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Can ADHD and Depression Occur Together? 

PostedOctober 16, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, ADHD and depression often co-occur, and it’s more common than many realise. Living with untreated ADHD can lead to repeated frustration, underachievement, and relationship strain, which over time may trigger depressive symptoms. This overlap is known as comorbidity ADHD depression, and it can complicate both diagnosis and treatment. 

Discover if you have ADHD

Understanding the Dual Diagnosis 

Dual diagnosis ADHD refers to having both ADHD and a mood disorder like depression. ADHD affects focus, motivation, and executive function, while depression impacts mood, energy, and self-worth. Together, they can create a difficult cycle, where untreated ADHD symptoms fuel feelings of failure, and low mood makes it even harder to manage tasks. 

Here’s how this pairing might show up: 

Lack of motivation vs lack of energy:  

ADHD might cause procrastination or distraction; depression can drain the energy to even begin. 

Low self-esteem:  

Years of being misunderstood, labelled as lazy, or failing to meet expectations can take a toll. 

Irritability and emotional sensitivity:  

Both conditions can heighten emotional reactivity and increase interpersonal stress. 

Difficulty seeking help:  

Executive dysfunction and low mood together often delay or prevent access to support. 

If you suspect both ADHD and depression are part of your experience, it’s crucial to work with a clinician who understands the nuances of comorbidity. Treatments should be tailored to address both conditions simultaneously for best results. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to better understand how brain imaging can inform ADHD treatment.  

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

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Phoebe Carter, MSc
Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

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.