An ADHD meltdown can look and feel very different from person to person, but generally speaking, they can appear to be chaotic and overwhelming. During an ADHD meltdown, an individual may become very emotional, often exhibiting signs of anger, frustration, and/or sadness. They may also become very overwhelmed, and unable to focus or concentrate on tasks. Often times, they will lose control of their impulses and act in a way that is out of character for them. Common signs of an ADHD meltdown can include: yelling, screaming, crying, throwing or breaking objects, lashing out at others, and/or running away.
In addition to the outward signs of an ADHD meltdown, the individual may also be experiencing some intense thoughts and emotions that are difficult to contain and manage. They may be unable to control their racing thoughts, and feel overwhelmed by the intensity of their emotions. They may also feel a great sense of shame and embarrassment for their behavior, as well as guilt for the distress they cause for others.
The key for managing an ADHD meltdown is recognizing the signs early and quickly, and intervening with calming strategies. Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, cognitive restructuring, and positive self-talk can all be used to help the individual gain control of their emotions and behavior. With the right support, an individual can learn to manage their ADHD meltdowns in a healthy and effective way.