What are the potential interactions between depression and ADHD?

What will be an ideal response?

As many as 20% to 30% of young people with ADHD experience depression (Daviss, 2008; Spencer et al., 2000), and even more will develop depression or another mood disorder by early adulthood (Fischer et al., 2002). Being diagnosed with ADHD between 4 and 6 years of age is a risk factor for future depression and suicidal behavior in adolescence, particularly for girls (Chronis-Tuscano, Molina, et al., 2010). These youths feel so sad, hopeless, and overwhelmed that they are unable to cope with everyday life. Depression lowers self-esteem; reduces interest or pleasure in favorite activities; increases irritability; and disrupts sleep, appetite, and the ability to think (Mick, Santangelo et al., 2000). Youths with ADHD have higher rates of suicidal ideation and deliberate self-harm than controls, although the highest risk for suicide is among those with ADHD with co-occurring depression and conduct problems (Pliszka, 2014). The association between ADHD and depression may be a function of the fact that family risk for one disorder increases the risk for the other. This suggests that depression in a child with ADHD is not due solely to the child's demoralization as a result of their ADHD symptoms