Can Brain Imaging Distinguish ADHD from ADHD-like Symptoms?

PostedOctober 7, 2025

UpdatedOctober 7, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD differential imaging has become an essential tool in understanding and diagnosing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Given the behavioral overlap between ADHD and other conditions that present with similar symptoms, brain imaging can provide crucial insights to differentiate ADHD from ADHD-like symptoms. By examining structural and functional markers through techniques like MRI and fMRI, clinicians can more accurately identify underlying neurological differences.

Imaging and the Diagnosis of ADHD

In cases of ADHD, brain imaging often reveals differences in areas such as the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia, which are responsible for attention, impulse control, and executive functions. These functional markers help clinicians to distinguish ADHD from other conditions that may mimic its symptoms, like anxiety or mood disorders, where brain activity patterns differ. For example, structural MRI findings can show reduced brain volume in certain regions in ADHD patients, but this is not typically seen in other conditions that may look similar on paper.

How Imaging Supports Accurate Diagnosis

ADHD Symptoms

Common symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These behaviours are linked to abnormalities in brain regions responsible for regulating attention and self-control. Stimulant medications or CBT can help in managing these symptoms by improving focus and emotional regulation.

ADHD-like Symptoms

Conditions such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders can exhibit similar symptoms but differ in underlying brain function. Understanding these distinctions through differential brain imaging enables more effective and targeted treatments.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations for a deeper dive into ADHD differential imaging.

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

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

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.