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Are there specific tests to differentiate between ADHD and anxiety disorders? 

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Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Diagnostic tests for ADHD and anxiety focus on identifying shared or overlapping symptoms for both disorders. While both ADHD and anxiety can cause issues with focus, restlessness, and irritability, the causes of these symptoms are quite different. Accurate diagnosis is key to providing effective treatment, and specific differentiation tools help clinicians make that distinction. 

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Key Tests for Differentiating ADHD and Anxiety 

Clinicians use a combination of diagnostic tests for ADHD and anxiety to assess and differentiate these disorders. Here are some of the primary tools used in the process: 

Behavioural Questionnaires and Rating Scales 

Rating scales like the Conners’ Rating Scales or the ADHD Rating Scale are commonly used to assess ADHD symptoms, including inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These scales gather information from parents, teachers, and sometimes the individual themselves. When used for anxiety, scales like the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) scale focus on measuring anxiety symptoms like excessive worry, fear, and physical symptoms such as restlessness or rapid heart rate.  

Clinical Interviews 

In addition to standard questionnaires, clinical interviews allow clinicians to gather detailed information about the person’s medical history, symptom progression, and impact on daily life. Through interviews, clinicians can discern whether the person’s focus issues arise from external distractions (common in ADHD) or from persistent worry and fear (common in anxiety). 

Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing 

In some cases, neuropsychological testing is used to assess cognitive abilities, executive function, and memory. Individuals with ADHD may show impairments in working memory and attention span, while those with anxiety might demonstrate more signs of cognitive overload due to chronic worry. 

In conclusion, diagnostic tests for ADHD and anxiety are essential in accurately differentiating between the two disorders. The combination of behavioural questionnaires, clinical interviews, and neuropsychological tests helps clinicians identify the root cause of symptoms, leading to appropriate treatment plans. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Differential Diagnosis of ADHD.

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Avery Lombardi, MSc
Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

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
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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