Does Adderall Help with Anxiety? What You Need to Know

Adderall is not FDA-approved for treating anxiety and may worsen anxiety symptoms in some individuals, particularly those without ADHD. While some individuals with ADHD might feel less anxious when their attention symptoms improve, Adderall is only approved for ADHD and narcolepsy, not anxiety disorders. If you’re struggling with anxiety, safer and more effective FDA-approved treatments are available [1].

This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions about your mental health treatment.

If you’ve been wondering whether Adderall might help with your anxiety, you’re not alone. Many people have heard that this ADHD medication can make some feel calmer, leading to questions relative to its potential for anxiety relief. But the reality is more nuanced, and complex. 

What Is Adderall and What Does It Do?

Approved Uses and Mechanisms of Actions

Adderall is a prescription medication containing mixed amphetamine salts. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Adderall for only two conditions: ADHD and narcolepsy [2]. It works by affecting your central nervous system (CNS), specifically increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a key role in attention, motivation, alertness, and mood regulation.

In people with ADHD, Adderall enhances activity in brain areas responsible for executive function, the set of mental skills that help with planning, focus, and self-control.

For people with ADHD, this helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control. The medication essentially enhances activity in brain regions responsible for executive functioning, the mental skills that help you plan, focus, and manage tasks.

Why It’s Prescribed and for Whom

Healthcare providers may prescribe Adderall to:

• Children and adults with a clinical diagnosis of ADHD

Important note: Adderall is not considered a first-line treatment for anxiety, depression, or other psychiatric conditions outside of ADHD and narcolepsy.

Can Adderall Help with Anxiety?

Why Some Think It Might Help

Improved focus and organization can reduce the stress that comes from struggling with daily tasks. When people with ADHD get proper treatment, they often feel less overwhelmed by life’s demands.

Enhanced executive function means better ability to manage emotions and cope with stressors. This can create a sense of calm for those whose anxiety stemmed from untreated ADHD symptoms.

Reduced daily struggles from better attention and organization can break the cycle of chronic stress and worry that some people experience.

The Scientific Consensus

Here’s what the research actually shows: There is extremely limited evidence supporting Adderall for anxiety treatment, and it’s not considered safe or effective for this purpose [3].

Only one small controlled study examined using Adderall for anxiety. This 2010 study looked at 32 adults who had both ADHD and anxiety, finding some benefit when Adderall was used alongside existing anxiety medications like SSRIs or SNRIs [4]. However, this benefit appeared to come from treating ADHD symptoms rather than directly addressing anxiety.

A meta-analysis of stimulant treatments found that while some people with ADHD experienced reduced anxiety when their attention symptoms improved, this doesn’t translate to anxiety treatment for people without ADHD [5].

Side Effects and Risks

Symptoms That Mimic or Worsen Anxiety

Here’s a critical concern: Adderall can actually trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms through its effects on your central nervous system [6].

Common side effects that can feel like anxiety include:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Nervousness and restlessness
• Rapid breathing or feeling short of breath
• Sweating and tremors
• Sleep disturbances and insomnia
• Headaches and irritability

These physical effects may resemble or trigger anxiety-like symptoms in sensitive individuals, especially those with underlying anxiety disorders.

Dependence, Withdrawal, and Crash Effects

Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has high potential for abuse and dependence [7]. When people stop taking it, withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Severe anxiety and depression
• Intense cravings for the medication
• Extreme fatigue and sleep problems
• Mood swings and irritability

These withdrawal effects can last for weeks to months, potentially creating long term anxiety problems even after stopping the medication.

ADHD and Anxiety: A Complicated Relationship

Overlapping Symptoms

ADHD and anxiety disorders share many symptoms, which can make diagnosis tricky:

ADHD Symptoms	Anxiety Symptoms	Shared Symptoms
Inattention across all situations	Worry-driven concentration problems	Difficulty concentrating
Hyperactivity/restlessness	Physical tension from worry	Restlessness and fidgeting
Impulsive decision-making	Avoidance of feared situations	Task avoidance
Emotional dysregulation	Emotional reactivity to stressors	Irritability and mood swings
Executive dysfunction	Difficulty with decision-making	Problems with organization

The key difference: In anxiety disorders, concentration problems are usually situation-specific and triggered by worry. In ADHD, attention difficulties happen across all areas of life.

Co-Occurring Conditions and Treatment Challenges

Research shows that 25-50% of people with ADHD also have anxiety disorders [8]. This high overlap creates treatment challenges:

• Stimulant medications for ADHD can worsen anxiety symptoms
• Anxiety medications might not address underlying ADHD symptoms
• Both conditions need proper treatment for optimal outcomes
• Careful evaluation is needed to determine which condition is primary

Safer Treatment Options for Anxiety

CBT and Therapy-Based Approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is considered the gold standard for anxiety treatment [9]. Research shows CBT is highly effective, with:

• Moderate to large effect sizes in treating anxiety disorders
• Response rates significantly higher than placebo treatments
• Long-lasting benefits that persist after treatment ends
• Ability to be combined with medication for enhanced effectiveness

CBT helps individuals identify and change thought and behavior patterns that fuel anxiety. It is considered one of the most effective and durable treatments, especially when combined with medication if clinically appropriate.

Non-Stimulant and FDA-Approved Alternatives

For anxiety disorders, FDA-approved first-line treatments include SSRIs and SNRIs:

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) [10]:

• Sertraline (Zoloft)
• Escitalopram (Lexapro)
• Paroxetine (Paxil)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)

SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors):

• Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
• Venlafaxine XR (Effexor)

These medications work by gradually increasing levels of neurotransmitters in your brain that help regulate mood and anxiety.

For people with both ADHD and anxiety, non-stimulant ADHD medications might be preferred [11]:

• Atomoxetine (Strattera): A non-stimulant that may help manage ADHD symptoms with a lower likelihood of exacerbating anxiety
• Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay): Alpha-2 agonists that can have calming effects

Managing Anxiety If You’re Prescribed Adderall

When to Talk to Your Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:

• New or worsening anxiety symptoms after starting Adderall
• Panic attacks or severe nervousness
• Significant increases in heart rate or blood pressure
• Sleep problems affecting your daily life
• Any concerns about how the medication is affecting you

Lifestyle Tips and Support Strategies

If you’re taking Adderall for ADHD but experiencing anxiety, these evidence-based strategies can help [12]:

Practice mindfulness: Techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help manage both ADHD and anxiety symptoms.

Consider therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness can be particularly helpful for managing anxiety while taking ADHD medication.

Maintain good sleep hygiene: Consistent sleep schedules are crucial, as stimulants can interfere with sleep. Getting sunlight exposure first thing in the morning can help in regulating circadian rhythm, which can support anxiety and ADHD [13]. 

Eat a balanced, nutrient dense diet. A growing body of research demonstrates the connection between nutrition and mental health, including anxiety and ADHD. Studies highlight that nutrition can have a mediating effect on the gut microbiome, helping to improve symptoms associated with these conditions. This underscores the central role nutrition and the gut have in mental health [14]. 

Exercise regularly: Moderate physical activity has strong research support for reducing anxiety symptoms. Forest bathing or immersing oneself in nature also has been shown to exhibit reductions in anxiety and improve ADHD [15]; [16].

Limit caffeine: Additional stimulants can worsen anxiety symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Adderall cause anxiety attacks?

Yes, Adderall can trigger anxiety attacks through its stimulant effects on your central nervous system [17]. The medication increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can feel very similar to panic symptoms. People who are sensitive to stimulants or have underlying anxiety disorders are at higher risk.

Why do some people feel calmer on Adderall?

This calming effect typically occurs in people with ADHD whose anxiety was actually caused by untreated attention problems [18]. When their ADHD symptoms improve, they feel less overwhelmed and stressed by daily tasks. However, this doesn’t mean Adderall treats anxiety directly, it’s addressing the underlying ADHD that was contributing to anxious feelings.

Should you take Adderall if you have both ADHD and anxiety?

Diagnosis and treatment planning should always be done by a licensed healthcare provider who can evaluate symptom history, co-occurring conditions, and potential medication risks. [15]. Your doctor will need to:

• Determine which condition is causing more impairment
• Consider non-stimulant alternatives for ADHD treatment
• Potentially treat both conditions with different medications
• Monitor you closely for any worsening anxiety symptoms

Treatment decisions should always be individualized and based on your specific symptoms, medical history, and treatment response.

The Bottom Line

Adderall is not an appropriate treatment for anxiety disorders. While some people with ADHD might feel less anxious when their attention symptoms improve, this medication can actually worsen anxiety in many individuals. The stimulant effects on the central nervous system may increase heart rate, disrupt sleep, or exacerbate anxiety in some individuals—particularly those with preexisting anxiety disorders.

If you’re struggling with anxiety, proven treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy and FDA-approved medications offer safer, more effective options. For those dealing with both ADHD and anxiety, working with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan is essential. 

Remember: your mental health deserves evidence-based care. Don’t let curiosity about off-label uses delay getting the proper treatment you need.

Ready to explore safe, expert-led treatment options? Book an appointment with PsychPlus today to discuss personalized care that addresses your specific needs.

References

[1] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). FDA requires updates to clarify labeling of prescription stimulants used to treat ADHD and other conditions. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-requires-updates-clarify-labeling-prescription-stimulants-used-treat-adhd-and-other-conditions

[2] Patel P, Marwaha R, Molla M. Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine. [Updated 2025 Apr 6]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507808/

[3] Cortese, S., Adamo, N., Del Giovane, C., et al. (2018). Comparative efficacy and tolerability of medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, adolescents, and adults: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet Psychiatry, 5(9), 727-738. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(18)30269-4/fulltext

[4] Gabriel A. (2010). The mixed amphetamine salt extended release (Adderall XR, Max-XR) as an adjunctive to SSRIS or SNRIS in the treatment of adult ADHD patients with comorbid partially responsive generalized anxiety: an open-label study. Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders, 2(2), 87–92. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12402-010-0025-z

[5] Coughlin, C. G., Cohen, S. C., Mulqueen, J. M., Ferracioli-Oda, E., Stuckelman, Z. D., & Bloch, M. H. (2015). Meta-Analysis: Reduced Risk of Anxiety with Psychostimulant Treatment in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Journal of child and adolescent psychopharmacology, 25(8), 611–617. https://doi.org/10.1089/cap.2015.0075

[6] Lakhan, S. E., & Kirchgessner, A. (2012). Prescription stimulants in individuals with and without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: Misuse, cognitive impact, and adverse effects. Brain and Behavior, 2(5), 661-677.https://doi.org/10.1002/brb3.78

[7] U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug & Chemical Evaluation Section. Scheduling Actions, Controlled Substances, Regulated Chemicals. https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/orangebook/orangebook.pdf

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[10] Slee, A., Nazareth, I., Bondaronek, P., et al. (2019). Pharmacological treatments for generalised anxiety disorder: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet, 393(10173), 768-777. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(18)31793-8/abstract

[11] Hirota, T., Schwartz, S., & Correll, C. U. (2014). Alpha-2 agonists for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in youth: A systematic review and meta-analysis of monotherapy and add-on trials to stimulants. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 53(2), 153-173. https://www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-8567(13)00818-6/abstract

[12] Sarris, J., Moylan, S., Camfield, D. A., et al. (2012). Complementary medicine, exercise, meditation, diet, and lifestyle modification for anxiety disorders: A review of current evidence. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012, 809653. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/809653

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[16]Siah CJR, Goh YS, Lee J, Poon SN, Ow Yong JQY, Tam WW. The effects of forest bathing on psychological well-being: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Ment Health Nurs. 2023 Aug;32(4):1038-1054. doi: 10.1111/inm.13131. Epub 2023 Mar 2. PMID: 36864583. https://doi.org/10.1111/inm.13131

[17] Faraone, S. V., & Glatt, S. J. (2010). A comparison of the efficacy of medications for adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder using meta-analysis of effect sizes. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 71(6), 754-763. https://www.psychiatrist.com/jcp/comparison-efficacy-medications-adult-attention-deficit-hyperactivity/

[18] Modesto-Lowe, V., Chaplin, M., Soovajian, V., & Meyer, A. (2013). Are motivation deficits underestimated in patients with ADHD? A review of the literature. Postgraduate Medicine, 125(4), 47-52. https://doi.org/10.3810/pgm.2013.07.2682