Undiagnosed ADHD and Its Relationship with Depression
ADHD and depression are not commonly used in the same conversation, let alone the same sentence. They are two very different conditions, after all.
With that said, there can be some overlap and connection between the two. Some people may even experience both at the same time. It can become even more complicated when ADHD is undiagnosed.
To better understand how these two interact, let’s take a further look.
An ADHD Overview
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is most often associated with children. However, it can also have a profound effect on adults alike. It’s characterized by a number of different symptoms that can impact how your brain and body function in daily life.
Common symptoms of ADHD include:
Inattention
Trouble focusing
Forgetfulness
Disorganization
Impulsivity
Hyperactivity
Restlessness
Irritability
Why ADHD Goes Undiagnosed
You would think ADHD would be easy to diagnose, especially with the symptoms listed above. The reality is that everyone is different, and it truly is a case-by-case scenario.
There are often stereotypes around overly active young boys that they are “just being boys.” Some of these symptoms or behaviors can be easily overlooked and written off. For girls, symptoms may vary enough and be less obvious that they can be misunderstood as something else.
When looking at these symptoms, any of them can also be indicative of some other issue. Or worse, just judged as being weird or quirky.
Where ADHD and Depression Connect
When you’re living with ADHD, especially undiagnosed ADHD, it can start to take its toll. You may feel like an outcast compared to your peers. You may feel judgment or shaming from others who don’t understand the underlying cause of such symptoms. These emotions can make the development of depression more likely. You can be the most ambitious or be quite smart, but what gets highlighted is this appearance of being lazy or disorganized or overactive.
The Relationship with Depression
Overlap of Symptoms
As mentioned above, certain symptoms can be indicative of some other condition. Depression would be one of those. Poor concentration and feeling misunderstood can both be applicable to depression. This also backs up the idea that ADHD is commonly misdiagnosed.
Chronic Stress
When you live with ADHD, basic everyday tasks can be much more difficult. Struggling with routine things, academic or work performance, feeling successful, and forming strong relationships can keep you in a constant state of stress. Over time, this type of stress can fuel depression.
Lower Self-Esteem
Not having an understanding of what is going on with you or why these symptoms are manifesting can lead to a negative self-image. Low self-esteem can be further driven by compounded internalized feelings and begin to trigger feelings of depression.
Interpersonal Relationship Difficulties
Having unexplained symptoms, as is common with undiagnosed ADHD, can make it more difficult to establish healthy relationships during your youth. The childhood and adolescent years can be tough, and some of that dynamic can stay with you into adulthood.
Certain symptoms can make social settings or obligations more difficult. They can also lead to self isolation when you feel misunderstood. We’re all social beings and if we spend too much time in our own solace, it can create worsening depression.
Fear of Failing
When normal life things feel hard, it can lead to avoidance of taking on challenges or putting yourself out there. Purposely making yourself be smaller to dance around the accommodations you need can be straining. As a daily practice, it’s no surprise you may start feeling depressed.
Continuing to leave ADHD undiagnosed and unmanaged once you have any inkling can transform into additional issues. If any of the above sounds familiar, it is worth taking a deeper look. Contact us to learn more about ADHD or depression treatment.