Does your child struggle with concentration, restlessness, poor school performance, big emotional reactions, or trouble sleeping? If so, you may have seen firsthand how challenging these symptoms can be, not just for the child, but for the entire family. It’s not uncommon for parents, caregivers, or teachers to wonder whether these behaviors point to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
What many people may not realize is that these same symptoms can also be signs of anxiety. In fact, anxiety and ADHD share several overlapping traits, which can make it difficult to determine what’s really going on. Understanding anxiety vs. ADHD in kids is an important first step toward getting support and creating a treatment plan that truly supports your child’s needs.
Understanding anxiety vs. ADHD in kids
At a glance, anxiety and ADHD can look very similar in children. Both may involve difficulty concentrating, restlessness, irritability, and challenges at school. However, the reasons behind these behaviors can be very different.
Children with ADHD tend to experience inattention, hyperactivity, or both. Their brains may naturally struggle with focus, organization, and impulse control. This means distractibility and poor concentration are usually present across multiple settings, such as at school, at home, and during activities they enjoy.
Children with anxiety, on the other hand, may appear inattentive because their minds are preoccupied with worry. Anxious thoughts, fears, phobias, or “what if” scenarios can make it hard to stay focused in the moment. In these situations, concentration can fluctuate depending on how anxious the child feels. For example, a child may focus well at home but struggle significantly at school.
There are also emotional and behavioral differences. Kids with ADHD may act more impulsively, make quick decisions, and appear fearless or unaware of consequences. Children with anxiety are more likely to be cautious, avoid situations they find scary, and express fear or distress about upcoming events. Physical symptoms, such as stomachaches, headaches, or trouble sleeping, are also common with anxiety.
How do I know if my child has anxiety or ADHD?
Since anxiety vs. ADHD in kids can be difficult to tell apart, professional assessment is important. A licensed mental health professional can evaluate your child’s symptoms, developmental history, emotional patterns, and behavior across settings. This may include interviews with parents, feedback from teachers, standardized questionnaires or assessments, and direct conversations with your child.
The goal isn’t just to name an anxiety or ADHD diagnosis; it’s also to understand why your child is struggling and what kind of support will help them to thrive. Trying to self-diagnose, or assuming symptoms are “just a phase,” can delay effective treatment. An informed evaluation ensures your child receives care that’s effective and compassionate.
Can a child have both anxiety and ADHD?
Yes, many children experience both conditions at the same time. Studies have found that approximately one-fourth of children with ADHD also have an anxiety disorder.
Living with untreated ADHD can sometimes increase anxiety, especially if a child frequently feels overwhelmed, criticized, or unsuccessful at school. Likewise, chronic anxiety can make ADHD symptoms more noticeable.
When both anxiety and ADHD are present, treatment approaches should address both. A thoughtful, individualized therapy plan can help children manage attention challenges while also learning tools to cope with worry, fear, and stress.
Therapy for anxiety and ADHD
Therapy can be incredibly effective for helping children cope and manage symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, or both. Treatment plans are tailored to the child’s specific needs, strengths, and developmental level.
For anxiety, therapy may be focused on helping children understand their emotions, challenge anxious thoughts, and gradually face feared situations in a supportive way. For ADHD, therapy may emphasize skill-building around organization, emotional regulation, impulse control, and attention strategies. Parent involvement is also common, as caregivers play a vital role in reinforcing progress at home.
Whether therapy is in-person or online, working with a licensed therapist can help ensure your child receives evidence-based care in a safe, encouraging environment.
Takeaway
When it comes to anxiety vs. ADHD in kids, overlapping symptoms can make it confusing. Understanding the differences, seeking a professional assessment, and exploring local therapy options can make a meaningful difference in your child’s well-being.
You and your child deserve support. Our network of therapists take a thoughtful, informed approach to diagnosis and treatment, helping families find answers and a clear path forward. With convenient in-person and online therapy options, taking the first step toward support with findmytherapist.com is simple.