ADHD and Anxiety

Abstract

The comorbidity rates of ADHD and anxiety disorders in children and adolescents have been estimated up to 33.5%. There are important overlapping and differentiating symptoms among ADHD and different anxiety disorders that are tabulated in this chapter. The effect of the stimulant medications on comorbid anxiety in ADHD patients has been a challenging aspect in the current literature and this chapter explains why. Some helpful instruments and rating scales are listed to assist clinicians in identifying different anxiety disorders. The chapter describes the evidence around the management approaches for children and adolescents with comorbid ADHD and anxiety disorders and suggests a unique approach in the treatment of these disorders.