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What resources are available for adults with ADHD and low confidence? 

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

Low confidence is a common experience for adults with ADHD. Many people describe years of feeling misunderstood, criticised or “not good enough”, which can affect self-esteem and emotional wellbeing. According to NHS adult ADHD guidance, support for adults often includes talking therapies, practical self-help strategies and community or peer support; all of which can help rebuild confidence. 

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NHS support and talking therapies 

The NHS explains that talking therapies such as CBT can help people identify and challenge unhelpful beliefs linked to low self-esteem. NHS self-esteem advice emphasises recognising negative thoughts and learning to replace them with more balanced, accurate ones. NHS Talking Therapies services offer CBT, counselling and guided self-help for anxiety, low mood and persistent low confidence. 

Many services also offer ADHD-specific psychoeducation. Webinars such as HPFT’s “Understanding ADHD and low self-esteem” introduce CBT-based tools adapted for ADHD and help explain why repeated struggles often lead to self-doubt. 

Structured ADHD resources 

Local NHS ADHD teams provide practical tools and guidance. 

  • CNWL’s Adult ADHD Service includes self-help strategies, information on medication, CBT and ADHD coaching, and advice on workplace adjustments. 
  • ELFT’s ADHD Support Pack offers routines, planners, sleep tips, Access to Work guidance and links to national ADHD charities. 

These services help people understand their ADHD, build structure and strengthen day-to-day confidence. 

Psychological interventions and coaching 

According to NICE NG87, adults who need non-pharmacological support should be offered structured psychological interventions focused on ADHD; often CBT-based, including organisation, emotional regulation and problem-solving skills. These approaches help reduce the cycle of mistakes and self-criticism that erodes confidence. 

ADHD coaching can also help some adults develop planning, time management and goal-setting skills, leading to repeated “mastery experiences” that gradually improve self-esteem. While not formally endorsed by NICE as a stand-alone treatment, coaching is frequently signposted by NHS services. 

Peer support and community resources 

Support groups and ADHD communities can reduce isolation and provide reassurance. Leeds & York’s ADHD resources list online and in-person groups where adults share coping strategies and experiences. Qualitative studies show these groups often help people move from self-blame to self-understanding. 

Charities such as ADHD UK, ADHDadultUK and Mind provide peer support, webinars and practical guidance that many adults find confidence-building. 

Digital and online tools 

Digital CBT-style ADHD interventions, such as those evaluated in recent RCTs, show improvements in symptoms and quality of life. They offer structured modules on emotional regulation, planning and self-acceptance, all important for improving confidence. 

Takeaway

Adults with ADHD have access to a wide range of resources, from NHS Talking Therapies and structured ADHD support packs to coaching, peer groups and digital tools. Together, these approaches can help people understand their ADHD, challenge negative beliefs, and build stronger, healthier confidence in everyday life. 

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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