On the surface, ADHD and trauma might not seem to have any major links. But, there is some overlap in behaviors and symptoms, and some research suggests that people with ADHD might experience more trauma throughout their lives as a result of the disorder — especially when it’s gone undiagnosed.
That might include a variety of negative career experiences, relationship issues, or other social problems related to ADHD that cause bigger mental health issues.
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the overlap between ADHD and trauma. That includes diving into some of the common symptoms that can appear in both, and making it easier for you to determine when you’re dealing with one or the other — or both!
What Is the Connection?
With the research that’s been done on both ADHD and trauma and how they might be connected, there are different ideas in terms of “which came first,” and it can be different for everyone. As suggested above, people with ADHD who go undiagnosed in childhood might be more susceptible to traumatic experiences throughout life. In that case, it can be suggested that ADHD contributes to the possibility of trauma symptoms.
People with ADHD might also experience things like bullying, and they are often more likely to engage in risky behaviors, or even substance abuse. These issues can be traumatic or lead to other experiences that can cause trauma.
Other research has suggested that people who experience trauma might be more likely to develop ADHD.
The relationship between childhood trauma and ADHD seems to have growing evidence. The way the brain changes because of abuse or neglect in childhood might end up triggering ADHD, since it’s a neurodevelopmental disorder. Therefore, it’s unlikely for someone who experiences trauma as an adult to develop ADHD because of it. But, a child who is still developing might have altered brain chemistry as a result of the trauma.
What Are the Symptoms?
Most people associate ADHD with common symptoms like distraction, lack of focus, and fidgeting. Trauma symptoms, on the other hand, often include flashbacks, nightmares, and dissociation.
However, there are some shared symptoms between the two conditions. People who have gone through trauma and those with ADHD might have low self-esteem. Other shared symptoms include disorganization, difficulty concentrating, angry outbursts, and difficulties with relationships, career, school, and more.
How to Get the Right Diagnosis
It’s not always easy to determine if you’re dealing with the symptoms of ADHD or trauma, especially if you don’t understand the possible connections.
The best thing you can do if you’re worried about either condition is to consider your history. How long have you been experiencing these symptoms? Did you go through anything traumatic as a child?
If you can’t remember or don’t have the answer to those questions, don’t put extra stress on yourself trying to figure it out. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your general practitioner and/or a mental health professional for the answers you need.
The good news is that ADHD can often be treated with a combination of medication and therapy. While you might benefit from anxiety medications if you deal with trauma, therapy is often the best way to manage your symptoms there, too. But, it’s important to get the right diagnosis, no matter which condition you’re dealing with — even if it’s both!
Don’t let either of these issues dictate the way you live your life from now on. If you’re reading this, you’ve undoubtedly been questioning this connection, or wondering what it is you’ve been struggling with. Feel free to contact me to set up an appointment, and we’ll work on getting you the answers you need.
Start ADD/ADHD Counseling in Scottsdale and Online in Arizona
We understand how difficult it can be to navigate life with ADHD. This is why we are happy to offer a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation with our ADHD/ADD therapist Anissa Hamilin. Our locations for are located throughout the valley with counseling centers located in Phoenix,and Scottsdale. You can start your therapy journey with Crossroads Counseling by following these simple steps:
- Contact Crossroads Counseling for a complimentary 20-minute phone consult
- Meet with a qualified ADHD/ADD therapist
- Start the process of learning how to live with ADHD
Feel free to learn more about our practice by visiting our about page, FAQ, and blog, or read more about our staff members to start finding your best therapeutic fit! or, call us at 623-680-3486, text 623-688-5115, or email info@crossroadsfcc.com for more information!
