By Dr Jaspreet Saini. Published . Updated .
Last reviewed 2026-10-16
Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness and feeling overwhelmed are common. They are also exactly the experiences that lead people to wonder about ADHD. The harder question is what else might be producing them.
The short answer
The main difference is timing and pattern. ADHD is lifelong and present from childhood. Anxiety, burnout and sleep problems usually have a clearer beginning and tend to change with circumstances.
What we know
Anxiety narrows attention towards worry. Burnout drains energy and motivation after a long period of strain. Poor sleep, including sleep apnoea, impairs focus and memory in almost everyone. Each can look like ADHD in a single conversation.
These conditions also commonly occur alongside ADHD. Someone can have ADHD and anxiety at the same time, and treating one can make the other easier to see.
What we don't know
Separating causes is not always clean. Some people have several contributing factors, and the balance only becomes clear over time or after one is treated.
What else matters
A good assessment asks about sleep, mood, alcohol and other substances, physical health and recent life events, not only attention. Thyroid problems, iron deficiency and some medicines can also affect concentration.
What you can do next
Notice when the changes began and whether they come and go. Keep a short sleep diary for two weeks. Take both to a GP, who can check physical causes and help decide whether an ADHD assessment is the right next step.
Sources
This article is general information, not personal medical advice. Speak with your own doctor about your situation.