Free Health Updates
Skip to main content
Table of Contents
< All Topics
Print

How can individuals with ADHD celebrate their successes? 

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

Celebrating success might sound simple, but for many people with ADHD, it can feel strangely difficult. Research shows that adults with ADHD often have lower self-esteem and tend to discount their achievements, even when they’ve worked hard for them. A 2024 systematic review highlights that adults with ADHD consistently report lower self-esteem and that self-evaluation is closely tied to wellbeing (systematic review). Long-term studies also show a reciprocal loop between ADHD symptoms and low self-esteem, meaning that recognising success matters for mental health as well as confidence. 

Begin your ADHD assessment today

Why celebrating achievements doesn’t always come naturally 

ADHD affects reward processing. Studies indicate a preference for immediate rewards and a reduced sense of satisfaction from delayed achievements, which can make it harder to “feel” proud of progress (delay-discounting study). Many adults also describe masking, lifelong criticism or internalised shame, which can make achievements feel like “luck” rather than something earned. Qualitative studies report that individuals often dismiss praise or minimise success because they struggle to see their strengths objectively (BJP qualitative review). 

Guidance from NICE NG87 recommends psychoeducation and structured psychological support to help adults understand ADHD, recognise progress and build confidence, rather than focusing solely on symptoms (NICE guidance). 

Evidence-informed ways to celebrate success with ADHD 

These approaches reflect what research and clinical guidance suggest works well for adults with ADHD: 

  • Track small wins, not just big ones. Psychoeducation and ACT-based programmes show that reflecting on progress helps adults build self-acceptance and psychological flexibility, especially when they record or share small achievements regularly (UMAAP programme). 
  • Name your strengths. Research into positive ADHD traits highlights creativity, energy, hyperfocus and flexibility as genuine strengths that improve self-image when recognised (positive traits study). 
  • Use short feedback loops. Because motivation can drop when rewards are far away, breaking goals into steps and celebrating each one helps sustain momentum. NHS resources recommend rewards and noticing “what went well” as part of behavioural strategies for adults with ADHD (NHS guidance). 
  • Share your progress with supportive people. Group psychoeducation and ADHD coaching both show improvements in self-esteem and self-organisation, partly because talking through achievements helps people see them more clearly (coaching review). 
  • Practise self-compassion. Emerging evidence suggests that self-compassion reduces shame and supports healthier self-evaluation, making it easier to acknowledge successes without minimising them (self-compassion study). 

Some people explore this self-reflective work through NHS services; others through regulated private services such as ADHD Certify, which offers ADHD assessments for adults and children in the UK.  

Takeaway 

Celebrating success isn’t about pretending everything is perfect, it’s about recognising the real effort and progress behind your achievements. For individuals with ADHD, breaking goals into smaller steps, using shorter reward loops, naming strengths, and practising self-compassion can make success feel more real and motivating. This article is for general information only, for personalised support, speaking to a GP or qualified mental health 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. 

Categories