Recognising Depression in Adults with ADHD

Living with ADHD can often mask or mimic the symptoms of depression, making it difficult to tell when you're dealing with more than just a distracted or chaotic mind. Furthermore, people with ADHD have an increased risk of developing depression. For adults with ADHD, recognising depression is critical, not only for accurate treatment, but also for overall well-being.

Shared Symptoms Can Blur the Lines

ADHD and depression can share several overlapping traits:

• Fatigue
  
  
• Low motivation
  
  
• Irritability
  
  
• Difficulty concentrating
  
  
• Restlessness or agitation
  
  
• Difficulties with sleep
  
  

These similarities may delay diagnosis. For example, ADHD-related fatigue might come from overstimulation and mental exhaustion. But if you're still feeling drained after rest, it could be more than ADHD.

Emotional Warning Signs

While ADHD often causes frustration and forgetfulness, depression adds a deeper emotional weight. Look for these markers:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness
  
  
• Guilt, worthlessness, or shame
  
  
• Loss of interest in hobbies or social connection
  
  
• Thoughts of failure or self-criticism
  
  
• Reduced ability to experience pleasure
  
  

If these distressing experiences last longer than two weeks, they may point to major depressive disorder.

Getting the Right Help

Accurate diagnosis is the first step. Depression and ADHD can coexist (called comorbidity), and treating both is often necessary. If you're unsure, speak to a mental health professional. Tracking your symptoms, especially how long they last and what triggers them, can help your clinician see the full picture.

For more insight into the link between ADHD and depression, read Flow Neuroscience’s guide.