Understanding the Differences and Similarities Between ADHD and Anxiety

In the 11th episode of Love ADHD, Tony Overbay, LMFT, and Julie Lee are joined by a special guest, Mackey Overbay, a licensed cosmetologist and host of “The Mind, The Mirror and Me” podcast, to talk about the differences and the similarities between ADHD and anxiety. They also share personal experiences, debating if conditions like sleep, focus, bowel problems, or muscle tension relate more to ADHD or anxiety. The discussion underscores the importance of understanding one's symptoms and getting a proper diagnosis, especially as ADHD symptoms can often be misdiagnosed as anxiety, particularly in adult women. The chart Tony, Mackie, and Julie read from can be found here https://neurodivergentinsights.com/misdiagnosis-monday/adhdvsanxiety

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00:00 Introduction and Welcoming the Special Guest

01:22 Understanding Anxiety vs ADHD

01:50 Misdiagnosis of ADHD and Anxiety

02:42 The Role of Anxiety in ADHD

05:41 The Impact of Anxiety and ADHD on Studying

06:19 Comparing Personal Experiences with Anxiety and ADHD

15:22 Understanding the Overlap between Anxiety and ADHD

18:49 Exploring the Role of GABA in Anxiety and ADHD

20:44 Understanding Sleep Issues and Low GABA Levels

21:13 Impact of ADHD Medication

21:32 Exploring the Connection Between ADHD and Memory

22:22 The Role of Fight or Flight Response in ADHD

22:53 The Effect of Narcissistic Relationships on Memory

23:19 Understanding Intrusive Thoughts in ADHD and Anxiety

24:58 The Role of Sympathetic Nervous System in ADHD and Anxiety

25:06 Exploring the Connection Between ADHD, Anxiety and GI Issues

26:11 Understanding Restlessness and Muscle Tension in ADHD and Anxiety

28:14 The Role of Medication in Managing ADHD and Anxiety

33:58 The Impact of ADHD and Anxiety on Impulsivity

34:14 Understanding the Differences Between ADHD and Anxiety

34:55 Concluding Thoughts on ADHD and Anxiety