Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Many individuals with ADHD feel like they are a burden to others, often due to impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and difficulties in social interactions. According to NHS resources, these feelings stem from a combination of low self-esteem, rejection sensitivity, and the frustration of managing ADHD symptoms. Over time, these challenges can reinforce cycles of self-doubt, making individuals feel like they are “too much” for others.
Why people with ADHD feel like a burden
ADHD can make it difficult to regulate emotions, leading to emotional outbursts or perceived rejection. Research shows that heightened sensitivity to criticism and failure to meet social expectations often leads to feelings of shame and withdrawal. These experiences are particularly prevalent in adults with ADHD, especially women, as noted in recent PubMed studies.
Evidence-based strategies for improving self-esteem
NICE guideline NG87 recommends several interventions, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and emotion regulation strategies, to help individuals manage their emotions and improve social functioning. NHS and NICE also advocate for social skills training and self-compassion practices to counteract negative self-talk and rebuild self-confidence.
Private services like ADHD Certify offer assessments and tailored support for people with ADHD, helping them navigate challenges and improve their emotional well-being.
Key takeaway
If you feel like a burden, know that ADHD can amplify feelings of being misunderstood or isolated. With the right support, therapy, and coping strategies, it is possible to change your self-perception and build healthier relationships.
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.
