It is not uncommon for people with ADHD to have a co-occurring anxiety condition, including social anxiety.
Social anxiety is characterized by an intense fear of social situations.
Learning the differences between the two conditions is important in the management and treatment of both.
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Still, others believe that ADHD symptoms, themselves, contribute to anxiety.
Fearing further rejection, many withdraw into themselves,avoiding any social settingthat they find threatening.
Overlapping Symptoms
On the surface, SAD and ADHD can sometimes look alike.
As a result, SAD often goes undiagnosed in those who also have ADHD.
To be diagnosed, children and adults must exhibit symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity for six months or longer.
Such symptoms must also not be the result of another mental disorder or medical condition.
The goal of CBT is to provide techniques and practice for managing anxiety so that those with SAD.
In other types of CBT, you’ve got the option to learn and practicesocial skillsandrelaxation techniques.
Such strategies may also offer relief from feelings of social anxiety.
One way to deal with this is to consider joining anonline support group.
This will allow you to gradually practice interacting with others in an online format.
Over time, you may find that attending in-person support meetings can also be helpful.
Characteristics of ADHD may also make it more likely for people to feel anxious in social situations.
It’s OK to feel overwhelmed.
2013
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms and diagnosis of ADHD.
American Psychiatric Association (APA).Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
5th ed, text revision.
Washington, D.C.; 2022.
2009;26(3):212-221. doi:10.1002/da.20549
