ADHD versus Bipolar: What Are the Differences?

Life can be hard enough in children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Unfortunately, comorbidities can make matters even more challenging, whether trying to succeed at school or work. Bipolar disorder is more likely to occur in children and adults with ADHD by several fold. What is bipolar disorder, how is it diagnosed, and how does it change ADHD treatment plans?

Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating manic and depressive phases. Depressive phases of bipolar disorder are characterized by feelings of hopelessness and loss of interest in activities. Meanwhile, restlessness, impulsivity, defiant behavior, and inattention are often experienced during manic episodes. While ADHD and bipolar disorder can often coexist (up to 70% of those with bipolar also have ADHD), the two disorders can also be confused with one another since the symptoms of both manic and depressive episodes often overlap with ADHD symptoms.

ADHD is a developmental disorder that affects attention and ability to prioritize tasks and schedules. Those with ADHD often experience inattention, restlessness, insomnia, and quick loss of interest in actives that use to bring joy and excitement. Bipolar disorder, on the other hand, is a mood disorder even though it could mimic signs of ADHD. The key difference is ADHD is constant and more situationally dependent. Whenever a task demands self-regulation or executive control, an individual with ADHD will struggle.  Bipolar, conversely, is less situational and constant. Depressive and manic phases of bipolar come and go as they please, with very little dependent on context and environment. 

Another difference in the manic symptoms of bipolar and the racing thoughts of ADHD is discussed on ADDITUDE.com, “People with ADHD report racing thoughts, which they can grasp and appreciate but can’t necessarily express or record quickly enough. With mania, the patient’s racing thoughts flash by like a flock of birds overtaking them so fast that their color and type is impossible to discern.” It may take a professional to discern the subtle differences. At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates, we have many experts here to help make an accurate diagnosis. 

While it is possible to differentiate between bipolar disorder and ADHD, it is also possible that they can occur at same time. The overlap happens quite often. However, too often one of the two is misdiagnosed or masked by the other. It is important to make an accurate assessment because the treatment depends on it. For instance, stimulants are effective treatments for ADHD, but may exacerbate manic episodes of bipolar. The accuracy of treatment is also important because the outcomes depend on it. For instance, those with bipolar disorder are up to fifteen times more likely to attempt suicide. 

If you or loved one is experiencing symptoms of ADHD and/ or bipolar disorder, please contact Pathways today! We can help you make sense of your symptoms and get you on the right track with our seasoned professionals.