Why do I feel like I’m too much for others with ADHD? 

Many people with ADHD feel like they’re “too much” for others, often due to emotional intensity, impulsivity, and difficulty in social interactions. According to NHS resources, emotional dysregulation and heightened sensitivity to rejection are common experiences that make relationships feel overwhelming. These feelings can arise from the challenges of maintaining focus, managing emotional responses, and communicating effectively with others.

Why people with ADHD feel “too much” 

ADHD often involves impulsivity, emotional reactivity, and difficulties with social cues, which can create a sense of being burdensome. Emotional intensity, driven by rejection sensitivity, and struggles with self-esteem often worsen these feelings. A 2024 PubMed study found that individuals with ADHD tend to internalise negative feedback, reinforcing cycles of self-doubt and social anxiety. 

Managing social relationships with ADHD 

NICE guidelines (NG87) recommend open communication about ADHD in relationships to set realistic expectations. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), social skills training, and mindfulness can help build self-awareness and improve social interactions. Regular routines, emotional regulation training, and structured support such as peer groups and psychoeducation also play an important role in reducing the emotional burden. 

Private services like ADHD Certify provide assessments and care tailored to individuals with ADHD, offering support to improve self-acceptance and social confidence. 

Key takeaway 

If you feel like “too much” for others, remember that ADHD is behind these emotional challenges. With the right support and strategies, you can learn to manage relationships, boost self-esteem, and foster healthier connections. 

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.