Has your child been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by a doctor? Have you noticed that your child is often sad, frustrated, and uninterested in things? While some parents may think that this is just part of their child’s ADHD, there may actually be a connection between the two. ADHD and depression are two of the most common mental health conditions in children. Today, we’ll talk about the connection between the two, how to recognize it, and what you can do as a parent.
What is the relationship between ADHD and depression?
Studies have found that a child with ADHD is about ten times more likely to develop depression than a normal child. There could be several reasons for this.
Simply put, living with ADHD is a big challenge for a child. They often have to face problems due to ADHD symptoms.
- Schoolwork: They may feel disappointed with themselves when they can't focus on lessons, forget homework , or get low grades on exams.
- Problems with friends: Because children with ADHD have difficulty controlling their behavior (impulsive behavior), they may often have problems with friends. When friends ostracize them, it is common for them to feel lonely and sad.
- Problems at home: When they fail to meet the expectations of their parents and teachers, they may develop feelings like "I'm useless" and "I can't do anything right."
When these things continue to happen, the child's heart becomes filled with feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Over time, this condition can develop into a major depression , rather than just sadness.
Some studies suggest that there may be common genetic factors that influence both ADHD and depression. This means that it is neither the child's fault nor the parents' fault.
How do you know if a child with ADHD also has depression?
This is where it gets a little tricky. Because some of the symptoms of ADHD and some of the symptoms of depression can be similar. For example, trouble concentrating and agitation can be seen in both conditions.
However, if you notice these changes in your child's behavior, be concerned. Especially if the child is constantly sad, depressed, or talks about harming themselves, be sure to refer the child to a mental health specialist.
The table below lists some common symptoms that can be seen in a major depression.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Persistent sadness | Feeling sad, frustrated, or empty all day long. |
| Loss of interest in things you previously enjoyed | Not wanting to do things you used to enjoy, like playing, talking to friends, or watching TV. |
| Low self-esteem | Having negative thoughts about oneself, such as "I'm useless", "I'm ugly", "No one likes me". |
| Feeling tired all the time | Feeling very tired and lifeless in the body even without doing any work. |
| Changes in diet | Sudden loss of appetite or overeating. This can lead to weight loss or weight gain. |
| Sleep problems | Inability to sleep at night or sleeping too much. |
| Physical complaints | Constantly complaining of physical pains for no apparent reason, such as headaches and stomachaches. |
| Suicidal thoughts | Saying or implying things like "I'd rather be dead" or "There's no point in living." This is a very serious symptom. |
For a doctor to diagnose a child with depression, the first two symptoms (sadness and loss of interest) and at least three of the other symptoms must be present for two weeks.
How can these two conditions be treated together?
Research is still ongoing into the best treatment for a child with both ADHD and depression, but doctors typically use a combination of treatments .
Medication
Stimulants are the most commonly used medications for ADHD. Antidepressants are used for depression. Studies have shown that using both types of medications together is safe. But this is all up to your doctor to decide.
The most important thing is to talk to your doctor about the medications your child is taking, their side effects, and what to watch out for. If you notice any new changes in your child's behavior or worsening symptoms, let your doctor know right away.
Sometimes the side effects of ADHD medications can be similar to symptoms of depression, so it's important to be aware of this as well.
| Side effects of ADHD medications | Similarities to symptoms of depression |
|---|---|
| Headache or stomach ache | Depression can also cause physical pain for no apparent reason. |
| Loss of appetite and weight loss | Depression also causes changes in eating patterns and weight. |
| Difficulty falling asleep | Sleep problems are also common in depression. |
Therapy
Just as important as medication, or even more important, is therapeutic treatment.
- Talk Therapy: This can be very helpful for the child to understand their emotions, manage them, and learn how to deal with problems.
- Family Counseling: This is a great help for parents to understand their child's situation and learn how to support the child as a family.
Are children with ADHD and depression at risk of suicide?
This is a difficult topic to talk about, but it's definitely something to be aware of. Yes, children with ADHD are at a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts than other children. This risk is especially high among girls.
Depression is a major cause of this. Also, due to the impulsivity of children with ADHD, they may be tempted to act without thinking when they feel sad or frustrated. They are also at greater risk of resorting to drug and alcohol abuse. These things can make the situation worse.
If your child is talking, writing, or hinting at suicide, never take it lightly. Don't dismiss it as "attention seeking." Seek medical advice immediately. If necessary, take them to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU).
Take-Home Message
- ADHD and depression are two common conditions that can occur together in children.
- Pay attention to changes in your child's behavior, especially sadness, frustration, and loss of interest.
- Because the symptoms can be similar, be sure to seek the help of a qualified doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
- Both medication and therapy are very important for treatment. All of this should be done under medical advice.
- Be aware of the side effects of the medications your child is taking. If you notice any changes, tell your doctor immediately.
- If your child talks about suicidal thoughts, take it very seriously and seek professional help immediately.
- As a parent, your love, understanding, and support are the greatest strength your child will have to overcome this challenge.
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