BacktoSchool Anxiety vs. ADHD: A Parent’s Guide (Miami Edition)

Signs That Point More Toward ADHD

• Ongoing distractibility since early childhood, in more than one setting (home and school).
• Difficulty starting tasks even when calm, forgetfulness, losing items, poor time sense.
• Hyperactivity or impulsivity (fidgety, blurting, risktaking) beyond peers.

Signs That Point More Toward Anxiety

• Worry tied to specific situations (new teacher, friends, performance).
• Physical symptoms: tummy aches, headaches, shakiness before school.
• “Allornothing” thinking (“If I get one B, I’ve failed”).

When It’s Both

Kids can avoid homework because it’s hard to focus (ADHD) and because it feels overwhelming (anxiety). Treatment often blends skills, school supports, and sometimes medication.

What You Can Try This Week

• Twocolumn plan: Label tasks “Mustdo” vs. “Nicetodo.” Start with a 10minute timer.
• Body first: Sleep 9–11 hours (elementary), 8–10 (teens). Breakfast with protein + complex carbs.
• Worry box ritual: Set a 5minute “worry time” after school; write it down, then close the box.
• Teacher note: Ask for one small accommodation (e.g., chunked directions, seating, movement breaks).

When to Consider Testing or Treatment

• Struggles across subjects for >6 months, or teacher feedback suggests attention concerns.
• School avoidance, panic, or persistent somatic complaints.
• You want a clear plan for accommodations (504/IEP).

We can help: Our team provides attention and learning testing, therapy for anxiety and school stress, and medication consults when appropriate.

Schedule a parent consult → Therapy & Counseling | Ask about attention testing → Neuropsych & Psych Testing

La ansiedad y el TDAH pueden lucir parecidos. Si la distracción ocurre en todos los entornos y desde la niñez, podría ser TDAH. Si aparece sobre todo ante situaciones estresantes, quizá sea ansiedad. Hacemos evaluaciones y tratamiento para ambos.

Disclaimer: This article is for education only and isn’t medical advice. If you’re worried about your child’s safety, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.