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Does ADHD Increase Relapse Risk in Clinical Depression? 

PostedSeptember 4, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 8, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

The ADHD impact on depression relapse risk is a crucial consideration in mental health treatment. Research suggests that individuals with both ADHD and depression are at an increased risk of relapse, as the symptoms of ADHD can interfere with the effectiveness of depression treatment. ADHD often involves difficulties with focus, organisation, and emotional regulation, which can worsen depressive symptoms or make it more challenging to maintain treatment progress. 

Several risk factors contribute to the increased recurrence of depression in people with ADHD. The lack of structure or stability in daily life, common in ADHD, can trigger episodes of depression. Additionally, emotional dysregulation often associated with ADHD may lead to more frequent or severe depressive episodes, increasing the likelihood of relapse. 

Complete your ADHD self-screening

How ADHD Affects Depression Relapse 

Risk factors 

The risk factors for relapse in individuals with both ADHD and depression include inconsistent treatment adherence, poor emotional regulation, and chronic stress. 

Recurrence 

Individuals with ADHD are more vulnerable to the recurrence of depression due to the compounded effects of both conditions, making continuous monitoring and support essential. 

In conclusion, ADHD impact on depression relapse risk highlights the need for integrated treatment strategies that address both conditions simultaneously to reduce the risk of relapse and promote long-term mental health. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.   

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Depression.  

Complete your ADHD self-screening
Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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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