ADHD and Depression

Abstract

Depression occurs in youths with ADHD at a significantly higher rate than in youths without ADHD. Youths with ADHD and depression together have a more severe course of psychopathology and a higher risk of long-term impairment and suicide than youths with either disorder alone. ADHD and depression are highly impairing disorders, however the comorbidity of both conditions results in even greater levels of psychosocial impairment. This chapter describes the prevalence and morbidity of ADHD and Major Depressive disorders and provides information on the relationship between ADHD and suicide in addition to ADHD medications and suicide. The chapter describes several approaches to diagnosis and management of patients with comorbid ADHD and depression.