ADHD and PTSD
- Liz and Kim Hoke and Clifford
- Jul 1
- 2 min read
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that occurs in early childhood, and has a strong genetic component. ADHD is considered an innate neurodivergence (a person is born with it). ADHD impacts the parts of the brain that regulates emotions, attention, and focus.
PTSD results from a traumatic event. PTSD is considered a form of acquired neurodivergence (situational rather than genetic). Experiencing trauma does not always lead to PTSD. 50-60% of people experience trauma in their lifetime, and 5-10% will develop PTSD. C-PTSD (Complex-PTSD) is persistent exposure to trauma, usually during childhood.
Links between PTSD and ADHD
People with ADHD are at higher risk for exposure to traumatic experiences
Some studies show that early childhood trauma exposure may trigger ADHD if genetically predisposed.
Studies have found that 30% of people with PTSD had symptoms of ADHD in childhood, compared to 11% of adults without PTSD.
Questions to Ask Yourself
When did your symptoms start? Were they present since childhood, or triggered by a traumatic event?
Do you have trouble with being easily distracted? Is this constant across multiple settings or is it linked to trauma reminders or hypervigilance?
Are your mood swings due to frustration with tasks, or are they triggered by trauma memories, or feelings of fear/guilt/shame?
Treatment
ADHD is usually treated with stimulant or non-stimulant medications and executive functioning support (e.g., EF coaching, DBT).
PTSD is typically treated with Trauma focused psychotherapy and sometimes medication like SSRIs.
Resources for more information on ADHD and PTSD:
CHADD: ADHD, PTSD, or Both?
Neurodivergent Insights: ADHD and PTSD
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAIMI): Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
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