The Link Between ADHD and Mood Swings

hyperactive disorder and attention deficit (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects children and adults. The most common features of this condition are hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, but people with ADHD can also experience mood swings for a variety of reasons.

This article looks at the link between ADHD and mood swings.

Symptoms

ADHD symptoms differ by person and age. The most common symptoms include hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity.

People with ADHD may also experience the following:

• Frequent forgetfulness
• Delay
• Trouble staying still
• quick to interrupt
• Lack of attention to detail.
• A pattern of making mistakes often.
• Daydreaming or the appearance of not listening
• Lack of concentration
• Avoidance of tasks that require mental concentration.

ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Symptoms and treatment depend on the specific individual and their diagnosis, which is usually done by a mental health professional or licensed health care provider.

Along with the general symptoms presented, for a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, there must also be an ongoing behavioral pattern of hyperactivity and/or inattention that interferes with or reduces the quality of social, academic, or work functioning.

What causes ADHD mood swings?

The mood swings associated with ADHD may be due to a few factors.

When people with ADHD have difficulty focusing and concentrating on a task, they can become frustrated and moody. When children are aware that they have a condition or feel different from other children, this can lead to low self-esteem and behavioral changes as a way of coping.

The medication that many people take for ADHD can also cause different reactions in people, including mood swings.

Additionally, studies show that ADHD patients are more prone to anxiety and depression, of which mood swings can be a symptom.

Coping

The first step in coping with mood swings is acknowledging that they exist. Talk to your health care provider, a trusted person in your life, or a support group to help you cope.

Also, understanding the triggers that bring on your mood swings, your behavior during mood swings, and why you have them are an important part of the coping process.

Reflecting, journaling, or pausing to collect yourself are helpful ways to deal with mood swings. Many times, responsibilities and tasks cause frustration, leading to additional stress, irritability, or complete closure.

Some strategies that can help with mood swings include the following:

• Work with a licensed mental health professional
• stress management techniques
• Organizational skills for home and work.
• Introspection and self-understanding
• Activities such as deep breathing or taking a walk.
• Switch to a different task

Summary

ADHD is a condition characterized by hyperactivity and inattention, but it can also cause mood swings. Fortunately, once identified, mood swings are manageable. A licensed mental health professional can help with mood swings through coping exercises. There are many resources available to help people with ADHD.

A word from Verywell

ADHD is a common condition that affects both children and adults. There are many treatment and support options available to help people with ADHD cope with the condition. It can be especially helpful to surround yourself with a supportive community of people who want to help you live and function well with ADHD.