ADHD in Women: The Hidden Struggle

For many women, ADHD is a hidden struggle that goes unrecognized for years. Unlike the hyperactive, impulsive behaviors often associated with boys, girls with ADHD frequently present with more subtle, internalized, and socially oriented symptoms, like losing track of thoughts in conversation, doodling instead of running around, or quietly feeling frustrated. These less disruptive behaviors are often overlooked, meaning many high-achieving girls go undiagnosed until adolescence or adulthood [1][3].

High-achieving women are particularly at risk for delayed diagnosis. Sophisticated masking and compensatory strategies like working harder, over-preparing, or carefully managing social interactions, can allow them to maintain academic and social success while quietly struggling internally [1]. The effort to “fit in” socially may lead to exhaustion, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, all while their ADHD symptoms remain invisible to teachers, family, or clinicians [1][2].

Research shows that diagnostic criteria, clinical practices, and gender stereotypes contribute to “underdiagnosis.” Most ADHD research historically focused on boys, meaning female presentations are often missed [2][3]. Studies indicate girls are typically referred and diagnosed years later than boys, despite early symptom onset. For example, one Scottish clinical study found females were referred at a median age of 19.7 versus 14.4 for males, and diagnosed at 20.2 versus 15.2, reflecting a five-year delay [5].

For women who have struggled silently for years, a diagnosis can be life-changing. Understanding their brain’s wiring provides validation, relief, and a path forward. Treatment, including therapy, coaching, and medication when appropriate, can help manage attention, organization, and emotional regulation. Women often report feeling empowered to embrace their strengths and adjust expectations for themselves, creating more balanced and fulfilling lives.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re spinning your wheels, overcompensating, or masking to keep up, you are not alone. Recognition and support can transform the way you understand yourself, your strengths, and your potential. ADHD in women is real, often overlooked, but absolutely addressable, with awareness, proper screening, and compassionate care [1][3][4][5].

References:

1. Williams T, Barclay I, Bevan-Jones R, et al. Reflections on the Manifestation of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Girls From Young Adults With Lived Experiences: A Qualitative Study. The British Journal of Psychiatry. 2025.

2. Lai MC, Lin HY, Ameis SH. Towards Equitable Diagnoses for Autism and Attention-Deficit/­Hyperactivity Disorder Across Sexes and Genders. Current Opinion in Psychiatry. 2022.

3. Hinshaw SP, Nguyen PT, O'Grady SM, Rosenthal EA. Annual Research Review: Attention-Deficit/­Hyperactivity Disorder in Girls and Women: Underrepresentation, Longitudinal Processes, and Key Directions. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, and Allied Disciplines. 2022.

4. Dalsgaard S, Thorsteinsson E, Trabjerg BB, et al. Incidence Rates and Cumulative Incidences of the Full Spectrum of Diagnosed Mental Disorders in Childhood and Adolescence. JAMA Psychiatry. 2020.

• 5. Maciver D, Singh Roy A, Johnston L, et al. Are We Getting Better at Identifying and Diagnosing Neurodivergent Girls and Women? Insights Into Sex Ratios and Age of Diagnosis From Clinical Population Data in Scotland. Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice. 2025.