ADHD in women
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is becoming more commonly diagnosed and recognised, and affects people of all ages and genders. However, the way ADHD presents itself in women can be different from men, and this can impact diagnosis and treatment.
According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the UK, ADHD affects 3-4% of adults. However, there are no precise figures on the percentage of women affected.
There is still a long way to go in understanding the science behind ADHD and gender, but here are some ways in which ADHD can look different for women.
Symptoms of ADHD in women
While the symptoms of ADHD can vary widely among individuals, and we are not here to generalise, some of the most common symptoms in women include:
Emotional dysregulation, including mood swings, irritability, and sensitivity
Difficulty with organisation, time management, and completing tasks
Forgetfulness, including frequently losing items or forgetting appointments
Inattention or distractibility, particularly in noisy or chaotic environments
Impulsivity, including interrupting others or acting without thinking
Difficulty with social cues, leading to problems with relationships or social interactions
Women with ADHD may also experience other symptoms less commonly associated with the disorder, such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Compared to symptoms in men
While there is a significant overlap in ADHD symptoms between men and women, there are some notable differences. For example, men with ADHD are more likely to exhibit hyperactivity, such as fidgeting, restlessness, and excessive talking. On the other hand, women may be more likely to experience emotional dysregulation, such as mood swings and sensitivity.
A study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders found that women with ADHD reported more difficulties with executive functioning, including organisation and planning, than men (Gershon et al., 2018). Another study published in the Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology found that girls with ADHD showed more significant impairment in working memory and attentional control than boys with the condition (Karalunas et al., 2014). Clinical observations from healthcare providers who work with individuals with ADHD also suggest that women may struggle more with organisation and forgetfulness than men.
Challenges in diagnosis
Because ADHD symptoms in women can present differently than in men, diagnosis can be challenging. Women with ADHD may be misdiagnosed with depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions with similar symptoms. Additionally, women may be better at masking or compensating for their symptoms, leading to a delay in diagnosis.
There are a few potential reasons why women with ADHD may be better at masking their symptoms than men. One reason may be gender expectations. Women are often expected to be more organised, detail-oriented, and emotionally controlled than men. This societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles may lead women with ADHD to work harder to appear "normal" and mask their symptoms. Another potential reason may be socialisation. Girls are often socialised differently than boys, emphasising cooperation, compliance, and social skills. Girls may learn to internalise their ADHD symptoms and conceal them from others to avoid criticism or rejection. Diagnostic bias may also play a role. Evidence suggests that ADHD is underdiagnosed in girls and women and that healthcare providers may be less likely to recognise ADHD symptoms in girls and women due to gender stereotypes and bias.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes throughout a woman's life can also impact ADHD symptoms. For example, many women with ADHD report increased symptoms during their menstrual cycle or perimenopause. Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels can exacerbate mood swings, impulsivity, and other symptoms.
Additionally, women with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that can cause mood swings, irritability, and other symptoms that overlap with ADHD.
ADHD in women is still a very new concept for some, but with a sharp increase in diagnoses or recognition of symptoms over the last few years, awareness is growing.
Only The Rebels was created to drive awareness of ADHD and in women in particular because that's our authentic experience. However, much work is still needed to better understand this unique set of traits and neurodiversity across all genders.
Find our more about how to manage some of the challenges that can come with being a woman with ADHD in our brain farts section here
Is ADHD less common in women than in men?
Historically, ADHD was thought to be more common in men, but recent research has shown that the prevalence is more balanced between the genders. However, women may be underdiagnosed due to differences in symptom presentation and societal expectations.
How do ADHD symptoms differ between women and men?
While there is significant overlap in ADHD symptoms between men and women, some differences exist. Women with ADHD may experience more emotional dysregulation, difficulty with organisation, and forgetfulness. Men with ADHD, on the other hand, may exhibit more hyperactivity, such as fidgeting and restlessness.
Why is ADHD often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed in women?
ADHD can be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed in women due to differences in symptom presentation and societal expectations. Women may be better at masking their symptoms, and healthcare providers may be less likely to recognise ADHD symptoms in women due to gender stereotypes and bias.
How do hormonal changes affect ADHD symptoms in women?
Hormonal changes throughout a woman's life, such as during the menstrual cycle or perimenopause, can impact ADHD symptoms. Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels can exacerbate mood swings, impulsivity, and other symptoms. Women with ADHD are also more likely to be diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which can cause overlapping symptoms.
Can ADHD in women be treated?
Yes, ADHD can be effectively treated in women through a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. It's essential for women with ADHD to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses their unique symptoms and needs.
How can I help a woman with ADHD in my life?
Supporting a woman with ADHD involves understanding her unique challenges, being patient, and offering encouragement. Educate yourself about ADHD in women, listen to her experiences, and be open to learning about her specific needs. Encourage her to seek professional help if needed, and offer assistance with organisation and time management when appropriate. Most importantly, be a source of empathy and support.
At what age can women be diganosed with ADHD?
ADHD can be diagnosed at any age, but it is typically identified during childhood. However, due to differences in symptom presentation and societal expectations, women with ADHD may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood.
Can pregnancy affect ADHD symptoms in women?
Pregnancy can affect ADHD symptoms in women due to hormonal changes and the added stress of managing pregnancy. Some women may experience an increase in symptoms, while others may find their symptoms temporarily improve
Is there a connection between ADHD and eating disorders in women?
Research has shown that there may be a connection between ADHD and eating disorders, particularly in women. Studies suggest that women with ADHD are at a higher risk of developing eating disorders, such as binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, or anorexia nervosa. The impulsivity and emotional dysregulation associated with ADHD may contribute to disordered eating patterns.
