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Depression, like anxiety and many other things, is something that can occur along with ADHD. In fact, scientists have found a link between depression and ADHD, as well as between creativity and ADHD.
Depression can happen at any time - even in childhood - and most often happens for no apparent reason. That is, there is no obvious sign, like a death or divorce, that precipitates it.
Some signs of depression include:
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Sadness
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Irritability
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Changes in weight, eating or sleeping habits
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Feeling hopeless or guilty, often without reason
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Lack of focus, inability to make a decision
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Low or no energy
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Reduced activity level or increased restlessness
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At it’s most extreme - thoughts of suicide
If you think that you or someone you love might be depressed, whether or not they have Attention Deficit Disorder, you need to see a doctor right away. Depression is extremely difficult to treat without medication. In addition, you might want to consider adding therapy to the treatment plan; it can make a huge difference.
Winter can be an especially bad time of year for people with depression, mainly because of decreased amounts of sunlight.
Even with treatment, you can expect to have some difficult days. When that happens, there are some things you can try that might help. The biggest challenge is often finding the motivation to actually get up and do them.
Here are some ideas:
- Exercise can help make a bad day better, especially outdoors.
- Forcing yourself to get out of the house and around people can help.
- Depression sometimes has elements of anxiety as well. A cup of herbal tea, like chamomile, can make things easier.
- Keeping a journal and recording your thoughts and feelings can be helpful.
- While it can be hard to come up with an idea when you’re feeling bad, doing something you enjoy can help lighten things up.
- Practicing extreme self-care - a bubble bath, a massage, etc - can make you feel better.
- Finally, remember that this will pass. Usually these bad days last no more than 24 hours and then they’re gone. Hang on and it will get better.
Depression seems to be more common among women, especially those of us with ADHD. I know. I’m one of them. I hope this helps.
