ADHD And The Challenge of Emotional Regulation

Many people know some of the most common symptoms of ADHD. It’s associated with things like a lack of focus, being easily distracted, or even being restless and impulsive. 

But, emotional dysregulation is another common symptom that isn’t often discussed as much. People with ADHD can feel strong, heightened emotions that can sometimes feel difficult to manage or control. 

Let’s take a closer look at ADHD and how challenging it can be for people with the disorder to regulate their emotions effectively. If you or someone you know has ADHD and you’ve never heard of this common symptom before, developing a better understanding of what it means can serve as the first step to help you manage it. 

What Is Emotional Regulation?

Emotional regulation refers to a person’s ability to control their emotional state. You can’t control how you feel, but most people are able to control how they respond to those feelings. 

People with ADHD often have a more difficult time with emotional regulation because their feelings are so strong. The minute you feel something, you’re more likely to react to it. If you think of your brain as having a filter that slows down your emotional reaction, ADHD removes it. 

As a result, you’re more likely to say exactly what you’re thinking and feeling than someone without ADHD. On paper, that might not seem like a bad thing. But, if you say or do something based on emotions and it’s at the wrong place or time, it can end up causing even stronger emotions of guilt and embarrassment. That will contribute to a negative cycle that can quickly make you feel like your emotions are spinning out of control. 

Do You Have Emotional Dysregulation?

Not every person diagnosed with ADHD will have challenges regulating their emotions. However, you’re certainly at a greater risk of emotional dysregulation if you have this disorder. 

So, how can you tell? 

The most obvious sign is impulsivity. It’s not uncommon for people with ADHD to be impulsive in their behaviors. But, if you also tend to say whatever is on your mind or you have a hard time keeping your emotions in as soon as you feel them, that’s impulsive, too. 

You might also notice that most of your emotions are negative and that you are heavily focused on them. People with ADHD often have a lower resilience factor. So, things that might not bother someone else can impact you deeply, causing your emotions to come forward that much stronger. 

What Can You Do?

If you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, the best thing you can do is work with your doctor or a mental health professional. Often, a combination of medication and therapy is an effective way to manage ADHD symptoms. 

However, if you know you have ADHD and no one has ever discussed emotional regulation with you, make sure to bring it up. On your own, try to slow down when it comes to accepting your emotions. If you feel them coming on strongly, try to give them a name and label them as they come so you’ll feel more in control. 

Mindfulness can also improve emotional regulation. It keeps you grounded and focused on the present, rather than letting emotions take over your actions. If you feel like you’re losing control over your emotions, close your eyes and focus on taking slow, deep breaths. Tune in to how your body feels at this very moment, and let yourself settle into a state of tranquility. 

You don’t have to deal with the effects of ADHD on your own, especially if you’re learning about new symptoms. Feel free to set up an appointment or to learn more about the connection between ADHD and emotional regulation through teen therapy.