Course Content
Overview of Emotional Dysregulation: Understanding How ADHD Affects Emotional Responses
Emotional dysregulation refers to difficulties in managing and responding to emotional experiences in a way that is considered typical or appropriate for the situation. For individuals with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), emotional dysregulation is a common and often challenging symptom. It can manifest in intense emotional reactions, difficulty calming down once upset, or an inability to manage feelings of frustration, anger, or excitement.Let’s break this down into key aspects of how ADHD affects emotional responses:
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Emotional Dysregulation: Understanding How ADHD Affects Emotional Responses

One of the hallmarks of ADHD is impulsivity, which can extend to emotional responses. People with ADHD might have trouble pausing before reacting emotionally, often acting on feelings without thinking about the consequences. This can lead to:

  • Overreaction to Minor Stressors: Small annoyances can lead to disproportionate emotional outbursts (e.g., snapping at a friend or colleague over something minor).

  • Difficulty Calming Down: After a strong emotional reaction, someone with ADHD may struggle to regulate their emotions and return to baseline. This can lead to prolonged emotional outbursts or a lingering sense of anger or frustration.

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