Is It ADHD or Anxiety? How to Tell the Difference
Feeling distracted, restless, and overwhelmed can point to many different things. Two of the most common possibilities are Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and anxiety disorders. They can share several symptoms, which sometimes makes it hard to know which one you are experiencing, or if both are present at the same time. Understanding the differences can help you take the next step toward getting the right support.
How ADHD and Anxiety Overlap
ADHD and anxiety can both affect focus, energy levels, and how you handle daily tasks. People with either condition may:
Struggle to concentrate
Feel restless or keyed up
Have trouble finishing projects
Experience forgetfulness or mental fatigue
This overlap can make it easy to confuse one for the other, and in some cases, a person may have both.
Signs More Common in ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that begins in childhood, though symptoms may change over time. Adults with ADHD often describe lifelong patterns of difficulty with attention, organization, and impulse control.
Possible signs include:
Trouble starting or completing tasks, even when they are important
Frequent procrastination or getting sidetracked
Impulsivity, such as speaking without thinking or making quick decisions without weighing consequences
Chronic disorganization and difficulty managing time
Forgetting appointments, deadlines, or daily responsibilities
Signs More Common in Anxiety
Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry or fear that is hard to control. While anxiety can make it difficult to focus, the underlying problem is usually the mind being occupied by worries, not a lack of attention skills.
Possible signs include:
Persistent “what if” thinking and worst-case scenario fears
Physical symptoms such as muscle tension, racing heart, or stomach discomfort
Avoiding situations that trigger worry
Sleep problems linked to rumination or worry
Difficulty relaxing, even in safe situations
When ADHD and Anxiety Occur Together
It is possible to have both ADHD and an anxiety disorder. In fact, untreated ADHD can sometimes contribute to anxiety because of repeated struggles at work, school, or in relationships. Similarly, chronic anxiety can make ADHD symptoms more noticeable by draining mental energy.
How Therapy Can Help
At TriPeak Behavioral Health, we begin with a thorough assessment to understand your unique history and symptoms. We then create a treatment plan that may include:
Skill-building for ADHD, such as time management, organization strategies, and focus techniques
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety, helping you identify and change unhelpful thought patterns
Mindfulness practices to improve attention and reduce stress
Support in building routines that work for your lifestyle
By addressing the right condition, or both when needed, you can feel more in control and more capable in your daily life.
ADHD and Anxiety Support in Albuquerque
We specialize in working with adults and teens in Albuquerque and across New Mexico to clarify symptoms, create effective strategies, and improve daily functioning. Whether your challenges come from ADHD, anxiety, or both, we can help you find clarity and tools to thrive.
You do not have to keep guessing about what is going on. Complete our online form to send us a message, or call us to schedule an appointment today.