How can I improve empathy with ADHD?
Empathy plays a vital role in maintaining strong relationships and understanding others’ emotions, but for many people with ADHD, this can be an area of real difficulty. Emotional impulsivity, distractibility, and overstimulation can make it harder to tune into others’ feelings or respond calmly in the moment. According to NHS guidance, these challenges are not a reflection of character but rather part of ADHD’s impact on how the brain regulates attention and emotion. The encouraging news is that empathy skills can be developed and strengthened with the right strategies and support.
Understanding empathy and emotional regulation
ADHD is often linked with challenges in emotional regulation and empathy, which can influence how people connect with others. The NICE NG87 guideline notes that emotional regulation and social functioning are key areas for support within ADHD management. Many people with ADHD describe finding it harder to read others’ emotions or respond appropriately in social settings, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or frustration. Research from the Royal College of Psychiatrists also highlights how emotional dysregulation forms part of ADHD’s neurodevelopmental profile.
Building empathy through evidence-based approaches
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based interventions have been shown to improve emotional regulation and self-awareness in people with ADHD. These therapies help individuals recognise emotional triggers and strengthen their ability to respond with empathy rather than impulse. According to NHS advice, psychoeducation and coaching programmes also support adults and children in developing relationship skills and emotional insight.
Medication can also help stabilise mood and attention, indirectly supporting empathy by improving focus and emotional control, as suggested in a 2022 PubMed study. Additionally, social skills interventions have been shown to enhance empathy and emotional awareness in both children and adults with ADHD.
Private services like ADHD Certify provide assessments and post-diagnostic reviews that can help individuals understand and manage these aspects of ADHD within a comprehensive care plan.
Key takeaway
Improving empathy with ADHD involves understanding that emotional regulation difficulties are part of how the condition affects the brain. With the right mix of therapy, coaching, and, where appropriate, medication, people with ADHD can strengthen empathy, deepen social connections, and improve their overall emotional wellbeing.
