What is ADHD burnout?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is classified as a neurological health condition affecting around 5% of children and 4% of adults in the UK. If you have ADHD, you may struggle to concentrate, find it hard to stay focused on tasks, feel restless much of the time, and even act impulsively. This ongoing effort to manage ADHD symptoms can affect both your emotional and physical wellbeing.

What is burnout?

Life is constantly moving, and for most of us, daily challenges and stressors can leave us feeling exhausted. However, when this stress becomes too much - and too often - it can lead to more serious health issues, such as burnout.

Dr Tom MacLaren, Consultant Psychiatrist, Re:Cognition Health, London, UK describes burnout as a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress.

"Unlike typical stress or feeling overtired (fatigue) - which can be alleviated with rest or relaxation - burnout is a more long-term condition," he says. "It can lead to a sensation of hopelessness, detachment and a decrease in performance and productivity."

People with ADHD often face ongoing struggles as they work to manage their symptoms - such as keeping focus, managing time, and regulating emotions.

"The constant effort required to keep up with these challenges can deplete your energy reserves more rapidly, increasing your likelihood of burnout," explains MacLaren. "ADHD burnout is often characterised by a heightened sense of frustration and emotional dysregulation."

This constant internal battle to manage ADHD symptoms adds a layer of complexity that sets it apart from general burnout.

The symptoms of ADHD burnout often overlap with those of ADHD itself. However, during burnout, they can become more intense, persistent, and hard to manage.

If you suspect you may have ADHD-related symptoms, it's important to book an appointment with your doctor to discuss them. Left untreated - or undertreated - ADHD can make these challenges even more difficult, especially if you're unaware of the cause or unsure how to manage them.

"Without proper management, you may find it even harder to cope with daily demands," warns MacLaren. "This could lead to heightened frustration, stress and a higher likelihood of experiencing burnout."

He adds that while ADHD symptoms are generally constant, burnout symptoms represent an escalation in severity and impact. Unlike other mental health conditions, ADHD burnout specifically stems from the cumulative effect of ADHD-related stressors.

"Proactive strategies include setting realistic goals, using organisational tools and building a strong support network," he advises. "Regularly practicing self-care, prioritising tasks and maintaining a healthy work-life balance can also play a crucial role in preventing burnout."

Taking care of your health is essential for everybody - especially when it comes to preventing burnout from mental and physical exhaustion. However, people with ADHD, need to be particularly mindful of this. If you're struggling, checking in with a healthcare professional can help you find the right support for recovery.