Can ADHD cause frequent misunderstandings in feedback sessions 

Many adults with ADHD find feedback sessions challenging not because they don’t want to improve, but because symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and emotional sensitivity can make it hard to process comments calmly. What may feel like constructive guidance to a manager can sometimes feel overwhelming or personal to someone with ADHD. According to NHS guidance, these reactions are part of how ADHD affects focus, working memory, and emotional regulation not a reflection of effort or attitude. 

Why misunderstandings happen 

Feedback often relies on reading tone, expression, and implied meaning areas that can be more difficult for people with ADHD. The Royal College of Psychiatrists notes that adults with ADHD may misread tone or miss key details, leading to defensiveness or confusion. Research published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research (2023) found that emotional dysregulation and rejection sensitivity make feedback feel like criticism, even when well-intended.  

The Mayo Clinic also highlights that executive function challenges such as working memory and impulse control can cause people to forget, misinterpret, or overreact to feedback under stress. 

Ways to make feedback work better 

According to NICE guidance (NG87) and NHS recommendations on ADHD treatment, structured psychological approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and mindfulness can help individuals manage emotional responses and interpret feedback more clearly. Supervisors can also make a difference by offering feedback in writing, allowing processing time, and focusing on collaboration rather than fault.  

Private services like ADHD Certify provide ADHD assessments and post-diagnostic guidance to help adults recognise these patterns and build confidence in professional settings. 

Key takeaway 

ADHD can make feedback sessions feel emotionally intense or confusing, but these difficulties are manageable with understanding, structure, and support. Clear communication, self-awareness, and empathy from both sides can turn feedback into a tool for growth rather than stress. If you’re finding it hard to navigate feedback or emotional reactions at work, it may help to speak with a GP or qualified mental health professional for additional 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.