Managing Emotional Regulation Challenges in Adults with ADHD 

Adults with ADHD often struggle with emotional dysregulation, which manifests as rapid mood swings, irritability, frustration, and difficulty managing stress. These challenges are rooted in dopamine dysregulation, prefrontal cortex underactivity, and hyperactivity in the limbic system, which affect the brain’s ability to manage emotions and inhibit impulsive reactions. According to NICE guidance (NG87, 2025), emotional regulation is a common challenge for adults with ADHD, affecting both personal and professional life. 

Strategies for Managing Emotional Dysregulation 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify emotional triggers, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and develop coping strategies. Combining CBT with mindfulness-based practices (such as breathing exercises and meditation) has been shown to improve emotional control and reduce impulsivity. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) focuses on mindfulness and emotional regulation skills, while medication management (including stimulants and non-stimulants) can help balance dopamine levels and reduce emotional volatility. 

Key takeaway 

Managing emotional regulation in ADHD involves a combination of therapies, mindfulness, medication, and practical techniques. By using tools like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, adults with ADHD can gain better control over their emotions, reduce impulsivity, and improve their overall emotional stability. If you’re finding emotional regulation difficult, consider an ADHD Certify assessment for tailored strategies and ongoing support. 

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.