ADHD and Schizophrenia: Understanding the Link and Dual Diagnosis Challenges

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder that can impact behaviors. Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that can also negatively impact a person’s cognitive functioning. The estimated prevalence of ADHD is 5.9%–7.1% in children and adolescents and 2.5%–5% in adults, while the prevalence of schizophrenia is lower.1  Schizophrenia affects approximately 24 million people or 1 in 300 people (0.32%) worldwide.2

While the two disorders are very different in diagnosis, manifestation and many of the physical symptoms, there are similarities in some physical psychotic symptoms, and there can be a co-occurrence between the two disorders. In some cases of adolescent ADHD, people may be at a higher risk of schizophrenia later in life, with a number of additional environmental factors at play. Though there are not any controlled epidemiological studies measuring comorbid ADHD and schizophrenia, some evidence suggests that children and adolescents with ADHD and their family members  (due to the genetic factors) are more likely to develop psychotic disorders.3

People with schizophrenia, particularly those with impairments and psychotic disorders, often need the help of clinicians and psychiatry. If you or a loved one are struggling with a diagnosis of ADHD along with risk of schizophrenia or another mental disorder, AMFM Mental Health Treatment is here to help. With mental health programming provided on a regular basis, within a safe and supportive environment, AMFM’s compassionate teams are equipped to provide necessary support. You don’t have to go through this alone. 

adhd schizophrenia

More on Comorbid ADHD and Schizophrenia

ADHD is often treated with stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines,  which can work antagonistically to antipsychotics via opposing actions on dopamine (DA); for this reason, clinicians may be cautious of using stimulants in patients with or at-risk for psychosis.4 ADHD medication may also in some cases–where psychosis is less likely–help treat other negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Inattention is a common symptom of both ADHD and schizophrenia, and can lead to misdiagnosis. For effective treatment, it’s important to ensure distinct diagnoses, and if the two disorders are co-occurring, to follow-up with an analysis of the historical comorbid symptoms. If inattention persists after psychosis treatment in comorbid ADHD and schizophrenia, clinicians may consider nonstimulant treatment options, including atomoxetine or bupropion, and nonpharmacological interventions, like psychoeducation and cognitive behavioral therapy.5
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Common ADHD Symptoms

Symptoms of ADHD and Adult ADHD can include but are not limited to:

  • Inattention‌
  • Distractibility‌
  • Fidgeting
  • Decision-making
  • Forgetfulness
  • Lack of impulse control
  • Impulsive behavior
  • Impulsivity‌
  • Poor time management

Common Symptoms of Schizophrenia

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5), the characteristic symptoms of schizophrenia are the following, which (2+) present for a significant period of time during a one month period6:

  1. Delusions
  2. Hallucinations
  3. Disorganized speech (e.g., frequent derailment or incoherence)
  4. Grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior
  5. Negative symptoms (i.e., affective flattening, alogia, or avolition)

Types of Therapy Offered for ADHD and Schizophrenia

AMFM Mental Health Treatment offers a combination of holistic mental health services‌ for those with risk of psychosis and neurological disorders:

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy takes place in a one on one setting with a licensed professional, usually consisting of a combination of dialectical and cognitive behavioral therapies, in which a person can talk through his or her individual struggles. Individual therapy and mental health care is one of the most crucial steps for those facing mental health challenges.

Group Therapy

Group therapy sessions can be used to help provide structured times to help you understand that you are not alone in your struggles, that your peers are also walking through these challenges, while also providing guidance, suggestions and communications from psychologists with specialized backgrounds.7 These groups can span a variety of backgrounds, including but not limited to art therapy, somatic therapy, and narrative therapy.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that’s focused on restructuring and reprogramming maladaptive and negative thought processes.8 Psychologists are trained to help you change your cognitive and emotional processes in order to outgrow coping mechanisms that may no longer be serving you. 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is most commonly referred to as “talk therapy,” and is designed to help process emotions. Qualified professionals offer psychological therapy to move forward with healthy ways of engaging in interpersonal relationships and alleviating physical and emotional distress. 

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)

EMDR Therapy is a renowned method of reprocessing most often used in trauma therapy. By activating the prefrontal cortex through a series of bilateral stimulation, qualified professionals can lead you through traumatic experiences, helping you to alleviate the distress symptomized by trauma.

Crisis Intervention and Stabilization Services

A crisis is defined by the National Library of Medicine “as an overwhelming event, which can include divorce, violence, the passing of a loved one, or the discovery of a serious illness.”9 The goal of crisis intervention is to provide safety and reduce any potential harm to an individual undergoing a crisis.

Psychiatric Care

AMFM Mental Health Treatment provides comprehensive psychiatric care, along with traditional therapeutic modalities. Our on-staff clinicians are equipped to design personalized treatment plans for your continued success. In combination with psychotherapy, psychiatric care is handled safely, to help you or your loved one overcome mental health challenges.

Family Therapy Programs

Family therapy may be used when a loved one’s mental health symptoms are affecting others. This can increase a family members’ understanding of anxiety and talk about how to support each other. Family therapy sessions can improve communication patterns, focus on problem-solving, address unresolved conflicts, and increase the sense of understanding among one another.

Holistic Therapy focuses on the mind-body-spirit connection, approaching the whole person when it comes to mental health treatment, rather than addressing a singular symptom or challenge at a time. By healing the whole person–encouraging balance and well-being for well-rounded growth, holistic therapy can build health habits that last a lifetime.

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Types of Mental Health Programming for Schizophrenia

Inpatient/Residential Treatment

Residential mental health facilities are designed to offer mental health resources, structure, and treatment plans to those struggling with a variety of mental health conditions in a live-in environment. Because these are inpatient behavioral health programs, they offer a more holistic and hands-on, in-person treatment approach with 24/7 access to health care and personalized treatment plans. Our Residential Facilities have qualified clinicians on staff, to provide medication management, therapeutic programming, and the highest level of care.

Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP)

Intensive Outpatient Mental Health Treatment is a form of treatment designed to help those with mental health conditions through a combination of group and individual therapy. Qualified mental health professionals lead clients through behavioral health programming, providing personalized treatment plans, evidence-based programs, and psychoeducation resources. IOP programs provide comprehensive mental health treatment and thorough access to health care, but at a more flexible schedule. AMFM Mental Health Treatment offers outpatient programs in Virginia, Washington State, and California, with both in-person and virtual treatment options to meet your unique needs.

Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP)

PHP is a form of mental health treatment designed to help those struggling with mental health issues through a combination of group and individual therapy, to improve well-being. Qualified mental health professionals lead clients through behavioral health programming, providing personalized treatment plans, evidence-based programs, and psychoeducation resources. PHP programs provide comprehensive mental health treatment and thorough access to health care, but at a more flexible schedule. Unlike inpatient residential treatment, the partial hospitalization program option only takes place during the day, allowing clients to return home at night and on the weekends, with less disruption to your daily life. This level of care may be helpful for those continuing studies or work in the evenings or on the weekends. AMFM Mental Health Treatment offers PHP in Virginia, Washington State, and California, with both in-person and virtual treatment options to meet your unique needs.

Additional Mental Health Conditions for Treatment

AMFM Mental Health Treatment has extensive experience treating a variety of mental health disorders through evidence-based therapies, including but not limited to the following:

  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Eating Disorders
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Mood Disorders
  • Personality Disorders
  • Psychosis 
  • Schizophrenia
  • Panic Attacks


Recovery can feel isolating; mental health programming can provide cohesive treatment plans to help you or your loved one as you move forward
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Taking the First Step

Stress may be unavoidable, but it does not have to control your life. By learning practical strategies — deep breathing, movement, healthy routines, supportive relationships, and professional care — you can reduce stress levels, ease anxiety, and protect your health.

If you or a loved one are struggling with chronic stress or anxiety, relief is closer than it feels. Call AMFM today at 844-800-5046 to speak with a mental health professional and explore treatment options designed to restore balance, resilience, and well-being.

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 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.-a). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd 

World Health Organization. (n.d.-c). Schizophrenia. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/schizophrenia 

Gough A, Morrison J. Managing the comorbidity of schizophrenia and ADHD. J Psychiatry Neurosci. 2016 Aug;41(5):E79-80. doi: 10.1503/jpn.150251. PMID: 27575859; PMCID: PMC5008925.

Hanwella R, Senanayake M, de Silva V. Comparative efficacy and acceptability of methylphenidate and atomoxetine in treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: a meta-analysis. BMC Psychiatry. 2011;11:176. doi: 10.1186/1471-244X-11-176[PMC free article]

Mental Health Services Administration. Impact of the DSM-IV to DSM-5 Changes on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health [Internet]. Rockville (MD): Mental Health Services Administration (US); 2016 Jun. Table 3.20, DSM-IV to DSM-5 Psychotic Disorders. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519704/table/ch3.t20/

“Psychotherapy: Understanding group therapy.” American Psychological Association, 31 October 2019, https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/group-therapy. Accessed 20 February 2025.

“APA Dictionary of Psychology.” APA Dictionary of Psychology, https://dictionary.apa.org/cognitive-behavior-therapy. Accessed 20 February 2025.

MA, Carlberg K. “Crisis Intervention – StatPearls.” NCBI, 24 April 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559081/. Accessed 20 February 2025.