Three Types of Anxiety in ADHD
Anxiety in ADHD can be: a direct consequence of unmanaged ADHD (worry about forgetting, failing, being found out); a co-occurring independent anxiety disorder; or what appears to be anxiety but is actually ADHD-driven emotional dysregulation or Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria. Each requires a different treatment emphasis.
Why Misdiagnosis Is So Common
ADHD and anxiety share surface symptoms — poor concentration, restlessness, irritability. In women particularly, ADHD is often diagnosed as anxiety first, leaving the ADHD untreated for years.
CBT Adapted for ADHD
Standard CBT for anxiety needs modification when ADHD is present. The difficulty initiating tasks, keeping homework, and sustaining focus must be directly addressed. Dr. Goyal integrates CBT with ADHD-specific strategies.
Want to talk to someone who understands?
Dr. Sneha Goyal provides specialist assessment and therapy for anxiety and ADHD at Enable Workplace Consulting, 156 Collins Street Melbourne CBD. Medicare rebates available.
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