ADHD and mental health

It’s possible to live with ADHD and experience poor mental health at the same time. Having one does not cancel out or explain away the other.

ADHD can affect focus, emotions, and daily functioning, while mental health conditions impact wellbeing in different ways, and both need to be taken seriously.

Seeking support for your mental health is important, regardless of whether you have an ADHD diagnosis or you are waiting for one. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not failure. The right support can make a meaningful difference in understanding yourself, managing challenges, and improving the overall quality of your life.

Impact on mental health

ADHD can directly or indirectly contribute to several mental health challenges:

Anxiety disorders

Constantly worrying about mistakes, missed deadlines, or being perceived as “lazy” can lead to chronic anxiety. Many adults develop anxiety as a secondary response to ADHD-related struggles.

Depression

Repeated experiences of failure, low self-esteem, and social difficulties can trigger depressive symptoms. Adults with ADHD are 2–3x more likely to have major depression.

Emotional dysregulation

People with ADHD often experience intense emotions — frustration, rejection sensitivity, anger, or sadness — that can feel overwhelming or sudden.

Substance use

Some adults self-medicate with alcohol, caffeine, or other substances to cope with restlessness, boredom, or low motivation.

Relationship strain

Forgetfulness, impulsivity, or distractibility can cause misunderstandings or conflict in relationships, adding to emotional stress.

Looking after your mental health

To get the most out of ADHD treatment your mental health needs to be stable.

Things that can help:

  • Structured routines: Use visual planners, phone reminders, or apps
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity (even brisk walking) improves focus and reduces anxiety/depression symptoms
  • Mindfulness or meditation: ADHD brains often race - grounding practices (short breathing exercises, yoga, mindfulness apps) can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed
  • Sleep and nutrition: Sleep deprivation intensifies ADHD symptoms, you should aim for consistent bedtimes and balanced meals to stabilise energy and mood
  • Accountability partners: A friend, partner, or coach who checks in weekly can boost consistency and motivation

Mental health crisis support

ADHD is not an urgent mental health need, you should be stable before seeking support.

If you already have mental health services involved, you should contact your care coordinator or the service supporting you directly.

 

Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option

  • Free, confidential, and available 24/7
  • Text: 0748 063 5199 (the service will aim to get back to you within four hours)
  • Provided by LPT for Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland

Neighbourhood Mental Health Cafés

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