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Can Children with ADHD Have Other Mental Health Conditions? 

PostedSeptember 2, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 2, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Yes, it is quite common for children with ADHD to experience ADHD comorbidity, meaning they may also have other mental health conditions alongside ADHD. These co-occurring conditions can include anxiety, depression, learning difficulties or behavioural disorders, which can make diagnosis and treatment more complex. 

ADHD comorbidity can influence how a child behaves, feels and learns. For example, a child with both ADHD and anxiety may appear more distracted or withdrawn, while one with ADHD and oppositional behaviour might show more defiance or frustration. Recognising these overlapping challenges is key to providing the right support, as treating ADHD alone may not address the full picture. 

Common Symptoms 

Mood swings or low mood 
Children with ADHD comorbidity may also experience symptoms of depression or anxiety, affecting their overall wellbeing and behaviour. 

Struggles with learning 
Co-occurring conditions such as dyslexia or language delays can add to the challenges of staying focused and keeping up in school. 

Emotional and social difficulties 
Children may have trouble managing emotions or forming friendships, especially if multiple mental health issues are present. 

Understanding ADHD comorbidity helps parents, carers and educators take a more holistic approach to a child’s needs, ensuring that all aspects of their development and wellbeing are supported effectively. 

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 Clinical interviews and History Taking.  

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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