Navigating an ADHD meltdown (yours or someone else’s) is challenginganger generally occurs suddenly.

However, recognizing possible triggers and developing management strategies can help prevent episodes or reduce their intensity.

It is a major part of living with ADHD for both adults and children.

Frustrated man

Claudia Burlotti / Getty Images

This can create frustration, which is linked to outbursts and irritability.

What Can Trigger Anger in People With ADHD?

For people with ADHD, situations that are uncomfortable for others can trigger anger.

When possible, venture to minimize situations that provoke anger until effective management techniques are in place.

However, there are ways to manage it.

Counting, breathing, pinpointing triggers, and leaving a situation can help to prevent outbursts.

Shaw P, Stringaris A, Nigg J, Leibenluft E.Emotion dysregulation in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.Am J Psychiatry.

2014;171(3):276-293. doi:10.1176/appi.ajp.2013.13070966

CHADD.Understanding meltdowns: the ADHD volcano model.

CHADD.What to do when ADHD and ODD co-occur.

Replication and extension of a promising temperament profile approach to ADHD subtyping.Psychological Assessment.

Yale School of Medicine.Research note: irritability and ADHD medications.

2017;78(06):e648-e655.

2017;21(13):1105-1120.

2019;356:208-220. doi:10.1016/j.bbr.2018.08.023

Debros K, Willard C, Buck E.Easy mindfulness exercises for kids with ADHD.

CHADD.Relationships & social skills.

Addept.Why do I get so angry all the time?

American Psychological Association.Control anger before it controls you.