Hyperfocus or Hypomania? How to Tell the Difference between ADHD and Bipolar Disorder

Both ADHD and bipolar disorder share a few symptoms: hyperactivity, difficulty thinking, and disorganization. With these overlapping symptoms, how can do you tell which disorder you have?

Here at Next Step 4 ADHD, our team of multidisciplinary experts excels at diagnosing mental health conditions and co-occurring disorders.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the differences between hyperfocus and hypomania and how to tell the differences.

How Often Do ADHD and Bipolar Disorder Occur Together?

According to Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), more than 66% of individuals with ADHD also have another disorder. OCD, bipolar, anxiety, and depression often co-occur with ADHD. To complicate matters, many of these conditions share overlapping symptoms.

You can learn more about comorbidities here.

So, how do you tell the difference between mania and hyperfocus?

Learn more in this video:

What Is Hyperfocus?

It’s a common misconception that people with ADHD can’t focus on anything. In fact, ADHD is an interest-based condition, and it’s possible to focus a lot on the things that interest you.

Hyperfocus is common among individuals with ADHD. It’s an intense highly focused attention, in which you concentrate so hard on something that you lose track the time, your surroundings, and everything else around you.

What is Mania?

Like hyperfocus, mania can cause you to lose track of your surroundings. A manic episode is characterized by euphoria, increased activity, and decreased need for sleep.

However, unlike hyperfocus, mania can also cause you to feel jumpy and agitated. People can also experience illusions of grandeur, the need to participate in risky behavior, and “a flight of ideas.”

Manic episodes are common in individuals who have bipolar disorder, and they are usually alternated with periods of bipolar depression. Hypomania is very similar to mania, but it’s a less intense version.

Treating Bipolar and ADHD

Bipolar and ADHD are treated differently, so it’s important to know which condition you have. That’s why the first step is always a comprehensive evaluation and an accurate diagnosis.

ADHD is often treated with:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Therapy
• Medication, such as stimulants and non-stimulants

Bipolar disorder is often treated with:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Therapy
• Medication such as mood stabilizers

If you’re struggling with either hyperfocus or manic episodes, we can help. With the right treatment, you can thrive! Call us at 502-907-5908  or request your appointment here.