Understanding Overlapping Symptoms: Why Testing, Diagnosis, and Treatment Still Matter
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) rarely exists in isolation. Many individuals with ADHD experience co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Overlapping symptoms can sometimes make it challenging to identify the root cause of difficulties in daily life. However, just because symptoms seem to blend together does not mean proper diagnosis and treatment should be overlooked. In fact, comprehensive testing is more important than ever for effective care.
Why Do Symptoms Overlap?
The brain is complex, and many mental health conditions share common traits. For example, both ADHD and anxiety can lead to difficulty focusing. Depression and ADHD can both contribute to low motivation. Sensory sensitivities seen in ASD may also be present in individuals with ADHD. Without thorough testing, it's easy to misattribute symptoms to the wrong condition or miss an important underlying issue.
A study published in The Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that up to 40% of individuals with ADHD also have an anxiety disorder, and nearly 30% experience depression (Pliszka, 2015). These statistics highlight why a nuanced approach to diagnosis is critical. Treating one condition while ignoring another can result in incomplete relief or worsening symptoms.
The Importance of Comprehensive Testing
Even if symptoms seem obvious, a detailed evaluation by a professional can clarify the full picture. Professional testing and assessments help distinguish between overlapping conditions and guide personalized treatment plans. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that ADHD should not be diagnosed based on symptoms alone but through comprehensive evaluations, including input from parents, teachers, and clinicians (Wolraich et al., 2019).
Accurate diagnosis matters because treatment approaches can vary widely. A child with ADHD and anxiety may need a different medication or therapy strategy than a child with ADHD alone. Similarly, an adult struggling with focus due to untreated depression will not benefit from stimulant medication alone.
Taking the Next Step
If you or your child are struggling with focus, impulsivity, or emotional regulation, don't dismiss the importance of proper testing. Even when symptoms overlap, a careful diagnosis leads to more effective treatment and better outcomes. Our clinic specializes in comprehensive evaluations to ensure you receive the right care tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and take the first step toward clarity and effective treatment.
References:
Pliszka, S. R. (2015). Comorbidity of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with psychiatric disorder: An overview. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 44(5), 406
414.
Wolraich, M. L., et al. (2019). Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 144(4), e20192528.
Daylight savings time (DST) is a widely practiced time adjustment aimed at maximizing daylight hours. However, the biannual shift can have significant implications for mental health, particularly for individuals receiving mental health care. The disruption to circadian rhythms, sleep patterns, and overall well-being necessitates that mental health professionals and patients alike prepare for the potential psychological effects. Circadian Rhythms and Sleep Disruptions One of the most immediate effects of DST is its disruption to circadian rhythms the internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles. The sudden shift, even if only by an hour, can lead to sleep deprivation, increased fatigue, and mood instability. Research has shown that sleep disturbances are directly linked to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation (Harrison, 2013). Mental health care providers often see an uptick in symptoms among individuals with pre-existing conditions following the transition. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Mood Changes The fall transition into standard time results in shorter daylight hours, exacerbating symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs cyclically with seasonal changes. The abrupt reduction in natural light exposure can lead to increased lethargy, decreased motivation, and mood imbalances. A study by Wehr et al. (2001) found that individuals affected by SAD are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of DST. For patients prone to seasonal depression, mental health practitioners often recommend light therapy, adjusted medication schedules, and structured daily routines to mitigate these effects. Impacts on Mental Health Treatment Mental health care providers may also notice changes in patient engagement and treatment effectiveness during the DST transition. Sleep disruptions can decrease cognitive function, making it harder for patients to engage in therapy, retain information, and adhere to treatment plans. Additionally, the loss of daylight hours in the evening can reduce opportunities for outdoor activities, social interactions, and exercise factors crucial for maintaining mental well-being. Strategies for Mitigation To counteract the negative effects of DST, mental health professionals suggest several strategies:  Gradually adjusting sleep schedules a few days before the time change Prioritizing natural light exposure during daylight hours Maintaining consistent routines to support emotional stability Encouraging patients to track their mood and symptoms for early intervention As research continues to highlight the mental health impacts of DST, mental health professionals must take proactive steps to support their patients through these transitions. References Harrison, Y. (2013). 'The impact of sleep loss on cognitive performance and mood.' Sleep Medicine Clinics, 8(4), 517-527. Wehr, T. A., Sack, D. A., & Rosenthal, N. E. (2001). 'Seasonality and affective disorders.' Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 24(2), 275-292.
As the new year begins, many of us create resolutions to improve our physical health, career, or relationships. However, mental health an essential aspect of overall well-being is often overlooked. This year, consider setting goals that prioritize your mental health. By doing so, you'll not only enhance your emotional well-being but also build resilience to face life's challenges. Why Mental Health Goals Matter Mental health is the foundation of our ability to think, feel, and connect with others. Research shows that prioritizing mental well-being reduces stress, improves relationships, and boosts productivity (American Psychological Association, 2022). Establishing specific, actionable resolutions can empower you to manage anxiety, depression, or simply enhance your day-to-day emotional balance. Goals to Boost Your Mental Health in 2025 Practice Mindfulness Daily Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation or deep breathing into your routine. Mindfulness has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety while improving focus and emotional regulation (Kabat-Zinn, 1990). Even 5-10 minutes a day can make a significant difference. Stay Active Exercise isn't just for physical health; it's a natural mood booster. Activities like walking, yoga, or dancing release endorphins, the body's 'feel-good' chemicals. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. Connect with Loved Ones Social support is a key factor in maintaining mental health. Schedule time to talk with friends or family, even if it's just a quick call. Building meaningful connections can help combat loneliness and promote emotional resilience. Set Boundaries Protect your mental health by saying no to commitments that overwhelm you. This allows time to recharge and focus on what truly matters. Seek Professional Support If you're struggling, consider working with a therapist. Regular sessions can help you process emotions, develop coping strategies, and set achievable mental health goals. Tracking Your Progress Write your goals down and review them regularly. Celebrate small victories, and remember, progress not perfection is the key. Final Thoughts As we step into 2025, let's prioritize mental health alongside traditional resolutions. By doing so, you'll create a year filled with growth, balance, and emotional well-being. After all, the best version of yourself starts with a healthy mind.
The holiday season is a time of year that often evokes images of family gatherings, festive decorations, and joyful celebrations. However, for many individuals, it can also bring about stress, anxiety, or feelings of loneliness. Embrace the impact the holidays can have on your mental health and focus on the positive aspects of this season while acknowledging the unique challenges. The Positive Impact of the Holidays on Mental Health The holidays present unique opportunities for connection, gratitude, and reflection, all of which can boost mental well-being: Strengthening Relationships: Gathering with loved ones can provide a sense of belonging and emotional support. Even a simple phone call to a family member or friend can help strengthen bonds and combat feelings of isolation. Practicing Gratitude: The holidays often encourage gratitude through traditions like gift-giving or reflecting on the past year. Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can increase overall happiness and improve mental health. Acts of Kindness: The spirit of giving during the holidays can boost both the giver's and the receiver's mood. Volunteering, donating to charity, or simply helping a neighbor can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Creating Joyful Memories: Engaging in holiday traditions, whether it's decorating, baking, or singing carols, can create lasting positive memories that uplift the spirit. Tips for Managing Holiday Stress While the holidays can be joyful, they also come with stressors like financial pressures, time constraints, and high expectations. Here are some tips to navigate the season healthily: Set Realistic Expectations: Focus on what truly matters to you and let go of the pressure to create a perfect holiday experience. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise, even amidst holiday festivities. Taking time for yourself is essential. Stay Connected: Reach out to friends and family, especially if you're feeling lonely. Building connections can help alleviate holiday blues. Seek Support if Needed: If the season feels overwhelming, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Therapy or counseling can provide valuable tools to cope and thrive. Embrace the season's positives, take care of your mental health, and remember that seeking help is a sign of strength.
As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us gather around the table to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives. While this tradition is deeply rooted in our culture, science increasingly shows that practicing gratitude not just on Thanksgiving but year-round can have profound benefits for our mental health. Gratitude is more than a fleeting feeling of thankfulness. It's a mindset and practice that shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have. Research has revealed that cultivating gratitude can significantly improve psychological well-being. A study published in Personality and Individual Differences found that individuals who regularly expressed gratitude experienced higher levels of happiness and lower levels of depression and stress (Wood, Joseph, & Maltby, 2008). By actively acknowledging the positives in our lives, we can foster resilience against life's challenges. The mental health benefits of gratitude extend beyond mood enhancement. Practicing gratitude has been linked to better physical health, including improved sleep quality and reduced symptoms of illness. A study conducted by the University of California, Davis, found that participants who kept a weekly gratitude journal reported fewer physical ailments and exercised more frequently than those who did not engage in gratitude practices (Emmons & McCullough, 2003). This connection underscores the mind-body link and highlights how mental well-being can positively influence physical health. Incorporating gratitude into your daily routine doesn't require grand gestures. Simple acts like keeping a gratitude journal, writing thank-you notes, or reflecting on three things you're grateful for each day can make a difference. Over time, these practices can rewire the brain to focus on positivity, reducing the impact of negative thoughts and emotions. Thanksgiving offers a perfect opportunity to kickstart or deepen your gratitude practice. As you share a meal with loved ones, consider going around the table and expressing what you're thankful for this year. By making gratitude a regular part of your life, you're not only celebrating the holiday's true spirit but also investing in your long-term mental health. This Thanksgiving, let gratitude take center stage. It's a gift you can give yourself that keeps giving long after the turkey is gone.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us gather around the table to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives. While this tradition is deeply rooted in our culture, science increasingly shows that practicing gratitude not just on Thanksgiving but year-round can have profound benefits for our mental health. Gratitude is more than a fleeting feeling of thankfulness. It's a mindset and practice that shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have. Research has revealed that cultivating gratitude can significantly improve psychological well-being. A study published in Personality and Individual Differences found that individuals who regularly expressed gratitude experienced higher levels of happiness and lower levels of depression and stress (Wood, Joseph, & Maltby, 2008). By actively acknowledging the positives in our lives, we can foster resilience against life's challenges. The mental health benefits of gratitude extend beyond mood enhancement. Practicing gratitude has been linked to better physical health, including improved sleep quality and reduced symptoms of illness. A study conducted by the University of California, Davis, found that participants who kept a weekly gratitude journal reported fewer physical ailments and exercised more frequently than those who did not engage in gratitude practices (Emmons & McCullough, 2003). This connection underscores the mind-body link and highlights how mental well-being can positively influence physical health. Incorporating gratitude into your daily routine doesn't require grand gestures. Simple acts like keeping a gratitude journal, writing thank-you notes, or reflecting on three things you're grateful for each day can make a difference. Over time, these practices can rewire the brain to focus on positivity, reducing the impact of negative thoughts and emotions. Thanksgiving offers a perfect opportunity to kickstart or deepen your gratitude practice. As you share a meal with loved ones, consider going around the table and expressing what you're thankful for this year. By making gratitude a regular part of your life, you're not only celebrating the holiday's true spirit but also investing in your long-term mental health. This Thanksgiving, let gratitude take center stage. It's a gift you can give yourself that keeps giving long after the turkey is gone.
October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the importance of mental health care and the powerful role screenings play in identifying conditions like depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Many people may struggle with their mental health without realizing it, but early detection through screening can be a crucial first step toward getting the help they need. The Importance of Mental Health Screenings Mental health screenings are simple assessments designed to help individuals identify symptoms of conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. These screenings are often the first step in diagnosis and can be taken online or through a healthcare provider. Various tools are widely available, including: PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9): A commonly used screening tool for depression, the PHQ-9 asks nine questions that assess the severity of depressive symptoms over the past two weeks. It is often used by clinicians and available online for self-assessment. GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7): This screening tool focuses on symptoms of anxiety, asking seven questions about experiences like worry, nervousness, and restlessness. MDQ (Mood Disorder Questionnaire): The MDQ helps identify potential signs of bipolar disorder by screening for periods of elevated mood or irritability. PTSD Checklist (PCL-5): This screening tool is used to assess symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, asking individuals to reflect on their experiences related to trauma. MHA (Mental Health America) Online Screening Tools: Mental Health America offers free, confidential screening tools online for conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. These screenings provide immediate feedback and suggest next steps. Just as regular physical check-ups are essential for maintaining physical health, mental health screenings offer a valuable opportunity to assess your emotional well-being and catch early warning signs of mental health issues. Left untreated, conditions like depression and anxiety can worsen over time, but early detection opens the door to treatment and recovery. Early Detection Can Save Lives Mental health conditions can manifest gradually, and their symptoms might be mistaken for regular stress or fatigue. Screenings help pinpoint these symptoms early, allowing individuals to seek support before the condition escalates. Whether you choose an in-person assessment with a healthcare provider or a confidential online tool, taking a mental health screening can be an empowering step toward better emotional health. Reducing Stigma One of the biggest obstacles to mental health care is stigma, which often prevents people from seeking help. National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month is a reminder that mental health should be treated as seriously as physical health. There's no shame in getting screened for depression, anxiety, or other conditions help is available, and it starts with taking that first step.
September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and encourage meaningful conversations about mental health. Please help support individuals and families by helping to identify the warning signs of suicide and providing the care needed to prevent such tragedies. Suicide does not occur without warning. There are often signs, but they can be subtle or easily misunderstood. Being aware of these warning signs is crucial in recognizing when someone may be at risk and in need of support. Common Warning Signs of Suicide Talk of Death or Self-HarmIndividuals at risk may frequently speak about death, dying, or suicide. This could include phrases like 'I wish I were dead' or 'People would be better off without me.' Even indirect comments like, I just can't take it anymore, should not be taken lightly. Withdrawal from Loved Ones Isolation is a common sign. When a person begins distancing themselves from friends, family, and social activities, it may be a signal of emotional distress. This withdrawal can be physical, such as avoiding gatherings, or emotional, where they become uncommunicative or detached. Changes in Behavior or Mood Sudden, drastic changes in mood such as extreme sadness, irritability, or apathy can indicate deeper emotional issues. Similarly, behaviors like reckless driving, substance abuse, or giving away personal belongings might indicate that someone is contemplating suicide. Increased Feelings of Hopelessness When someone expresses feeling trapped, without purpose, or believes that their situation will never improve, it can indicate a risk for suicide. Pay close attention to expressions of hopelessness or helplessness, as these are strong indicators of suicidal thoughts. Loss of Interest in Life A sharp decline in interest in things the person once enjoyed, such as hobbies, work, or relationships, can be a sign. This, along with a noticeable decline in self-care or personal appearance, is a red flag. How You Can Help If you notice these signs in someone, don t hesitate to reach out. Ask them how they are feeling and encourage them to seek professional help. By raising awareness and fostering open dialogue, we can save lives. If you or someone you know is struggling contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for immediate support.
ADHD News Meridian Advanced Psychiatry (MAP) has strived to provide specialized medical services in Idaho in particular, addressing the increasing demand for ADHD diagnosis and management. Recognizing a growing need for comprehensive ADHD services supported by effective diagnostic tools, Chief Executive Officer Kyle Ronnau and Chief Business Development Officer Kevin Hulsey set out to improve the clinic's capabilities. The challenge: Ensuring quality ADHD care across sites ADHD diagnosis often relies heavily on subjective measures like patient self-reports and questionnaires, which when combined with bias from both the patient and clinician, can lead to inaccuracies in diagnosis and treatment plans. The primary challenge across MAP clinics was the limitations of the ADHD diagnostic tool they were considering using at the time, which fell short in offering comprehensive insights into patient symptoms. It only provided binary "yes" or "no" answers without any clinical context, which stopped clinicians from interpreting and understanding their patient's conditions thoroughly. With many patients attributing a lot of their issues to ADHD before a formal diagnosis, it's becoming increasingly important for clinicians to be able to get unbiased data into their performance. Kyle commented: They've come up with a conclusion that they have ADHD and then their brain fills in the gap. When you ask questions, like on an ASRS, their brains are quickly saying if I say yes, it's supportive of any ADHD diagnosis, if I say no, it's not. Then they believe it, so I don't think you're getting honest answers out of them, but not on purpose. Kyle noticed the amount of time his clinicians spent sifting through patients lived experiences to assess their condition, prompting the search for a better solution which gave clinicians confidence in their clinical decision making QbTest. Solution: Integrating QbTest across Meridian Advanced Psychiatry clinics MAP adopted QbTest to not only objectively measure attention, impulsivity, and activity to get a deeper understanding of its patient's symptoms beyond a simple binary result that alternative tools offered, but to reduce wait times and increase diagnostic confidence in their clinicians. Integrating QbTest into MAP's diagnostic process involved several steps: Training and familiarization: Clinicians went through comprehensive training to understand the functionality of QbTest and how to interpret the results. Process integration: QbTest was seamlessly integrated into the clinic's diagnostic workflow across different sites, making sure that it bolstered existing practices and improved the overall diagnostic accuracy. Continuous evaluation: The clinic continuously monitored the effectiveness of QbTest, gathering feedback from clinicians and patients. Outcome: Efficient ADHD pathways across multiple sites Adopting QbTest into MAP's clinics resulted in a marked improvement in its ability to diagnose and manage ADHD. The tool's comprehensive data allowed clinicians to: Make informed clinical decisions Objective results that support clinical interviews provide a deeper understanding of each patient's condition, leading to more accurate diagnoses. It has reduced the reliance on potentially biased patient self-reports. Currently, MAP doesn't diagnose or treat patients for ADHD without carrying out a QbTest assessment to corroborate their clinical decisions. Kyle said: At Meridian Advanced Psychiatry, it's our usual practice for all patients to undergo QbTest as part of their comprehensive ADHD treatment plan. Consistency across clinics By implementing QbTest across all MAP clinics, the organization has standardized its ADHD diagnostic process. This consistency ensures that all patients receive the same high level of care regardless of which clinic they visit as well as demonstrates the impact their service has on symptom change and improvement. Facilitated further expansion with more clinics QbTest has helped with MAP expanding with further clinics as policy, procedure, and provider training is consistent across the board. It has also felt confident in moving forward with the acquisition of an additional nearby clinic which was already using our tool. Kevin commented: The decision to acquire the ADD Clinic of Idaho was made much easier when we realized they were also using QbTest in their service. This gave us confidence that we were partnering with a group of providers seeking a higher standard of care. Attracts patients seeking a robust ADHD evaluation process QbTest has now become integral to MAP's business model, influencing its standard operating procedures, clinic design, and patient care processes. Each new clinic is designed with a dedicated QbTest room, highlighting its importance in the overall patient experience. It has found that by offering QbTest, it is differentiated from other providers, attracting patients seeking reliable and objective ADHD diagnostics. Kevin said: QbTest has become an integral part to all our providers at MAP. So much so that when we design new clinics and locations, we are designing a QbTest specific rooms to optimize the environment for test taking. Increased efficiency The cost-effectiveness and reliability of QbTest has allowed the clinic to serve more patients without compromising on diagnostic quality. MAP can see patients within a few days if they aren't limited by specific providers or locations, which could have patients otherwise waiting up to only two weeks. Treatment is happening at a quicker rate and becoming an important part of its business development process. Patient engagement and trust Patients often come to MAP clinics with a preconceived belief that they have ADHD. QbTest helps to either validate or refute these beliefs objectively, building trust in the diagnosis and treatment plan. Insurance and cost management While not all insurance providers cover the QbTest, MAP emphasizes the significance of objective, computerized testing for all patients seeking ADHD treatment. This commitment highlights the essential role of the QbTest in delivering high-quality patient care. Kyle said: QbTest is essential to our providers and we strive to eliminate any obstacles to taking it. To achieve this, we offer QbTest at most of our locations, provide convenient testing times, minimize the need for physical office visits, and are mindful of financial constraints. While most insurances will reimburse for the test, for those that don't, we work closely with our patients to ensure that financial constraints don't limit access to this important test. Our goal is to make the test both accessible and affordable for everyone. Speak to one of our experts to learn how our ADHD tests can transform your ADHD services
