ADHD vs. Anxiety in Kids: Why Proper Testing Matters
Does your child struggle to focus because of ADHD, or are they distracted by constant worry?
On the surface, ADHD and anxiety can look very similar. Both can lead to restlessness, trouble paying attention, and difficulties at school. But the causes, and therefore the solutions, are often very different.
At SoCal Child Psychology in La Jolla, we see many families across San Diego who wonder if their child has ADHD, anxiety, or both. The truth is that proper testing is essential. Without it, kids may receive the wrong treatment plan, leaving them (and their parents) even more frustrated.
Why ADHD and Anxiety Are Often Confused
Overlapping Symptoms
ADHD and anxiety share many common signs, including:
Difficulty concentrating in school
Trouble completing assignments
Restlessness or fidgeting
Irritability
Sleep struggles
To a parent, or even a teacher, it can be nearly impossible to tell which one is the driving factor.
How ADHD Shows Up
Children with ADHD may:
Seem easily distracted by outside noises or activities
Struggle with organization and time management
Act impulsively or interrupt frequently
Forget instructions even when they were listening
ADHD is linked to differences in how the brain processes attention and executive functioning.
How Anxiety Shows Up
Children with anxiety may:
Appear distracted because of constant worry
Avoid challenging tasks for fear of making mistakes
Overthink directions and freeze up during tests
Experience physical symptoms (stomachaches, headaches, muscle tension)
Anxiety is rooted in excessive worry, which can mimic the “inattention” of ADHD. If a child with anxiety is constantly worrying, they may appear distracted.
Why Both ADHD and Anxiety Can Be Present
One important detail: ADHD and anxiety often co-occur. A child with ADHD may develop anxiety because they constantly feel behind in school, or an anxious child may appear inattentive because worry distracts them.
Proper testing is the only way to understand the relationship between the two, and to ensure both are addressed.
Why Proper Testing Matters
If a child with ADHD is mistakenly treated for anxiety, or vice versa, they may not get the support they truly need.
It's important to remember that a child may also be experiencing both ADHD and anxiety, but a comprehensive evaluation can help to determine the challenges your child is experiencing.
Risks of Misdiagnosis
Missed treatment opportunities: A child with ADHD may not receive helpful interventions like organizational support, classroom accommodations, or medication if they’re only labeled “anxious.”
Increased frustration: When strategies don’t work, kids may start believing something is “wrong” with them.
School struggles: Teachers may implement the wrong support, leaving children behind academically.
How Psychological Testing Helps
A comprehensive psychological evaluation looks at multiple factors to clarify whether your child is experiencing ADHD, anxiety, or both. At SoCal Child Psychology, our testing process typically includes:
Parent and teacher interviews for a full picture of behavior across settings
Standardized rating scales for ADHD and anxiety symptoms
Cognitive testing to measure attention, memory, and processing skills
Emotional and behavioral assessment to identify underlying worry or stress
Testing results not only provide clarity but also create a roadmap for next steps, whether that’s therapy, school accommodations, or a medical consultation.
Support for Parents in San Diego
Once testing is complete, families often ask: What comes next?
If ADHD is diagnosed, therapy, school accommodations, parent coaching, and sometimes medication may be recommended.
If anxiety is diagnosed, therapy (like CBT), school supports, and family strategies can help.
If both are diagnosed, an integrated plan ensures each condition is addressed.
At SoCal Child Psychology, we don’t just give you a report, we guide you through what the results mean for your child’s daily life at school and at home.
Evaluations for Kids and Children with ADHD and Other Concerns
When your child is struggling with focus, behavior, or school performance, it can feel overwhelming to know what’s really going on. Our psychological evaluations at SoCal Child Psychology provide families across San Diego with answers and a roadmap for support.
From ADHD and learning differences to anxiety and other concerns, we use evidence-based assessments to identify your child’s unique needs. With this knowledge, you can advocate confidently at school and make informed choices about treatment. Reach out today to schedule a child ADHD evaluation in San Diego or La Jolla and give your family the clarity you deserve.
FAQs About ADHD vs. Anxiety Testing
Can teachers tell the difference between ADHD and anxiety?
Not always. Teachers can share valuable observations, but a full evaluation by a child psychologist is needed to clarify the root cause.
Does my child need both therapy and testing?
Therapy can be very helpful for both ADHD and anxiety, but testing provides the clarity needed to guide treatment and school accommodations.
Can ADHD and anxiety happen together?
Yes. Many children have both, which makes proper testing even more important.
How do I start the testing process?
Contact our office in La Jolla to schedule an intake. We’ll walk you through what testing looks like and how results can support your child in school and at home.
Final Thoughts: Clarity Leads to Confidence
When ADHD and anxiety overlap, guessing is not enough. Proper psychological testing gives you clear answers, helping your child get the right treatment and support at school.
If you’re in San Diego and wondering whether your child has ADHD, anxiety, or both, our team at SoCal Child Psychology is here to help. We offer psychological testing in La Jolla that goes beyond labels by helping families move forward with confidence.