Can Imaging Predict ADHD Comorbidity with Anxiety or Depression?

PostedOctober 7, 2025

UpdatedOctober 7, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD comorbidity imaging plays a crucial role in understanding how Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) interacts with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. Brain scans, particularly fMRI and MRI, can help detect patterns of brain connectivity that may indicate the presence of these comorbidities, providing a more comprehensive understanding of a patient’s mental health.

Imaging and ADHD with Anxiety or Depression

In individuals with ADHD, brain connectivity often shows abnormalities in regions responsible for emotional regulation, such as the prefrontal cortex and amygdala. These areas play a key role in regulating emotions and impulse control, which is why ADHD is frequently seen alongside anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that altered neural pathways and brain activity are common in both ADHD and mood disorders, helping researchers and clinicians identify those at risk for comorbid conditions. Emotional dysregulation is a significant symptom that links these disorders, often highlighted in brain scans.

How Imaging Helps in Diagnosing Comorbid Anxiety or Depression

Key Symptoms and Treatment

Individuals with ADHD and comorbid anxiety may experience heightened worry, restlessness, and an inability to focus, while those with depression may show more prominent signs of fatigue and low mood. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), along with medications such as antidepressants or stimulants, can help address both the ADHD and the comorbid conditions.

Imaging helps provide more targeted treatments by identifying brain regions affected by both conditions, ensuring that therapies are better tailored for individuals with ADHD and comorbidity.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations tailored to your ADHD care and support needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD and comorbid anxiety or depression.

Phoebe Carter, MSc

Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.