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How Does Anxiety Co-Occur with ADHD Combined Type? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Anxiety and ADHD frequently occur together, especially in adults and children with Combined Type ADHD. This form of ADHD involves both hyperactivity-impulsivity and inattentiveness, creating a mental load that makes daily life feel like a constant balancing act.It is unsurprising that many individuals with ADHD also experience anxiety. In fact, ADHD comorbid conditions such as anxiety are common in ADHD and can be effectively treated when properly identified. 

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Why ADHD and Anxiety Often Go Together 

Living with ADHD often involves feeling behind, misunderstood, or overwhelmed. Missed deadlines, forgotten tasks, and mental overload can understandably trigger anxiety. This overlap of ADHD anxiety often shows up as restlessness, racing thoughts, and difficulty relaxing all symptoms shared by both conditions. There is also a neurological link. Although they affect the brain differently, both ADHD and anxiety impact executive functioning. ADHD comorbid anxiety can be hard to tell which symptoms stem from which condition. 

Signs of Anxiety in People with ADHD Combined Type 

Anxiety in individuals with ADHD may not resemble traditional forms of worry. Instead, it might appear as: 

  • Overthinking minor decisions 
  • Struggling to relax or mentally switch off 
  • Constantly feeling on edge or tense 
  • Difficulty sleeping or disrupted sleep 
  • Feeling overwhelmed in loud or crowded environments 

These worry symptoms of anxiety may stem from executive dysfunction or emotional dysregulation linked to ADHD. Recognising the differences between the conditions can help identify the right support and strategies. Targeted interventions are the most effective way to support mental health with ADHD. 

Getting Support 

A proper assessment can be life-changing if you suspect both ADHD and anxiety. Many individuals find their anxiety lessens once their ADHD is managed more effectively. Support may include therapy, medication, mindfulness techniques, or ADHD coaching for ADHD and anxiety. The right approach can help individuals feel more in control of their lives. ADHD Comorbid conditions like anxiety do not define you, effective help is available, and it works. 

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Victoria Rowe, MSc
Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

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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