Why do I feel disconnected from others with ADHD? 

Feeling disconnected or misunderstood is common among people with ADHD, even in close relationships. According to NHS guidance, this often stems from difficulties in emotional regulation, impulsivity, and rejection sensitivity. These traits can make social interactions feel draining or unpredictable, leading to feelings of isolation even when surrounded by others. The reassuring news is that these experiences are well recognised and can improve with awareness and support. 

Understanding why ADHD can make social connection harder 

ADHD can affect how people notice and respond to social cues. Research published in 2024 found that individuals with ADHD experience higher rates of loneliness and peer-related difficulties, often due to missed signals, impulsive reactions, or emotional intensity. Healthline and Simply Psychology both describe how rejection sensitivity and emotional dysregulation can make small setbacks feel painful, reinforcing disconnection and withdrawal. 

Therapies such as CBT and mindfulness can help individuals build awareness of emotional triggers, improve empathy, and manage social anxiety. NICE’s NG87 guidance recommends psychosocial interventions and psychoeducation as part of comprehensive ADHD care. Medication may also help regulate attention and emotion, making it easier to connect meaningfully with others. 

Private services like ADHD Certify offer assessments and post-diagnostic reviews that can help people better understand and manage the emotional aspects of ADHD within a supportive framework. 

Key takeaway 

Feeling disconnected is a recognised experience for many with ADHD, but it doesn’t have to define relationships. With evidence-based strategies, therapeutic support, and self-understanding, people with ADHD can strengthen connection, manage rejection sensitivity, and build more fulfilling emotional bonds. 

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.