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What Makes ADHD Imaging Different from Bipolar or OCD? 

PostedOctober 7, 2025
UpdatedOctober 7, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

ADHD vs bipolar OCD imaging reveals distinct brain patterns that help differentiate between these psychiatric disorders. While ADHD, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) share some overlapping symptoms, neuroimaging biomarkers provide a clearer understanding of the underlying brain differences. Brain scans, including fMRI and PET scans, show how these disorders affect brain activity in unique ways, supporting more accurate differential diagnosis. 

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Key Imaging Differences Between ADHD, Bipolar, and OCD 

ADHD imaging typically shows differences in regions of the brain responsible for attention and impulse control, like the prefrontal cortex and striatal regions. ADHD brain imaging often highlights lower activity in these areas, which are essential for cognitive function and emotional regulation. On the other hand, bipolar disorder shows more intense brain activity in regions such as the amygdala, involved in emotion regulation and reward processing. Meanwhile, OCD brain imaging commonly reveals changes in the orbitofrontal cortex and basal ganglia, areas connected to decision-making and compulsive behaviour. 

How Imaging Helps with Differential Diagnosis 

Imaging plays a key role in distinguishing ADHD from other disorders like bipolar disorder and OCD. Common symptoms across these conditions can overlap, such as inattention in ADHD and mood swings in bipolar disorder, making brain imaging vital for pinpointing the exact disorder. For example, ADHD presents with challenges in attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, while bipolar disorder involves drastic mood swings. OCD presents intrusive thoughts and compulsive actions. Each disorder requires tailored treatment, with medication and CBT offering effective options depending on the brain patterns revealed by imaging. 

Imaging provides a critical tool for clinicians, enabling the differentiation between ADHD and similar disorders to ensure proper treatment. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personalised consultations. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD vs bipolar OCD imaging.

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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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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. 

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