoughts and feelings in a safe space.
This guide explores the important question – can ADHD cause anxiety? It looks at how and why these conditions can often overlap, what research and therapeutic practice reveal, and how understanding the connection can make symptoms easier to manage.
Can ADHD Cause Anxiety? – The Straight Answer
Yes, ADHD can cause anxiety, but not in every case, and not for everyone. The relationship between the two is usually indirect. Rather than ADHD itself being the cause, it is often the challenges that come with ADHD symptoms (such as forgetfulness, impulsivity, or emotional intensity) that create situations where anxiety develops.
It is also important to remember that anxiety can occur on its own, or it can co-exist with ADHD without being directly caused by it. Every person’s experience is different, which is why careful assessment and personalised support are so important. You are never on your own, although it may often feel that way.
Talking through your thoughts and feelings with an unbiased voice can help put things into perspective, ensuring that your thoughts don’t overwhelm you.
Why ADHD Often Leads to Anxiety
Executive Function Struggles
One of the core features of ADHD is difficulty with executive function. This includes the ability to plan, organise, prioritise tasks and stay focused. Missed deadlines, lost items, or ongoing disorganisation can lead to constant stress. Over time, this stress often turns into anxiety; for example, if you are in school, university, or the workplace, these constant stressor may lead to performance anxiety.
Emotional Dysregulation
ADHD is closely linked to emotional dysregulation. People may feel emotions more intensely and struggle to calm down once upset. Small problems can feel overwhelming, while conflicts may take hours or days to recover from. Living with such emotional intensity often increases vulnerability to anxiety, and in some cases, may lead to panic attacks or generalised anxiety disorder.
Social Challenges & Rejection Sensitivity
Social situations can be especially difficult for people with ADHD. Interrupting, losing focus during conversations, or appearing “too much” can sometimes lead to misunderstanding or rejection. Many individuals also experience rejection sensitive dysphoria, which presents as a heightened sensitivity to perceived criticism or exclusion. These experiences can fuel social anxiety, affecting confidence in friendships, work relationships, and romantic life.
Trauma from Past Experiences
Growing up with undiagnosed or unsupported ADHD often means living with repeated setbacks. Being told to “try harder,” being labelled as lazy, or feeling misunderstood by teachers, peers, or family can have a lasting impact. Over time, these experiences may create trauma-like patterns, where anxiety is triggered by fear of further failure, judgement, or rejection.
When Anxiety Develops First
In some cases, anxiety comes before ADHD is recognised. For example, a child who feels anxious about falling behind in school may actually be struggling with attention, memory, or focus issues linked to undiagnosed ADHD. Because anxiety can dominate the picture, ADHD sometimes goes unnoticed, meaning the underlying challenges remain untreated.
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, or both, consider speaking to an experienced, non-judgemental therapist, who can help you unpack your struggles and get back to a fulfilling life. ADHD and anxiety should be diagnoses, not dictators in how you should live your life.
ADHD vs. Anxiety – Understanding the Differences
Although ADHD and anxiety often appear together, they are fundamentally different conditions with distinct causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Understanding the differences can help individuals recognise what they are experiencing and seek the most effective support.
ADHD is a neurodevelopment condition that primarily affects attention, focus, impulse control, and executive function. Common ADHD traits include forgetfulness, difficulty organising tasks, restlessness, and challenges with time management. Emotional dysregulation and impulsivity are also typical features. These symptoms are persistent and often appear in multiple areas of life, including work, school, and relationships.
Anxiety, on the other hand, is an emotional and physiological response to perceived threats or stress. It is characterised by excessive worry, nervousness, racing thoughts, and physical tension such as a racing heart or shallow breathing. Anxiety can be generalised, situational, or social, and it may fluctuate depending on life circumstances.
While ADHD can contribute to anxiety, it can also occur independently. It is possible for anxiety to be the primary concern, with ADHD traits hidden or linked to stress alone.
Recognising the difference is particularly important for effective support and treatment. ADHD interventions often focus on developing coping strategies, improving executive function, and managing attention, while anxiety treatment may include cognitive behavioural techniques, relaxation exercises, and exposure-based strategies.
For a more in-depth comparison and practical guidance, read ADHD vs. Anxiety: What’s the Difference?. Understanding both conditions is a key step towards better self-awareness, targeted support, and improved mental wellbeing
Summary and Key Takeaways
So, does ADHD cause anxiety? In many cases, yes; ADHD symptoms can contribute to anxiety by creating ongoing stress, social challenges, or emotional overwhelm. However, anxiety can also exist independently, or develop first and mask ADHD symptoms.
Key points to remember:
- ADHD and anxiety frequently co-occur.
- Anxiety can arise as a result of ADHD struggles, but not always.
- Both conditions are manageable with the right strategies and support.
- Self-compassion and understanding are vital when facing both ADHD and anxiety.
Therapeutic support can help individuals explore how ADHD and anxiety affect their lives, develop practical coping strategies, and build confidence. With the right guidance, it is possible to manage both conditions effectively and move towards a calmer, more fulfilling life.