Anxiety & Depression That Might Be Untreated ADHD or Autism
Maybe you've been treated for anxiety or depression for years and it never quite fits. You work twice as hard to keep up, you're exhausted from holding it together, and you've always felt a little different. Sometimes the anxiety and low mood are the result of something underneath: ADHD that was never treated, or autism that was never recognized. At Empowered Health DPC, Dr. Frank Aliganga takes the time to look at the whole picture, from our offices in West Deptford, NJ and Old City Philadelphia.
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If you're thinking about harming yourself or are in crisis, call or text 988 now, or call 911.
Does this sound familiar?
You've tried treatments for anxiety or depression, and they only help so much
Constant overwhelm, missed deadlines, lost keys and "careless" mistakes despite trying hard
Racing thoughts, restlessness, or trouble starting tasks you care about
Feeling drained after social situations, or like you're always performing "normal"
Strong reactions to noise, light, crowds or changes in routine
Shutting down or melting down after long days
A child or relative was recently diagnosed, and you see yourself in them
Why this happens
Living with ADHD or autism that no one has recognized takes a toll. Years of struggling, masking and being told to "just try harder" can wear anyone down. It's no surprise that anxiety and depression often travel with ADHD and autism.
More than half of U.S. adults with ADHD were diagnosed as adults, and over a third of adults with ADHD received no treatment in the past year, according to CDC data.
Among autistic adults, an estimated 27% currently live with an anxiety disorder and 23% with depression, according to a 2019 review of studies.
Treating the anxiety or depression alone can leave the root cause untouched. Recognizing what's underneath often makes the rest of your care work better.
How we help
An unhurried first visit, usually 60 to 90 minutes, to hear your whole story from childhood on
Screening for ADHD and autism traits, alongside anxiety and depression
Diagnosing adult ADHD or autism when it's within Dr. Aliganga's scope, or coordinating a specialist evaluation when that's the better fit
ADHD treatment, including medication when appropriate, with regular follow-up
Care for anxiety, depression, sleep and burnout, built around how your brain works
Coordination with therapists and psychiatrists who understand neurodiversity
You can message Dr. Aliganga between visits, in writing if that's easier.
Meet your doctor
Frank Aliganga, MD, FAAFP is double board certified in family medicine and obesity medicine. He serves as Treasurer of the New Jersey Academy of Family Physicians and is licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Read more
Related: Neurodiverse care
Common questions
Can adults really have undiagnosed ADHD or autism?
Yes. Many adults, especially those who did well in school or learned to mask, aren't recognized until adulthood, often after a child is diagnosed.
Do you diagnose ADHD or autism?
Often, yes. We screen and talk through your history. For adults, Dr. Aliganga coordinates ADHD and autism evaluations, and when a case is within his scope, he can make the diagnosis himself. When a specialist evaluation is the better fit, we'll arrange it. If you already have a diagnosis, we build your care around it.
Will treating ADHD help my anxiety?
For some people, yes, when the anxiety comes from constantly falling behind. Everyone is different, so we'll track how you're doing and adjust together.
Are visits included in the membership?
Yes. Membership covers your visits and messaging, with no copays or per-visit fees, ever. Medications are billed separately. See rates
What if it's an emergency?
Call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911. Don't wait for a message reply.
Let's figure it out together
Text "Tell me more" to 609-678-3299, or send us a message. Writing is great.
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Medically reviewed by Frank Aliganga, MD, FAAFP · Last reviewed November 2026. This page is educational and isn't medical advice. Results vary.