Researchers Discover Link between ADHD And Anxiety

PsychCentral recently published an article outlining new genetic research that links ADHD and anxiety disorders. ADHD and anxiety disorders seem to be similar in genetic makeup, making researchers believe there may be a link between the two. It’s been shown that around 30 percent of those with ADHD also have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Anxiety has a way of increasing and worsening the symptoms of ADHD because it messes with focus–something ADHD already makes difficult.

Connection between ADHD and anxiety explained

Researchers still aren’t completely sure on why ADHD and anxiety have this link–but there are many theories floating around with pieces of research tacked to them. Researchers think ADHD can worsen or even produce anxiety; if someone’s ADHD is making daily life hectic and disorienting, that could easily produce a fair amount of anxiety that could eventually become overwhelming. It’s thought that ADHD cannot create an anxiety disorder, though–but someone with ADHD has a higher chance of developing one.

It’s important to recognize when your child is struggling with ADHD or anxiety in order to help them reach their full potential and overcome their challenges.

Different types of ADHD and anxiety

According to Mayo Clinic, there are three types of ADHD:

1. Inattentive: The symptoms of predominantly inattentive ADHD majorly fall under being inattentive, such as getting distracted easily, having trouble organizing tasks, trouble with focusing, etc.
2. Hyperactive-Impulsive: These symptoms largely fall under impulsive and hyperactive behavior, such as frequent fidgeting, talking too much, having issues staying still, etc.
3. Combination: This is the most common type of ADHD and it’s a mix of symptoms from inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive.

According to Mayo Clinic, there are many types of anxiety disorders common to youth:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder: This is excessive and reoccuring worry or stress over events or activities–even regular ones. Often creates a feeling of being out of control or affects how someone feels physically.
• Panic Disorder: This is characterized by multiple episodes of intense fear or terror that escalate to a peak in minutes. It often creates feelings of helplessness, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, etc.
• Separation Anxiety Disorder: This is a childhood disorder in which a child has an escalated amount of anxiety related to separating from parents or guardians.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): This is characterized by large amounts of anxiety surrounding social situations due to a fear of being embarrassed or judged.

Asheville Academy is here to help

Asheville Academy is a therapeutic boarding school for young girls, ages 10-14, struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, and other behavioral or mental issues.

For more information about how Asheville Academy can help your daughter, call 800-264-8709 today!