Seeking help for ADHD, anxiety, or depression

If you or your child are dealing with symptoms of ADHD, depression, and/or anxiety, it's important to seek professional help.

A doctor or mental health professional may suggest one or more of the following treatment options.

Therapy

Talking therapies (psychotherapy) like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other forms of therapy are often utilised as part of a comprehensive plan for managing ADHD, depression, and anxiety.

Therapy for ADHD focuses on improving focus and boosting self-esteem.

Therapy for depression aims to identify and replace negative thoughts and behaviours, which can also help with ADHD symptoms.

Research shows that adults with ADHD who go through regular therapy are less likely to get stuck in negative thinking and are better at handling depressive episodes.¹

Treatment

There are lots of treatment options that can help with symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, mood swings, low motivation, and other symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, and depression.

Medical professionals may consider some of the options below to help manage symptoms:

• Stimulants are often prescribed for ADHD. They increase brain chemicals linked to focus and attention. However, these treatments may worsen anxiety symptoms.
• Non-stimulants increase norepinephrine levels in the brain, which may help with focus and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
• Certain antidepressants may also be used to try and help alleviate ADHD symptoms.

Treatment may be challenging and needs to be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Doctors sometimes recommend a combination of treatments to manage symptoms. Some target a specific condition, while others can treat both ADHD and depression.

Lifestyle changes

Healthy habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep can support your mental health and help manage symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, and depression.

But these changes won’t work for everyone or solve all problems. They should be part of a broader treatment plan, and it’s best to make them with support from a healthcare professional.

To improve your mental health, try to focus on the basics:

• Eat healthy, balanced meals and avoid ultra processed foods. These can affect your blood sugar levels and mood, making you feel low or tired.
• Engage in regular physical activity (aerobic exercise is especially beneficial for ADHD) to improve your mood and to reduce stress.
• Practice good sleep hygiene by doing things like:
  • keeping your bedroom cool and comfy,
  • flipping your mattress for a more comfortable sleep,
  • dimming the lights in the evening,
  • sticking to a consistent sleep schedule,
  • avoiding alcohol and nicotine close to bedtime, and:
  • skipping naps during the day.
• Prevent boredom, especially for ADHD, as it can make symptoms worse.
  • Try creating an "interest shelf" or box filled with things like books, crafts, puzzles, or other activities that can help you stay engaged and stop you from getting bored.