ADHD in Women

Psychiatry once viewed ADHD as mainly a boys' issue, but research and real-life stories have flipped that script. While women still aren't diagnosed as often, the gap between men and women with ADHD has been closing fast in recent years.

ADHD is often seen as a childhood disorder, but its impact extends far beyond the school years, affecting 5-8% of kids and lingering into adulthood for many. Yet, when it comes to recognizing ADHD in girls, we're missing the mark. Girls are diagnosed at half the rate of boys, and this gap only begins to close in adulthood, where men and women are diagnosed at similar rates.

Why the discrepancy? ADHD often presents differently in girls, who are more likely to experience the inattentive type rather than the hyperactive-impulsive type seen more frequently in boys. A girl quietly struggling with focus or organization may not disrupt the classroom, making her symptoms easier to overlook by teachers and parents alike.

For many women, the realization that they might have ADHD comes later in life, often triggered by significant life changes—starting college, getting married, having children, or even managing increasingly complex household finances. Women might also seek help for anxiety or depression, conditions that frequently co-occur with or mimic ADHD. It’s only after further evaluation that the underlying ADHD is finally identified.

So, why is ADHD in women so often missed? Many women with ADHD compensate by overworking, staying up late, or sacrificing their free time to catch up, leading to exhaustion and burnout. This constant struggle can strain relationships, particularly when women carry a disproportionate share of childcare and housework.

What can we do? A thorough evaluation is essential to accurately diagnose ADHD, especially when other conditions are involved. Treating co-occurring conditions simultaneously can greatly enhance the effectiveness of interventions. If you’re concerned about ADHD and its impact on your life, reach out to us today.

Let’s find the answers together.