Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. Yet, in women – and girls – ADHD often goes undiagnosed.
In children 17 and younger, 13% of boys are diagnosed with ADHD, compared with just 6% of girls. This doesn’t necessarily mean that ADHD is less common in girls; data suggests that women and girls with ADHD often don’t get a clinical diagnosis.
Fortunately, getting a diagnosis and receiving treatment can help you manage your symptoms effectively and move toward self-acceptance.
Why is ADHD often misdiagnosed in women?
ADHD in women and girls often goes undiagnosed — or it’s misdiagnosed as another condition. But why?
“ADHD is often misdiagnosed or not diagnosed in women due to differences in how symptoms manifest. Women might exhibit internal struggles rather than external hyperactivity, leading to under-recognition,” says Kristian Wilson, a licensed mental health counselor with Grow Therapy. “Societal expectations and gender bias can also contribute to this misdiagnosis.”
Women might exhibit internal struggles rather than external hyperactivity, leading to under-recognition.
- Kristian Wilson, LMHC
Experts have identified a few different factors that contribute to the underdiagnosis of ADHD in women:
Gender bias in ADHD research: Up until fairly recently, ADHD was thought only to affect boys. As a result, research on ADHD centered mostly on males, and there was little information on how it affected women and girls specifically.
Symptom differences: Women and girls with ADHD are more likely to have inattentive symptoms — less obvious to outsiders — than hyperactive symptoms (more evident to outsiders).
Gender bias in clinicians: Because of the widespread myth that ADHD only — or mostly — affects men, many therapists and psychiatrists don’t screen for ADHD symptoms in women and girls.
Myths among teachers and parents: Teachers and parents often recognize ADHD symptoms in children, leading to the children being screened for ADHD by a clinician. Because of the myth of ADHD mostly affecting boys — and because girls are likely to show less stereotypical symptoms — girls may be less likely to be screened.
Missed diagnosis: Women with ADHD are more likely to experience co-occurring conditions, like anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and mood disorders. Clinicians might attribute ADHD symptoms to those comorbid conditions when their patients have both disorders.
Masking: Some research suggests that women with ADHD are better at masking their symptoms. It’s unclear why this is, but cultural expectations — like the idea that messiness and disorganization are “unladylike” — may pressure girls to hide their symptoms.
When it comes to ADHD, early diagnosis (being diagnosed in childhood) can be beneficial. The “gender gap” in ADHD diagnosis is concerning because many women and girls are not receiving the needed treatment.
“Late or missed ADHD diagnosis in women can result in challenges such as low self-esteem, difficulties in academic or work settings, strained relationships, and mental health issues,” Wilson notes. “It may also delay effective treatment, hindering personal and professional growth.”
Women who receive a late diagnosis of ADHD often experience adverse outcomes like substance abuse, interpersonal conflict, and feelings of inadequacy because of their symptoms.
What are the symptoms of ADHD in women?
Women can experience the same symptoms of ADHD as men. However, women are more likely to have inattentive symptoms than hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), used to diagnose mental conditions, has identified three subtypes of ADHD. These subtypes are:
- Inattentive type: Characterized by being easily distracted, having poor focus, and lacking organizational skills.
- Hyperactive-impulsive type: Characterized by fidgeting, constant talking, acting impulsively without thinking, and impatience.
- Combination type: A combination of inattentive and hyperactive.
Your symptoms will differ depending on the type of ADHD you have. Because women are more likely to have inattentive ADHD, they tend to have more inattentive symptoms.
Signs of ADHD in women
The signs of ADHD depend on the type of ADHD that you have. In adult women with ADHD, symptoms of inattention might be more common than hyperactive symptoms, but it’s possible to experience both.
But in general, the signs of ADHD include:
- Difficulty focusing
- Being easily distracted
- Being disorganized
- Overlooking details
- Difficulty starting or completing tasks
- Being easily bored
- Talking over people in conversation
- Daydreaming
- Difficulty with time management and punctuality
- Forgetfulness
- Feeling restless
- Making “careless mistakes”
- Procrastinating often
- Rushing through tasks
- Acting impulsively
- Lacking motivation
ADHD may also lead to health issues, including:
- Sleep issues
- Depressive disorders
- Anxiety
- Low self-esteem
- Fatigue
- Substance use disorders
ADHD may also affect your relationships and social interactions, especially when untreated. Girls with ADHD may be more likely to experience negative social pressures and interpersonal conflict with friends or family.
What should a woman do if she suspects she has ADHD?
If you suspect you have ADHD — or that your child has ADHD — it’s important to talk with a healthcare professional who specializes in the condition. This can be a psychotherapist, psychiatrist, or psychiatric nurse with training and experience in treating ADHD.
From there, you can put together a treatment plan. This may include therapy, medication, support groups, and/or self-care strategies.
“Starting with a medical professional familiar with ADHD is ideal,” Wilson says. “However, if mental health care is inaccessible, self-help resources, books, and online support groups can provide information and coping strategies. While not a replacement for professional care, they can be a supportive starting point.”
How is ADHD treated in women?
While ADHD can’t be “cured,” it’s possible to manage your symptoms. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the necessary first step in helping you find quality ADHD treatment. ADHD in women and girls is usually treated the same way as in men and boys.
ADHD treatments include:
- Medication, which can consist of stimulant-based and non-stimulant medication
- Therapy, which can include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Skills training, which can help you manage day-to-day tasks effectively
People with ADHD often benefit from learning and practicing certain skills, such as:
- Organizational skills
- Establishing routines
- Time management skills
- Avoiding sensory overload
- Stress management
A small 2020 study examined a tailored ADHD intervention that helped adult women learn the above skills. It found that it improved their symptoms and increased their executive function.
Therapy for ADHD
Counseling with a licensed therapist can help improve your overall quality of life.
“Therapy can offer women with ADHD valuable tools for managing symptoms, improving executive functioning skills, building self-esteem, and addressing emotional well-being,” Wilson says. “Techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness can be particularly beneficial.”
Therapy for ADHD can involve:
- Psychoeducation (learning more about your condition and symptoms)
- Building soft skills, including organizational or time-management skills
- Identifying and addressing unhelpful patterns in your thinking or behavior
Additionally, therapy often involves working on collateral challenges from ADHD, such as self-esteem or relationship issues.
Therapy can offer women with ADHD valuable tools for managing symptoms, improving executive functioning skills, building self-esteem, and addressing emotional well-being.
- Kristian Wilson, LMHC
How do I find a therapist for ADHD?
Grow Therapy’s search tool makes it easier to find a therapist for ADHD. Simply select the “ADHD” option under the “Specialization” drop-down menu. Our filters allow you to search for a therapist who operates in your state and takes your insurance.
Our filters will give you a curated list of ADHD therapists who fit your specifications. You can view their profiles and availability, and can book an appointment directly through our system when you find a therapist that resonates with you.
Our search tool also allows you to find providers that offer medication management, such as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) and psychiatrists, who can prescribe medication for ADHD as well.
Find an ADHD therapist
What are good coping mechanisms for ADHD?
Learning healthy coping strategies for ADHD can also make a world of difference. These skills can be learned and practiced through therapy, skills training, and ADHD coaching — but you can also learn these skills on your own.
You can try the following:
- Learn about your condition. Educating yourself about ADHD and its effects can help you identify and understand your symptoms as well as your strengths.
- Manage stress. Stress may worsen your ADHD symptoms and overall mood. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation.
- Get enough sleep. Poor sleep, which is common in people with ADHD, can have negative effects on your physical or mental health. You may feel much better by practicing good sleep hygiene and establishing a regular sleep schedule.
- Journal regularly. Keeping a journal can help you manage stress, process emotions, and track the most effective productivity strategies.
- Exercise frequently. Physical activity can boost mood and increase executive function. Find a type of movement you enjoy, whether walking, jogging, dancing, or something else.
- Give yourself time to plan. Set aside specific times for planning and organizing tasks. This can help you feel less overwhelmed.
- Join a support group. Online and in-person ADHD support groups can help you find a sense of community while offering encouragement.
- Embrace the benefits of ADHD. Instead of seeing ADHD as a weakness, notice the strengths it brings you. For example, ADHD hyperfocus can be very useful.
Remember, everyone’s journey with ADHD is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. “Embrace your strengths, seek support, and explore strategies that work for you,” Wilson suggests. It’s essential to remain patient with yourself and seek what best supports your unique needs.
Treating ADHD with Grow Therapy
In women and girls, ADHD often goes undiagnosed. This is partly because of the myth that only men and boys have the condition and partly because the symptoms of ADHD can show up differently in females.
“Remember that you’re not alone in this journey,” Wilson says. “ADHD doesn’t define your worth or potential. With determination and self-compassion, you can navigate challenges and harness your unique abilities for personal growth and success.”
Although ADHD symptoms can be challenging to manage, many treatment options can improve your symptoms and help you cope better with the demands of everyday life. Speaking with a therapist who specializes in ADHD may be very helpful. Use our search tool today to find a therapist suited to you.
