The link between ADHD, boredom & anxiety

If your child with ADHD seems more anxious, fidgety, or emotional when they're bored rather than busy, you're not imagining it. Under stimulation can trigger real anxiety in children (and adults) with ADHD.

Think of the ADHD brain like a car engine that needs to run at a certain speed to work smoothly. When there's not enough happening—during repetitive homework, waiting in line, or sitting through easy lessons—the engine starts sputtering. This creates an uncomfortable, restless feeling inside that your child experiences as anxiety.

Their brain is literally searching for something —anything —to engage with. When it can't find it, the nervous system becomes agitated.

Your child might appear upset or panicked, complain that things feel wrong, have trouble breathing or appear overly restless.

Whilst there are always times when we are not challenged enough, there are easy ways to help, such as using fidget breaks, allowing them to move while working, or having breaks where they can enjoy greater movement.

Most importantly, validate their experience and reassure them that you understand that their brain needs more at that time.

When your ADHD child appears anxious during boring situations, they're not overreacting. Their brain genuinely needs more stimulation to feel calm and regulated. Understanding this helps you support them better—and helps them understand themselves.