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How common is emotional dysregulation in ADHD? 

PostedOctober 3, 2025
UpdatedOctober 3, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Emotional dysregulation in ADHD refers to challenges in managing emotions like frustration, mood swings, and impulsive reactions. But what is the frequency this affects individuals with ADHD? 

Research indicates that in children, estimates prevalence of emotional dysregulation in ADHD vary widely, with rates ranging from 25% to 45% experiencing significant emotional difficulties. In adults, the numbers are often higher, typically between 30% and 70%. 

Studies also reveal that in a comparison group, 63% of children with ADHD showed severe emotional dysregulation, compared to only 12% of those without ADHD. It’s clear that emotional dysregulation is not only prevalent but also strongly linked to ADHD symptoms across age groups. 

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Adult vs Children: What the Numbers Reveal 

In essence, emotional dysregulation in ADHD affects more than a third of children and perhaps up to two-thirds of adults with the condition. Clinical studies show that the intensity and variability of emotions often referred to as emotional lability are especially prominent among individuals with ADHD.  

In conclusion, these findings emphasise that prevalence of emotional dysregulation in ADHD is a significant and persistent feature of ADHD, not merely a developmental phase.  

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Emotional Regulation in ADHD.  

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Avery Lombardi, MSc, author for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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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