my emotions feel too big for small situations — is that an ADHD thing??

Strong emotional reactions to relatively small situations can be part of ADHD, but they are not specific to ADHD on their own. Clinically, it really depends on the full constellation of symptoms and the trajectory over time rather than any single feature in isolation. In ADHD, emotional dysregulation often shows up as fast, intense reactions that rise quickly and settle relatively quickly. People may feel disappointment, frustration, or rejection very strongly in the moment, even when they intellectually know the situation is minor. These reactions tend to be lifelong, noticeable from childhood, and occur across different settings. They are often linked to impulsivity, difficulty with self-regulation, and challenges in pausing before reacting. However, oversized emotional responses can also point to other conditions, like mood or anxiety disorders. Personality structure and attachment patterns can also influence emotional responses, particularly when reactions are closely tied to interpersonal triggers or fears of rejection or abandonment. It is also common for ADHD to coexist with other conditions, which can amplify emotional intensity. Ultimately, big emotions do not automatically point to one diagnosis. Understanding the pattern over time is what clarifies whether this reflects ADHD-related emotional dysregulation, another condition, or a combination of factors.