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Why do people with ADHD struggle with emotional regulation? 

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Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD emotional regulation difficulties are a common but often overlooked part of the condition. While ADHD is typically associated with focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, emotional challenges like sudden outbursts, low frustration tolerance, or difficulty calming down are just as impactful. 

These struggles are not about being overly sensitive or lacking discipline. They are rooted in the brain’s structure and function, particularly in the areas responsible for executive dysfunction and self-control. 

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What’s Happening in the Brain? 

Here’s why emotional regulation can be so hard for people with ADHD: 

Executive dysfunction  

The brain’s executive system, which helps manage attention, planning, and self-regulation, also plays a key role in handling emotions. When this system is underactive or uncoordinated, managing emotional responses becomes more difficult. 

Imbalanced neurotransmitters  

People with ADHD often have lower levels of dopamine and norepinephrine key neurotransmitters involved in mood and reward. These imbalances can lead to more intense emotional reactions and slower recovery after emotional upsets. 

Delayed brain development  

Some research shows that the brain function involved in emotional control develop more slowly in people with ADHD, making it harder for them to manage their responses, especially in childhood and adolescence. 

In conclusion, understanding ADHD emotional regulation difficulties helps shift the focus from blame to support highlighting the importance of patience, targeted strategies, and professional guidance.  

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Emotional Regulation in ADHD.  

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Avery Lombardi, MSc
Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

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
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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