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What role does self-awareness play in managing ADHD-related imposter syndrome? 

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Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Living with ADHD can affect how you see yourself, not just how you manage your day. According to NICE guidance, ADHD can affect psychological and social wellbeing. Research also shows adults with ADHD consistently report lower self-esteem than people without ADHD, highlighted in a 2024 systematic review.

Begin your ADHD assessment today

 

How ADHD shapes self-awareness and self-doubt 

A major review of self-esteem in ADHD found strong links between ADHD, low self-esteem and internalising symptoms. Long-term research suggests that ADHD symptoms and low self-esteem can influence each other over time, creating a cycle of self-doubt. 

Neuropsychological studies also show difficulties with metacognition; the ability to assess your own performance accurately. Adults with ADHD may over- or under-estimate their abilities compared with objective measures, which can feed imposter-like thoughts. Research on rejection sensitivity highlights intense shame and self-blame in response to perceived failure or criticism, reinforcing a sense of being “not good enough”. 
See: metacognition findings and RSD qualitative study. 

How self-awareness can help 

Self-awareness in ADHD is not about being more self-critical; it’s about understanding yourself more accurately and compassionately. Evidence points to several helpful approaches: 

  • Psychoeducation and ACT/CBT. Combined psychoeducation and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy has been shown to increase psychological flexibility, self-acceptance and understanding of ADHD, reducing harsh self-judgement. 
    ACT/psychoeducation trial 
  • Metacognitive and occupational approaches. Cognitive–functional interventions help adults observe how they plan and organise in real life, improving day-to-day performance and self-awareness. 
    Cog-Fun intervention 
  • Coaching and reflective support. Coaching can increase self-knowledge and help adults recognise both strengths and challenges more clearly. 
    Coaching evaluation 
  • Self-compassion practices. Emerging evidence suggests that self-compassion helps buffer shame and overcritical thinking in adults with ADHD. 
    Self-compassion study 

NHS resources also emphasise psychoeducation, CBT and peer support as ways to reduce low mood, anxiety and low self-esteem in adults with ADHD. 
NHS ADHD guidance 

Some people build this self-awareness through NHS routes; others through regulated private services such as ADHD Certify, which provides ADHD assessments for adults and children.  

What this means for imposter feelings 

While research specifically on “ADHD-related imposter syndrome” is limited, the broader evidence is clear: improving self-awareness; especially self-knowledge, metacognitive insight and self-compassion can reduce the intensity and frequency of imposter-type thoughts. 

As adults understand their ADHD more fully, they often report: 

  • Reduced harsh self-judgement 
  • More balanced interpretations of success and difficulty 
  • Increased confidence and emotional resilience 

Takeaway 

Self-awareness can be a powerful antidote to imposter feelings in ADHD. By understanding your patterns, recognising your strengths and developing a kinder inner voice, it becomes easier to see your achievements as real and your challenges as manageable. This article is for general information only for personalised advice, speak to a qualified healthcare professional. 

Phoebe Carter, MSc
Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

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. 

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