Navigating Social Challenges with ADHD: How PEERS® Training Can Make a Difference

For people with ADHD, social situations can sometimes feel tricky. Maybe it’s hard to stay focused in a conversation, or you’re not sure how to respond to someone’s body language or tone of voice. These challenges can lead to awkward moments, misunderstandings, or even struggles to form lasting friendships.

But here’s the thing—social skills aren’t just something you’re born with. They can be learned and practiced, just like any other skill. That’s where PEERS® (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) training comes in.

Why Social Communication Feels Hard with ADHD

ADHD affects attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation—three things that play a big role in social interactions. Some common challenges people with ADHD face include:

• Accidentally interrupting others because it’s hard to wait for your turn to speak.

• Zoning out in a conversation and missing important details.

• Struggling to read between the lines in social situations.

• Feeling overwhelmed in group settings or unsure how to start conversations.

These difficulties don’t mean people with ADHD can’t connect with others. It just means they might need some extra tools to feel confident in social situations.

What Is PEERS® Training?

PEERS® is a social skills program developed at UCLA that helps teens and adults build real-world relationship skills. Initially designed for individuals with autism, it’s also been proven to help people with ADHD.

Here’s what makes PEERS® unique:

1. Step-by-Step Strategies
   PEERS® teaches practical strategies for common social challenges. Want to join a group conversation? Struggling with teasing? Not sure how to invite someone to hang out? There’s a clear, simple process for each situation.

2. Learning by Doing
   Instead of just talking about social skills, PEERS® gets you practising them through role-playing and group exercises. You can try new approaches in a supportive space, get feedback, and build confidence.

3. Support from a Coach
   A parent or mentor often acts as a social coach for younger participants. They help reinforce the skills outside sessions and offer encouragement in real-life situations.

4. Tailored for ADHD
   PEERS® recognises that ADHD can make certain aspects of socialising more challenging. The program addresses explicitly issues like staying on topic, managing impulsivity, and recognising when someone is interested in what you’re saying.

What Are the Benefits?

PEERS® isn’t just about learning social skills—it’s about transforming how you approach relationships. Here are some ways it helps:

• Improves Communication: Learn how to start, join, and keep conversations going.

• Boosts Confidence: Gain the tools you need to navigate social situations without second-guessing yourself.

• Builds Stronger Friendships: Learn how to create and maintain meaningful connections.

• Reduces Social Anxiety: Practice skills in a safe environment so socializing feels less intimidating.

Real Stories, Real Impact

One of the most rewarding parts of PEERS® training is seeing the change it brings. Participants often start out feeling unsure or frustrated and leave with a whole new outlook on social interactions. They’ve got the skills, the confidence, and—most importantly—the belief that they can build connections and thrive socially.

Let’s Get Started

If social communication feels like a hurdle because of ADHD, you’re not alone—and there’s a way forward. At Strivesocial, we offer personalised coaching using the PEERS® program to help people of all ages develop the skills they need to connect with others.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Let’s work together to turn social challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.

Research on the effectiveness of the PEERS® program for people with co-occurring autism and ADHD is available on our current research page.