ADHD and anxiety can look similar, especially inattentive type ADHD. Since many mental health providers are more familiar with anxiety disorders it can be an easy miss an ADHD diagnosis, but getting the correct diagnosis matters. It determines more than just medications (should you want them) - it can shape the kind of therapy you receive, books you pick up for support, strategies you implement, etc.
ADHD is a neurodevelopment disorder that shows up in childhood and impacts the way folks regulate attention, organization, emotions, and impulsivity. There is a common misconception that all folks with ADHD were once kids who 'bounced off the walls,' but it can also look like racing thoughts, overthinking, and an inability to relax.
Which looks and sounds like anxiety. Anxiety disorders can manifest at any stage of life and folks experience excessive worry, dread, or fear for at least 6 consecutive months. Excessive meaning that, when we zoom out, the level of fear or worry isn’t in proportion to the situation.
The key difference is:
ADHD is rooted in difficulty with regulation (attention, organization, follow-through)
Anxiety is rooted in fear, worry, and trying to prevent something from going wrong
This could look or feel like:
ADHD - “I want to do this, but I just can’t get myself to start”
Anxiety - “I’m worried something will go wrong if I do this.”
ADHD - missed parts of the conversation because of poor focus
Anxiety - missed parts of the conversation because you were worried about how you were being perceived
ADHD - your mind feels busy, scattered, or hard to direct
Anxiety - your mind is constantly replaying worries or worst case scenarios
While the behaviors are often similar, the drive behind them is different. Want to read more in depth post about the differences - check it out here.
If you are looking for the right tools and approaches to turning down the constant internal chaos, we are accepting new clients for ADHD evaluations and therapy.