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Can ADHD lead to social anxiety? 

PostedSeptember 30, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 30, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Yes, ADHD social anxiety is a real and often overlooked experience. Many people with ADHD develop anxiety in social settings due to repeated misunderstandings, impulsive behaviour, or trouble keeping up with conversations. Over time, these challenges can lead to self-doubt and avoidance, reinforcing a cycle of isolation and fear. 

Unlike general ADHD anxiety disorders, which may centre on tasks or performance, ADHD social anxiety is rooted in social experiences. Individuals may become hyper-aware of their actions, overthink interactions, or fear being judged. These feelings can escalate, especially after embarrassing moments or perceived rejection. 

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How it shows up in daily life 

Avoiding social situations 

Many people with ADHD may start skipping social events to avoid the stress of interaction, which can feed into ADHD and isolation. 

Overthinking after conversations 

It’s common to replay what was said and worry about how it came across, which adds to overall tension and insecurity. 

Physical symptoms of social phobia 

Sweating, heart racing, or feeling frozen in group settings are not unusual signs of social phobia linked to ADHD. 

The good news is that ADHD social anxiety can be treated. With support, therapy, and small steps toward confidence, people with ADHD can reclaim social experiences and rebuild their comfort in connection. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Social Relationships.

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Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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