When a child can’t focus, parents often hear one word: ADHD. But what if that distractibility isn’t a focus disorder at all? In this episode, I break down anxiety vs adhd and why these two are so often confused. I want you to understand what’s really happening in your child’s brain so you can stop guessing and start helping.
Anxiety can hijack attention. When a child is stuck in worried, looping thoughts, their brain isn’t available for learning. That can look exactly like ADHD. Zoning out. Missing instructions. Not finishing work. It’s not laziness or defiance. It’s dysregulation.
️ “When your mind is stuck in worried thoughts, you can’t be present for the task in front of you.” — Dr. Roseann
How can anxiety look like ADHD in kids?
Anxiety pulls attention inward. A worried brain is busy scanning for danger, not listening to directions. That looks like inattention.
Parents often notice:
- Missed instructions
- Slow or unfinished work
- Daydreaming that’s really worrying
A parent once told me, “My child looks unfocused, but at home they’re constantly overthinking.” That’s a big clue.
What’s the difference between anxiety vs adhd?
ADHD is neurodevelopmental. Anxiety is fear-based. ADHD shows up early and includes ongoing executive function challenges. Anxiety is persistent worry that lasts at least six months.
Key differences I see:
- ADHD: disorganization, impulsivity, time blindness
- Anxiety: perfectionism, overworking, fear of mistakes
Both can hyperfocus. Both can struggle with tasks. That’s why observation alone isn’t enough.
Can a child have both anxiety and ADHD?
Yes—and it’s common. ADHD often creates anxiety over time. Constant reminders, corrections, and unfinished work stress the nervous system.
When we calm the brain first, kids often surprise us with what they can do. Regulation changes everything.
When your child is dysregulated, it’s easy to feel helpless. The Regulation Rescue Kit gives you the scripts and strategies you need to stay grounded and in control. Become a Dysregulation Insider VIP at www.drroseann.com/newsletter and get your free kit today.
How do you know what’s really going on?
I rely on QEEG brain mapping because it removes the guesswork. It shows:
- Overactive brain communication linked to anxiety
- Under- or over-working areas tied to focus issues
When we know the pattern, we can choose the right supports. That might include neurofeedback, magnesium for calming, therapy, or parent coaching. There is no one-size-fits-all—and that’s okay.
Takeaway & What’s Next
Understanding anxiety vs adhd helps you stop blaming behavior and start supporting the brain. If this resonates, listen next to the episode on ADHD and Anxiety to go deeper. You’re not missing something—your child just needs regulation first.
FAQs
Can anxiety cause attention problems in school?
Yes. A worried brain can’t focus, follow directions, or process information well.
How early can ADHD symptoms appear?
ADHD symptoms show up before age 12 and are consistent across settings.
Should I treat anxiety or ADHD first?
Always start by calming the nervous system. Regulation makes every strategy work better.
Not sure where to start? Take the guesswork out of helping your child.
Use our free Solution Matcher to get a personalized plan based on your child’s unique needs. Start here: www.drroseann.com/help
