What Are the Symptoms of Anxiety in Someone with ADHD? 

Anxiety symptoms in ADHD can be complex, as both conditions often overlap, making it challenging to identify and differentiate their individual symptoms. ADHD is characterised by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, while anxiety involves persistent worry, fear, and nervousness. When these two conditions occur together, the symptoms of anxiety can manifest in various ways, influencing both emotional and physical well-being. 

Key Symptoms of Anxiety in ADHD 

Here are some common anxiety symptoms in ADHD that individuals may experience: 

Nervousness and Restlessness  

People with ADHD often struggle with restlessness and difficulty sitting still. When anxiety is present, these symptoms are intensified. The combination of ADHD’s hyperactivity and anxiety’s nervousness can lead to physical agitation, such as pacing, fidgeting, or an inability to relax, even in situations that don’t warrant such stress. 

Excessive Worry  

One of the hallmark symptoms of anxiety is worry, often about potential future events or past actions. Individuals with ADHD may have trouble controlling this worry, especially when they also face the challenges of managing time, completing tasks, or staying organised. The worry can be constant, ranging from concerns about personal performance to fears about social interactions, and can severely impact daily functioning. 

Difficulty Managing Stress  

While ADHD often involves impulsivity and emotional dysregulation, anxiety can amplify these reactions. People with both ADHD and anxiety may find it harder to cope with stress, resulting in emotional outbursts, irritability, or avoidance. The physical symptoms of anxiety, like a racing heart, shallow breathing, or sweating, can further exacerbate the challenges of managing ADHD. 

Sleep Issues  

Both ADHD and anxiety can lead to difficulties with sleep. For those with both conditions, the racing thoughts associated with anxiety can prevent them from falling asleep or cause frequent wake-ups throughout the night. The inability to manage stress or focus on tasks may also lead to overthinking at bedtime, worsening sleep quality. 

Fear of Failure or Rejection  

Due to their struggles with organisation, attention, and impulse control, individuals with ADHD may already feel insecure about their performance. When anxiety is added to the mix, the fear of failure or rejection can become overwhelming. This can result in avoidance of tasks, social situations, or performance-based scenarios, further impacting their self-esteem and personal growth. 

Conclusion 

Anxiety symptoms in ADHD often look different from the typical signs of anxiety alone. Nervousness, worry, physical symptoms, and difficulties managing stress are just a few ways that anxiety presents in those with ADHD. Understanding how these symptoms overlap and affect daily life is crucial for effective treatment. 

For more on managing anxiety symptoms in ADHD, visit ADHD Certify. For a deeper understanding of how worry and physical symptoms interact, read our complete guide to Anxiety disorders.