How can someone with ADHD repair hurt in a friendship? 

Repairing a friendship after causing hurt can be challenging for someone with ADHD due to symptoms such as impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and inattention. These traits can make it difficult to offer timely apologies or fully recognise the impact of one’s actions. However, clear and honest communication is key. As Berkshire Healthcare NHS (2024) suggests, acknowledging mistakes, expressing regret, and explaining ADHD’s impact on behaviour can help repair misunderstandings and rebuild trust. 

Effective strategies for repairing friendships 

To restore a damaged friendship, it’s important for individuals with ADHD to apologise sincerely and consistently follow through on commitments. SimplyPsychology (2025) recommends explaining ADHD-related behaviour, such as forgetfulness or impulsivity, in a direct and compassionate way. CBT, mindfulness, and behavioural coaching are effective strategies for managing impulsive reactions and improving emotional regulation. NICE NG87 (2025) also recommends psychoeducation and structured routines to help individuals with ADHD communicate better and manage conflicts constructively. 

Long-term relationship improvement 

Understanding ADHD’s effects on emotional reactivity can foster empathy in both parties, allowing for smoother communication and fewer misunderstandings. RCPsych (2024) emphasises that self-awareness and empathy are crucial in preventing further friction in relationships. 

Key takeaway 

Repairing hurt in friendships can be difficult for someone with ADHD, but with sincere communication, understanding, and emotional regulation strategies, it’s possible to rebuild trust and strengthen relationships over time.  

For further support, services like ADHD Certify provide ADHD assessments and medication reviews for adults. 

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.