ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) is commonly diagnosed in school children, but this doesn’t mean it’s a kid’s disease. There are many adults who develop the disorder after they mature, and others who have unknowingly struggled with the disorder for years but never received a diagnosis.
Like any mental health issue, if left untreated, ADHD can create a personal environment that makes depression and anxiety more likely to strike.
There have been many studies that link untreated ADHD with other mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety. But why does this link exist?
How ADHD Can Increase Risk for Depression and Anxiety
ADHD typically has co-morbidities, which means that it tends to exist alongside other related problems. People with ADHD may be wired so that they are more likely to experience depression and anxiety.
Any type of mental health disorder that goes undiagnosed and untreated is likely to get worse, cause worsening symptoms, and possibly trigger other types of issues, including depression and anxiety.
ADHD can lead people to take dangerous risks. These risks can lead to unintended consequences, including financial problems, work-related problems, and relationship and family problems.
People with ADHD are typically more impulsive than others. Because those with ADHD may act without fully understanding the consequences of their actions, problems can eventually overwhelm the person – which can lead to anxiety and depression.
ADHD has been linked to substance abuse, especially alcohol abuse. Alcoholism increases a person’s risk of developing depression and anxiety.
You Get Better by Getting Better
There’s a common saying among mental health professionals: “You get better by getting better.” That simply means that getting treatment can greatly improve a person’s quality of life who has any kind of mental health issue.
By controlling and limiting how ADHD affects a person’s life, how it causes impulsive actions, and how it interferes with the ability to maintain meaningful relationships and a career, everything gets easier to deal with.
And, when life gets easier, self-medicating (the wrong way) is less likely. With proper intervention and treatment, patients don’t have to rely on alcohol or drugs to get relief. When substance abuse is removed from the equation, the person can follow a healthier lifestyle, improve personal relationships, and reach goals.
Getting Help for Attention-Deficit Disorder
Seeking help – such as from a skilled, caring psychiatrist – can help you stay focused and make positive choices in your life. Positive choices help reinforce healthy choices, and doors of opportunity open up. When a person has more choices, can do more, and is reaching out to others, depression and anxiety are less likely to take hold.
The reverse is also true. Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD can lead to a downward spiral of failed relationships, lost jobs, self-medicating with harmful substances, and depression.
This is why it is so important to seek out professional help, whether you are a worried parent with a child who is struggling, or whether you are an adult who “powered through” childhood but are now facing unaddressed depression or anxiety – which could be from untreated ADHD or other issues.
Psychiatrist in Connecticut
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues, contact Psy-Visions. We offer comprehensive, responsive care tailored to your individual needs.
Psychiatrist Dr. Mark Stracks provides customized treatment that addresses the underlying physical and emotional issues causing your symptoms. You will never feel embarrassed to see a psychiatrist, but rather empowered.
Call (203) 405-1745 today to schedule an appointment, or complete our online form to request a consultation with Dr. Stracks. Let us help you take back control of your life.
