How do psychiatrists approach ADHD when someone has trauma flashbacks?

When trauma is present, we move thoughtfully. ADHD and trauma symptoms can overlap, especially with concentration, irritability, and emotional reactivity. Flashbacks and hypervigilance can make attention look worse than it truly is. We usually assess which symptoms are primary and which are secondary. If trauma is highly active, stabilizing that first may be important. In some cases, we treat both in parallel with careful monitoring. Stimulants can sometimes increase anxiety in trauma survivors, but many tolerate them well once dosing is optimized. Trauma informed care means pacing treatment, building safety, and ensuring the person feels grounded. It is never about choosing one diagnosis over the other. It is about understanding how they interact.