Can Imaging Predict ADHD Comorbidities?

PostedOctober 7, 2025

UpdatedOctober 7, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

ADHD imaging comorbidities are a growing area of research that offers insight into how ADHD interacts with other mental health conditions. Recent advancements in neuroimaging techniques have shown that brain scans, particularly fMRI and MRI, can highlight underlying structural and functional differences that may predict the presence of comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in individuals with ADHD.

Studies have found that people with ADHD often exhibit differences in brain regions related to emotion regulation and social processing, which are crucial for understanding anxiety and depression. For example, reduced gray matter volume in areas such as the prefrontal cortex and amygdala can signal a higher likelihood of anxiety and depressive symptoms. Additionally, brain scans can help identify the overlap between ADHD and autism, where structural differences in the social brain networks may be present, offering a clearer picture of a person’s mental health.

How It Helps in Predicting Comorbidities

Imaging as a Predictive Tool

By identifying these brain regions and patterns, imaging can help clinicians predict whether a person with ADHD is at risk of developing additional conditions. Early detection through neuroimaging allows for better-targeted treatments, such as CBT for emotional regulation or medication for both ADHD and its comorbidities.

Tailoring Treatment

Using brain scans to detect comorbid conditions like anxiety or depression enables healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans more effectively. For instance, ADHD medications may be combined with antidepressants or anxiolytics for comprehensive care.

For more insights into ADHD comorbidities and the role of imaging, visit providers like ADHD Certify for expert consultations.

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

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.