What are the distinguishing features of anxiety that are not present in ADHD?

PostedAugust 28, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 8, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Distinguishing between Anxiety vs ADHD symptoms is an important comparison to make, as both conditions share common features such as restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. However, there are key differences between the two that can help clinicians differentiate anxiety from ADHD and provide the correct diagnosis. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective treatment.

Key Differences Between Anxiety and ADHD

While both anxiety and ADHD can lead to difficulty focusing, they stem from different causes and present distinct symptoms.

Unique Anxiety Traits

One of the unique anxiety traits is excessive worry or fear about potential future events. Individuals with anxiety often find themselves overwhelmed by thoughts of what might go wrong, leading to constant rumination and stress. This worry can be so intense that it interferes with daily activities, causing physical symptoms like muscle tension, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. These symptoms are not typically present in ADHD.

Avoidance Behaviours

Another distinguishing feature of anxiety is avoidance. People with anxiety may actively avoid situations or tasks that trigger their fears, such as social gatherings, public speaking, or specific work-related activities. This is not a typical response in ADHD, where individuals may struggle with organisation and time management but rarely avoid tasks out of fear.

Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety often comes with physical symptoms like trembling, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues, which are not characteristic of ADHD. While ADHD can cause restlessness and hyperactivity, the physical signs of anxiety are more pronounced and tend to be linked to an underlying sense of fear or panic.

In conclusion, the comparison between anxiety vs ADHD symptoms highlights distinct features that differentiate the two conditions. Anxiety is characterised by excessive worry, fear, and physical symptoms, while ADHD primarily involves impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. Proper diagnosis is essential for tailoring effective treatment strategies to help individuals manage their symptoms.

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.

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.