Myth-Busting ADHD and Emotional Sensitivity

Autistic burnout is often misunderstood or dismissed, leading to a lack of proper support. Many people mistake it for regular exhaustion or depression, but autistic burnout is a distinct experience caused by long-term masking, sensory overload, and social exhaustion. Let’s break down the myths and uncover the truth.

Here’s what you’ll find in this post:

1. Myth: “She’s just overreacting.” 

Fact: Emotional dysregulation is a key part of ADHD. Many ADHD individuals feel emotions more intensely and struggle to regulate them. It’s not an overreaction—it’s how the ADHD brain processes emotions. 

2. Myth: “She should just control her feelings.”  

Fact: Emotional regulation requires specific coping strategies. Expecting someone with ADHD to “just calm down” without tools or support is like expecting someone with poor vision to “just see better” without glasses. 

3. Myth: “If she’s emotional, it must be another condition—not ADHD.” 

Fact: While ADHD often coexists with anxiety or mood disorders, emotional sensitivity is a core part of ADHD itself. Girls with ADHD may cry easily, get frustrated quickly, or feel deeply affected by rejection and criticism. 

Why does this matter?
Recognising emotional sensitivity as part of ADHD allows for more understanding, self-compassion, and support. Instead of dismissing emotions as “too much,” creating healthy coping strategies and safe spaces for expression can help ADHD girls and women thrive.