hardADHDmajor depressive disordercomorbiditystimulanttreatment sequencing
A 22-year-old college student presents with a confirmed history of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder diagnosed in childhood and a new onset of major depressive disorder over the past four months. His ADHD was previously managed with a stimulant medication that was discontinued two years ago when he felt he no longer needed it. He now reports worsening inattention, poor concentration, low motivation, depressed mood, anhedonia, and sleep disturbance. His PHQ-9 score is 16 and his Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale score is elevated. He has no history of mania, hypomania, substance use disorder, or psychosis. Which of the following best describes the appropriate treatment-planning approach for this patient?