A very real risk associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is the development of the mood disorder depression. Many times, depression results from the daily challenges associated with ADHD. When you have ADHD, you can experience problems with hyperactivity, impulsivity and lack of attention, reports the MayoClinic.com. Depression can cause feelings of worthlessness, sadness, hopelessness, inability to find pleasure in activities you previously enjoyed, changes in sleep and appetite and possible suicide. Experiencing both ADHD and depression together can result in even more complications and risks.
Step 1
Increase your knowledge concerning the complications associated with ADHD and depression such as academic problems, trouble with the law, problems at work, substance abuse, frequent accidents, unstable relationships, conflicts, social isolation and possible suicide, notes the MayoClinic.com. Understand that the repeated patterns of failure and frustrations associated with ADHD can induce or worsen depression. When you understand the possible complications, you will be better able to prepare for, and deal with, them.
Step 2
Make an effort to live a healthy lifestyle. Both ADHD and depression are made worse by poor sleep, lack of physical activity and improper diets. Get daily exercise to improve your mood and reduce your hyperactivity and inattention. Exercise will allow you to work off excess energy associated with ADHD. Ensure that you obtain good sleep on a daily basis. According to HelpGuide.org, proper amounts of sleep can help you obtain emotional balance, attention and increase productivity. Make sleep a routine, avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening, begin preparing for bed an hour before you intend to fall asleep and avoid exercising close to bedtime.
Step 3
Establish routines. Lack of motivation is a complication of depression. Poor organization and an inability to meet your goals can occur with ADHD. Thus, it is important to develop structure and routines to counteract these symptoms. Schedule your day and your week. Follow the schedule and stay on task. Increase your awareness by watching the clock and noting how long it takes you to complete something. If you feel yourself getting off task, or your feel unmotivated to follow your routines, establish personal consequences.
Step 4
Seek treatment. According to the MayoClinic.com, treatments that combine both therapy and medication seem to be the most effective for both ADHD and depression. Ask your doctor for a referral to a mental health professional. Discuss possible treatment plans with both your doctor and therapist. Decide on the use of medication. While in treatment, make sure you attend sessions and stick to your medication unless changes are made by your doctor. Focus on increasing your attention and reducing your hyperactivity. Make note of your successes and reward yourself for them.
