What mental health conditions commonly co-occur with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD?

PostedSeptember 15, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 17, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Many individuals undergoing ADHD treatment for the hyperactive-impulsive subtype also experience other mental health conditions. These co-occurring disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or learning difficulties, can complicate symptoms and affect how well a person responds to ADHD therapy. Recognising and addressing these overlaps is key to building an effective treatment plan.

Children and adults with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may struggle not just with focus or impulsivity, but also with low self-esteem, emotional dysregulation, or inconsistent academic performance. These added layers can increase frustration and make daily functioning more difficult if left unaddressed.

Common co-occurring conditions

Here are some of the most frequently seen mental health conditions that occur alongside hyperactive-impulsive ADHD:

Anxiety disorders
Often triggered by chronic overstimulation or social struggles, anxiety can heighten restlessness and affect sleep and concentration. CBT is frequently used to treat both anxiety and ADHD symptoms simultaneously.

Depression
Persistent mood changes may arise from long-term struggles with attention, impulsivity, or academic underachievement. Effective ADHD therapy often involves emotional support and mood monitoring.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
In children, frequent conflicts with authority or refusal to follow rules may co-occur, particularly when behaviour strategies are lacking at home or in school settings.

Learning disorders
Challenges with reading, maths, or writing often surface in classroom environments and may go unnoticed without formal assessment. These can heavily impact academic performance and confidence.

Because these conditions often interact and overlap, comprehensive care is essential. Visit providers like ADHD Certify to explore personalised ADHD treatment that considers the full mental health picture.

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

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve 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 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.