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Does ADHD Worsen the Cognitive Effects of Depression? 

PostedSeptember 3, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 3, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Research suggests that the ADHD impact on depression cognition can be significant, as both conditions can affect attention, memory and decision-making. When they occur together, the cognitive strain can be more severe, leading to difficulties in daily functioning and problem-solving. 

People with ADHD often experience cognitive deficits such as poor working memory, distractibility and reduced processing speed. Depression can add to these challenges by causing slowed thinking, lack of concentration and indecisiveness. When combined, these effects may not simply add up but rather intensify, increasing overall symptom severity. 

How ADHD and Depression Affect Cognition Together 

Memory problems 

The ADHD impact on depression cognition is evident in memory, as ADHD may cause forgetfulness while depression can affect recall and mental clarity. 

Reduced focus 

Both conditions interfere with sustained attention, making it harder to complete tasks or follow through on plans. 

Slowed thinking 

ADHD may cause mental restlessness, while depression slows cognitive processing. Together, they can create a frustrating mix of distraction and mental fatigue. 

Understanding the ADHD impact on depression cognition is important for creating effective treatment strategies. Interventions should address both the attentional difficulties linked to ADHD and the thinking-related symptoms of depression to improve overall functioning and quality of life. 

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.  

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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