ADHD in girls and women is often missed or mistaken for something else. Here’s how it can look different, and why that matters.
Why girls are diagnosed later
Girls with ADHD are more likely to have the inattentive kind: drifting off, losing track, struggling to organise. These difficulties are quieter than hyperactive behaviour, so they’re easier for parents and teachers to miss. Many girls also work very hard to fit in, which can hide how much they’re struggling.
How ADHD can show up in women
- Feeling constantly overwhelmed by everyday tasks, such as admin, housework or planning
- A busy, restless mind rather than physical restlessness
- Strong emotions and sensitivity to criticism or rejection
- Burnout from years of trying to keep up
- Anxiety or low mood that hasn’t fully improved with treatment
Hormones can make a difference
Many women notice their symptoms change during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and perimenopause. Tell your clinician about any patterns you’ve noticed, as this can help with assessment and treatment.
Getting the right assessment
A good assessment takes time to understand your whole history, including how you coped at school and the strategies you’ve used since. It also considers other conditions that can look similar or come alongside ADHD, such as anxiety, depression or autism.
If any of this sounds familiar, try our free self-check or book a free call to talk it through.