ADHD & Depression

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) & depression are two conditions that can ofter occur together.  Having ADHD puts you at a 4x risk of having depression.  The reason being is the chronic frustration & disappointment individuals with ADHD have.  Individuals with ADHD have symptoms like troubles with school, work, relationships, and just the demands of everyday life which often can lead to having low self-esteem.

ADHD & depression are normally treated by medications, psychotherapies, or a combination of the two.  Cognitive-behavioral therapy(CBT) has proven most effective against depression.  The goal of CBT is to help the patient identify & reduce negative thoughts.  Antidepressants that aim to boost the levels of serotonin & norepinephrine are the normal treatment for severe depression.  Most antidepressants work very well with ADHD medications & the depression improves with the first antidepressant is tried.  Minor medication or lifestyle adjustments may need to be made & can make a big difference.  "Exercise has a profound effect on the mood level of people with ADHD," says Dr. William Dodson, a Denver-based psychiatrist.