How to Deal with Emotional Dysregulation in ADHD

Table of Contents Strategies to Manage Emotional Dysregulation in ADHD Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

ADHD
March 21, 2025

Introduction

Emotional dysregulation is a common but often overlooked aspect of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

It refers to the inability to regulate emotional responses appropriately, leading to intense feelings and overblown reactions.

I would like to introduce you to a step-by-step process on how to deal with emotional dysregulation in ADHD.

If you know someone who this might benefit, please feel free to share it with them.

Step 1 - Recognize Emotional Dysregulation

The first step in dealing with emotional dysregulation in ADHD is recognizing the signs.

People with ADHD might experience intense emotions, low frustration tolerance, overwhelming emotions, and frequent mood swings.

They may have trouble calming down after an emotional outburst, which can strain interpersonal relationships and lead to social isolation.

Step 2 - Seek Professional Help

Seeking professional help is crucial for gaining a comprehensive understanding of emotional dysregulation and its impact on a person's life.

Mental health professionals can provide an accurate diagnosis and suggest appropriate strategies for emotion regulation.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), for example, can help individuals learn how to self-regulate and regain control over their emotional responses.

Medical professionals are also required if you need online medication management for ADHD.

Step 3 - Develop Emotional Regulation Skills

Developing emotional regulation skills is key to managing emotional dysregulation in ADHD.

This might involve learning how to recognize triggers for intense feelings, implementing coping mechanisms, and practicing self-regulation.

Techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive control exercises, and working memory training can enhance executive functioning and help manage emotional difficulties.

Step 4 - Implement Healthy Lifestyle Changes

Implementing healthy lifestyle changes can also contribute to better emotion regulation.

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and avoiding substance misuse can improve overall mental health and help regulate emotions.

Building healthy relationships and seeking support from loved ones can also help manage the impact of emotional dysregulation.

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Step 5 - Maintain Regular Follow-Up with Healthcare Providers

Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is essential to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

This can help ensure that the strategies for dealing with emotional dysregulation in ADHD remain effective and adaptable to changes in the individual's life.

Emotion Regulation Strategies and Examples

Emotional regulation is a critical skill for individuals, particularly for those dealing with adult ADHD.

  • Mindfulness - Practicing mindfulness helps in recognizing and accepting the emotional response without judgment, enabling better control over reactions.
  • Positive Self-Talk - Replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations can help mitigate the impact of negative emotions.
  • Situation Selection and Modification - Choosing or modifying situations that are likely to trigger negative emotions can help manage emotional responses.
  • Attention-Shifting - Redirecting attention away from emotional triggers can help in regulating emotions.
  • Acceptance - Accepting emotions as they come, instead of resisting or suppressing them, can reduce their intensity and make them easier to manage.

By implementing these strategies, individuals with adult ADHD can gain better control over their emotional responses, reducing the impact of emotional dysregulation on their daily lives.

ADHD symptoms often include emotional dysregulation, which can lead to an excessive emotional response to stimuli, making it challenging to manage negative emotions.

The emotional dysregulation impact in ADHD can be significant, affecting various areas of life, from work performance to interpersonal relationships.

Research

The following is a summary breakdown of the research provided by the NCBI. Read more about it here.

Emotion dysregulation (ED), a difficulty in controlling emotional responses, is significantly associated with ADHD, according to a recent scientific study.

This association remains even after considering age, sex, attention issues, and other mental health conditions, indicating that ADHD is strongly linked to Emotional Dysregulation.

Interestingly, the research found that this relationship might be influenced by genetics, suggesting a common genetic background between ADHD and Emotional Dysregulation.

If you have ADHD, you should be aware that you're at a higher risk of experiencing emotional dysregulation.

Understanding this connection can provide valuable insights into managing your situation better.

Early detection and treatment of emotional difficulties can significantly improve the outcomes for individuals with ADHD.

Additionally, individuals with other mental health conditions such as autism or affective disorders also exhibit higher levels of emotion dysregulation, emphasizing its transdiagnostic nature.

Therefore, it is essential to consider the broad impact of Emotional Deregulation across various mental health conditions.

While inattention is a common symptom in both ADHD and Emotional Deregulation, the research suggests that the connection between these conditions goes beyond this overlap.

Consequently, future research should explore particular aspects of Emotional Deregulation within the context of ADHD and potential differences between ADHD subtypes.

The findings highlight the importance of considering developmental periods when studying ADHD and Emotional Deregulation.

Emotion regulation abilities can change with age, and therefore, studies should use a broad age range when researching these conditions.

Conclusion

Dealing with emotional dysregulation in ADHD can be challenging but it's not insurmountable.

Recognizing the signs, seeking professional help, developing emotional regulation skills, implementing healthy lifestyle changes, and maintaining regular follow-ups can significantly assist in managing this aspect of ADHD.

With these steps, individuals with ADHD can navigate their emotional landscape more effectively, enhancing their quality of life.

If you need counseling or therapy for ADHD in Colorado, then contact Overcomers Counseling and schedule a time to talk.

Sources

https://psychiatry.ucsf.edu/sites/psych.ucsf.edu/files/EMOTION%20REGULATION%20SKILLS%20MANUAL.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9706824/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4282137/

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about ADHD

What does high functioning ADHD look like for women?

Women with high functioning ADHD may appear to manage their symptoms well but still struggle internally. They may have successful careers but struggle with time management, organization, and maintaining social relationships.

Is emotional dysregulation a core symptom of ADHD?

While not listed as a core symptom in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, research suggests that emotional dysregulation is a common and impactful aspect of ADHD.

What can untreated ADHD look like in women?

Untreated ADHD in women can lead to low self-esteem, mood swings, and difficulty focusing. It can also increase the risk of eating disorders, substance abuse, and other mental health issues.

What is Inattentive ADHD in Female Adults?

Inattentive type ADHD is characterized by difficulty paying attention, forgetfulness, and disorganization. Women with this type of ADHD may struggle with completing tasks, following instructions, and maintaining focus.

Can adults with ADHD experience emotional dysregulation?

Yes, both children and adults with ADHD can experience emotional dysregulation. However, the manifestations may differ, with adults often having more complex processes and coping mechanisms.

What are some resources for family members of addicts?

Some resources for family members of addicts include therapy, counseling, 12-step programs, and other support groups. It is important to seek out these resources to get the tools you need to deal with your loved one's addiction. You can also find help for yourself through these resources.