Is low frustration tolerance a symptom of ADHD?

PostedOctober 31, 2025

UpdatedNovember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

For many people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), emotions can feel intense and difficult to manage. One of the most common challenges reported by both adults and young people is low frustration tolerance finding it hard to stay calm or patient when things go wrong. This can show up as irritability, anger, or giving up quickly when faced with obstacles.

According to NICE guidance NG87, emotional dysregulation is a recognised feature of ADHD. People with the condition may experience frustration more easily because the brain systems responsible for self-control and emotional regulation work differently. The NHS also notes that difficulties such as irritability, low mood, and frustration are common in adults with ADHD and can affect daily life, relationships, and confidence. Importantly, these reactions are not signs of poor character or weakness but part of the neurobiological nature of ADHD.

Recent research supports this understanding. A 2024 study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders found that adults with ADHD displayed increased irritability and lower frustration tolerance during demanding tasks. Similarly, a 2025 study in Biological Psychiatry reported that people with ADHD showed greater brain sensitivity to disappointment and stress, confirming that frustration intolerance arises from the emotional regulation difficulties within ADHD rather than from coexisting conditions.

Understanding and managing low frustration tolerance

Low frustration tolerance in ADHD is closely linked to emotional impulsivity reacting quickly and intensely to stress or perceived failure. The Royal College of Psychiatrists explains that adults with ADHD often experience emotional build-up, which can lead to anger outbursts or abrupt withdrawal. This happens because the brain’s “pause” mechanism, which helps regulate emotional responses, may be less active.

Therapeutic approaches can make a significant difference. NICE recommends Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based techniques to help people recognise emotional triggers and manage frustration more effectively. CBT focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts, practising self-awareness, and learning calming strategies before frustration escalates. Mindfulness and compassion-focused therapies help individuals pause and respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively.

Medication may also play a role in improving emotional balance. Stimulant and non-stimulant treatments can reduce irritability and strengthen self-control, supporting better frustration tolerance. The NHS further advises incorporating practical strategies such as consistent routines, healthy sleep, and regular exercise to promote emotional stability.

Building frustration tolerance takes time and self-awareness, but progress is achievable. With appropriate therapy, support, and self-care, individuals with ADHD can learn to manage frustration, maintain calm, and respond to challenges with greater patience and confidence.

Key takeaway

Low frustration tolerance is a recognised symptom of ADHD that stems from emotional regulation difficulties rather than lack of willpower. Combining evidence-based therapy such as CBT or mindfulness with appropriate medication and lifestyle strategies can help individuals develop patience, reduce irritability, and build emotional resilience. Understanding frustration as part of ADHD, not a flaw, is the first step towards managing it with self-compassion and control.

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

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.