ADHD symptoms vs depression?
Quick answer: ADHD involves long‑term attention and organization challenges. Depression impacts focus and energy but is often accompanied by low mood, sleep changes, and loss of interest. Since 20% to 50% of adults with ADHD also experience depression, clinicians assess both to tailor treatment.
Depression can reduce energy and focus, while ADHD involves longstanding attention and organization challenges across settings.
Comorbidity is common: depression occurs in about 20 to 50% of adults with ADHD across studies. Address both mood and attention patterns for best results.
A clinician reviews onset, context, and associated symptoms (low mood, anhedonia, sleep/appetite change) to clarify the primary issue and recommend care.
Depression primarily affects mood and energy. ADHD reflects a persistent attention and executive pattern across settings. Both can coexist and a clinician can separate them.