ADHD vs Anxiety: How to Identify the Difference
/Is my child struggling with symptoms of Anxiety or ADHD? … Or is it Both?
Many parents come to me for help in distinguishing between ADHD and anxiety in their child. Both disorders can manifest with similar symptoms, such as restlessness, inattention, and impulsivity.
Understanding the differences between ADHD and anxiety is vital to ensuring your child gets the correct diagnosis and treatment plan.
Join me as we take a quick dive into the differences between ADHD and anxiety, as well as exploring the benefits of seeking professional help. The first step in identifying whether your child suffers from ADHD or anxiety is to understand the symptoms of both disorders. ADHD symptoms often include forgetfulness, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and difficulty with focus and concentration. Anxiety symptoms can include panic attacks, social anxiety, excessive worry, and excessive fear.
ADHD and anxiety share overlapping symptoms but are also distinct
Children with anxiety may show signs of clinginess or avoidance of social situations. ADHD symptoms can be more physical and external, whereas anxiety symptoms are typically more internal. Another essential factor to consider is the age of onset of symptoms. ADHD symptoms often manifest in early childhood, while anxiety symptoms may appear across the life span. It is vital to consider how long symptoms have been present, and how they have affected your child's life. If your child has struggled in school or social situations due to poor concentration or impulsivity, ADHD may be the culprit. Anxiety can lead to distraction and difficulty concentrating, which can mimic ADHD symptoms. However, for some children, stress may trigger ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to remember that misdiagnosing a child can be dangerous. A thorough evaluation by a professional can help identify co-occurring disorders and provide the appropriate treatment plan.
ADHD medications, such as stimulants, can worsen anxiety if given to a child who has underlying anxiety. To get a proper diagnosis, it is essential to work with a professional who can help distinguish between symptoms and identify potential underlying causes. Working with a certified therapist is an invaluable step towards accurately understanding whether a child is grappling with ADHD or anxiety. Most experienced therapists are well-trained in assessing and diagnosing these conditions, employing a plethora of evidence-based techniques to differentiate between the two. They approach the process with sensitivity, understanding that each child's experience is unique and nuanced. In sessions, therapists may use structured interviews, behavioral observations, and standardized tests to gather in-depth information about a child's emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns. This data offers rich insights into whether a child's challenges align more with ADHD or anxiety, paving the pathway for a tailored treatment plan. Trusting in the expertise and guidance of a therapist can provide the clarity needed to navigate this complex journey. Once a proper diagnosis is established your child’s therapist may recommend further evaluation by a child and adolescent psychiatrist to deem whether or not medication might be needed, based on the acuity of symptoms. If you are hesitant about medications, there is even the potential for genetic testing to be done first to avoid the trial and error guessing game approach.
Long story short, the differences between ADHD and anxiety in children can be challenging but is critical. Understanding the age of onset of symptoms, the role of stress and anxiety, and the potential harmful effects of misdiagnosis is vital. Parents can ensure that their child receives the right treatment by working with professionals who can assess and diagnose co-occurring disorders. Knowing the differences between ADHD and anxiety will provide parents with the tools to navigate their child's treatment and help their child thrive. Therapists play a vital role in helping families sort through the complexities - providing clarity and guidance in establishing an accurate diagnosis. They bring a wealth of knowledge, training, and expertise in distinguishing between these conditions, and their empathetic approach ensures a supportive environment, making this challenging journey less daunting. By working closely with the child and the family, they can develop a comprehensive understanding of the child's behaviors, emotions, and experiences, allowing them to identify whether the symptoms align more with ADHD or anxiety. This precision in diagnosis is the cornerstone of an effective treatment plan, setting the foundation for the child's successful navigation through their unique challenges.
Regardless, I know your child is in good hands since you’ve put in the time to read this!
- Jennifer Nickels, MSW, LSW
independent contractor at NOVITSKY MD boutique mind doctors
Want to learn more about me and my 30+ years of experience and treatment approach here.