- Can a child have both ADHD and the generalized anxiety disorder?
QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller,
Can a child have both ADHD and the generalized anxiety disorder?
Can stimulants such as Concerta and Adderall make Generalized Anxiety Disorder worse? Can a child have ADHD and GAD at the same time?
ANSWER:
The answer to both questions is yes. They are both primarily genetic “disorders.”
Stimulants tend to make the GAD worse. When methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, etc.) and Adderall cause increased anxiety symptoms both disorders are likely present. Treating with BuSpar and then with the stimulant can control both problems.
