Comorbidity: Anxiety Disorders

The comorbidity this post will focus on today is anxiety disorders. Although it is a topic I have discussed before, I feel that it is time to take another look at this issue. It is an issue that many people struggle with, ADHD or not. 

So, without further ado, let’s get into it. 

What Is Anxiety Disorder?

Anxiety is a feeling that we all may feel at some point. In some situations, it can be beneficial, help become alert to possible danger and help us pay attention. It’s just the brain keeping us alert and warning of danger or stressful situation. For most, anxiety doesn’t often interfere too much with their daily lives.

However, this isn’t the case for others. For some, anxiety goes beyond just slight fear or nervousness. It can be a more intense feeling than that.

That’s when it becomes an anxiety disorder. 

According to an article in Additude magazine, written by Faith Chung, “anxiety disorder is characterized by baseless, irrational worry or fear that is persistent enough to interfere with state of mind, daily activities and personal relationships.”

Those with an anxiety disorder have a difficult time getting through their day.

Types and Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders

There are several different types of anxiety disorders. Here are some of them.

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Social Anxiety
• Separation Anxiety
• Panic Disorder
• Agoraphobia

There are a quite a few different types, but these are just some examples to give you an idea. 

For those with anxiety disorders, some symptoms may include:

• Difficulty focusing and concentrating
• Easily irritable
• Struggles with sleep
• Difficulty staying calm
• Panic, fear, and uneasiness
• Shortness of breath

Since there are quite a few symptoms, I won’t mention all of them, but here’s a few examples of symptoms.

Link Between ADHD and Anxiety Disorders

There is a strong link between these two conditions. Approximately 50 percent of ADHDers are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and are more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety than those without the condition. It is the most common comorbid diagnosis among adults with ADHD. 

ADHD on its own can make life really stressful. So it can be understandable to so many ADHDers struggle with some form of anxiety and/or anxiety disorders.

It can difficult to know whether it’s ADHD or anxiety as some symptoms overlap. However, there are still some ways to tell them apart. However, talking to a doctor or psychologist can help figure out this issue.

Those who are diagnosed with both conditions tend to have more severe anxiety symptoms than those without.

There are several different aspects that may lead up to ADHDers struggling so much with anxiety and being diagnosed with anxiety disorders. There is no clear cause or obvious reason for a strong connection between the two. 

One thing seems for sure is that many ADHDers struggle with some form of anxiety disorder. 

Treatment and Ways to Manage

There are some things that can help those struggling with an anxiety disorder and/or ADHD. 

Counselling and talking to a therapist can be beneficial for some. Getting therapy can help work through some of the person’s challenges, and find ways to manage your anxiety and/or ADHD. 

In some cases, medication is beneficial and can help improve the person’s symptoms, whether it be for ADHD or anxiety. Medication isn’t for everyone. Some may not benefit it from it. For others, it can make a significant difference. 

Other things that can help also include:

• Eating as healthy as possible
• Being more physically active
• Learn more about your disorder
• Getting a good night’s sleep
• Learn some relaxation techniques and stress management

There are several things that can help those with an anxiety disorder. It’s all about finding what works for them.

Final Thoughts

Anxiety disorders are definitely something that many people struggle with, whether they have ADHD or not. It is quite a bit more intense feeling than those without any anxiety disorders.

And sadly, many with ADHD find themselves struggling with this issue. Thankfully, there are some treatments and strategies that can help.