Kids with ADHD and autism face far higher mental-health risk

Across 14,000+ young people, those with neurodevelopmental disorders were 3 to 15 times more likely to also have anxiety, depression, or behavioral conditions.

This review looked at how often children and teens with neurodevelopmental disorders—such as ADHD, autism, intellectual disability, and learning disorders—also experience mental‑health conditions like anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems. After examining data from over 14,000 young people, the findings were clear: psychiatric conditions are much more common in children with these disorders than in their neurotypical peers. Rates varied widely, but anxiety and behavioral problems were especially common. Children with neurodevelopmental disorders were between 3 and 15 times more likely to have these additional mental‑health challenges. The study highlights the importance of routinely screening for anxiety, depression, and behavior issues in this group so they can get support early.