Is emotional dysregulation a symptom of ADHD?

PostedDecember 2, 2025

UpdatedDecember 29, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Many adults with ADHD describe rapid mood shifts, strong reactions to stress, or feeling overwhelmed by emotions. According to the NHS, these experiences are very common. However, emotional dysregulation is not included in the formal diagnostic criteria for ADHD in the UK. It is considered an associated difficulty rather than a core symptom, but one that can meaningfully affect daily life.

Why emotional dysregulation is common in ADHD

The NHS explains that adults with ADHD often struggle with frustration tolerance, irritability, big emotional reactions, and difficulty coping with stress or disappointment. These challenges can influence relationships, work, and self-esteem.

The Royal College of Psychiatrists describes similar patterns, noting that emotional swings, strong reactions to setbacks, and sensitivity to perceived criticism are frequent experiences. Although these emotional responses are not part of the diagnostic definition, they are widely recognised in UK clinical practice.

NICE acknowledges that emotional symptoms can be significant and should be addressed during care planning. Psychological support that helps people understand mood shifts and frustration can form an important part of ADHD management. See NICE Guideline NG87.

Peer-reviewed research published in journals such as BMJ Open and The Lancet Psychiatry identifies clear links between ADHD and emotional dysregulation. Studies show that differences in executive functioning, including inhibition and working memory, can make it harder to pause, regulate emotions, and recover from emotional spikes.

International sources, including the Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic, also highlight that mood swings, emotional overwhelm, and rejection sensitivity are common alongside ADHD, even though they are not part of the diagnostic criteria.

Support that can help with emotional dysregulation

The NHS recommend psychological interventions such as CBT, psychoeducation, and skills-based training to help people understand and manage emotional responses. These approaches can support people in identifying emotional triggers, pausing before reacting, and building more flexible coping skills.

Many adults also find grounding techniques, DBT-informed tools, mindfulness, and self-compassion practices helpful. Evidence for these approaches is strong for CBT and psychoeducation, and emerging for mindfulness and self-compassion.

If someone is exploring how emotional dysregulation fits into their ADHD profile, they may consider NHS pathways or private assessment options. Services like ADHD Certify provide ADHD assessments for adults and children in the UK.

Takeaway

Emotional dysregulation is not listed as a core diagnostic symptom of ADHD in the UK. However, according to NHS and extensive research, it is one of the most common and impactful associated difficulties. With the right support, including CBT, psychoeducation, and practical emotion regulation strategies, many people can develop greater emotional stability and feel more in control of their responses.

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.