Depression in Children with ADHD

Most people are familiar with the common challenges that come with ADHD. Difficulties with attention, impulsivity, hyperactivity. These are the symptoms that often come to mind when we talk about ADHD in children and teenagers. But what’s talked about far less often is how ADHD can increase the risk of other mental health struggles, especially depression.

On average, around 11% of children and adolescents with ADHD also experience depression.

A study published last week in The Journal of Attention Disorders has shone new light on this important issue. Researchers reviewed data from 24 different studies involving over 20,000 young people with ADHD. Their findings make it clear: depression is far more common in children and teenagers with ADHD than many people realise. The results showed that, on average, around 11% of children and adolescents with ADHD also experience depression.

This is a significant figure, especially when compared to young people without ADHD. It means that roughly one in ten children or teens with ADHD is also coping with depression. And in some situations, that number may be even higher.

The study also found that girls with ADHD were more likely to experience depression than boys. This reflects what we already know about depression being more common among teenage girls in general. But for girls with ADHD, the risk appears to be even greater.

The connection between ADHD and depression is complex. ADHD can lead to all sorts of difficulties, from problems at school to struggles with friendships and low self-esteem. These experiences can, over time, increase the risk of a young person developing depression. Some of the symptoms also overlap. For example, it can be hard to tell whether a child’s difficulty concentrating is part of their ADHD, a sign of depression, or both.

It’s also worth noting that while ADHD often shows up early in childhood, depression tends to appear later, particularly during a child's teenage years. This means that parents, teachers and health professionals need to stay alert to changes in mood and behaviour as children with ADHD grow older.

We’ve known for some time that young people with ADHD are at higher risk of developing depression, but this latest research highlights just how common that risk is. Other studies have suggested that children with ADHD are around two to four times more likely to develop depression than their peers, with a greater risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts as well. This is why early identification and support is so important.

If you are a parent of a child or teen with ADHD, it’s important to be aware of the signs of depression, especially as they move into adolescence. These can include persistent sadness, changes in sleep or appetite, loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy, or expressions of hopelessness. If you notice these signs, it’s always worth seeking professional support.

When it comes to treatment, every child is different. Some young people might need therapy to help them manage their mood, while others may benefit from a combination of therapy and medication. The key is ensuring that both ADHD and depression are recognised and supported in a way that works for the individual.

What this latest research shows is that depression is not an uncommon comorbidity of ADHD. It’s something we need to be actively looking for and talking about. By increasing awareness and ensuring young people with ADHD get the right support, we can help reduce the emotional burden they face and give them the best possible chance at life.