ADHD in Women: The Underdiagnosed Generation
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) has long been associated with hyperactive boys disrupting classrooms, but this outdated stereotype has left many women overlooked and underdiagnosed. For years, women have struggled silently, masking their symptoms and believing their challenges stem from personal failings rather than a neurological condition. Many women with ADHD grow up feeling “different” without understanding why, leading to struggles with self-esteem, anxiety, and burnout.
Why Is ADHD in Women Often Missed?
ADHD symptoms in women often present differently than in men. While boys are more likely to exhibit externalized behaviours, such as hyperactivity, women tend to experience more internalized symptoms like inattention, overwhelm, or emotional sensitivity. These subtler signs are frequently misinterpreted as anxiety, depression, or even personality traits like “daydreamy” or “scatterbrained.”
Common Signs of ADHD in Women
Chronic Overwhelm: Managing daily responsibilities feels exhausting, with a constant sense of being behind.
Forgetfulness & Disorganization: Struggling with keeping track of tasks, appointments, or personal belongings.
Masking Behaviours: Overcompensating through perfectionism, people-pleasing, or working excessively hard to hide struggles.
Emotional Sensitivity & Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD): Experiencing intense emotional reactions to criticism or perceived rejection.
Anxiety & Depression: Many women with ADHD are misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression, as they struggle to manage their symptoms without realizing the root cause.
Struggles with Self-Esteem: Years of undiagnosed ADHD can lead to self-doubt and feeling like you’re “not good enough.”
The Impact of Late Diagnosis
Many women don’t receive an ADHD diagnosis until adulthood, often after years of feeling misunderstood. A late diagnosis can bring a mix of emotions:
Relief in finally having an explanation,
Frustration for the missed support, and
Hope to move forward with better tools
Undiagnosed ADHD can impact various aspects of life, including:
Work & Career: Struggles with organization, time management, and focus can create challenges in the workplace.
Relationships: Forgetfulness, emotional sensitivity, and impulsivity can lead to misunderstandings and feelings of guilt or shame.
Self-Esteem: Years of being told to “try harder” or feeling like something is “wrong” can lead to chronic self-doubt.
Getting Support for ADHD
For women who have gone undiagnosed for years, receiving an ADHD diagnosis can be life-changing. Therapy, coaching, and medication (if needed) can provide the tools to manage symptoms effectively. Recognizing that ADHD is not a flaw but a different way of thinking is the first step toward self-acceptance and growth.
If you suspect you have ADHD, reaching out for support can help you better understand yourself, embrace your strengths, and develop strategies that work for your unique brain.
Final thoughts…
ADHD in women is often misunderstood and overlooked, but with the right support, you can navigate its challenges and embrace your strengths. Therapy provides a space to explore your experiences, develop personalized strategies, and build confidence in your abilities. You are not alone in this journey—understanding your ADHD is the first step toward thriving.
If you’re curious about how therapy can support you in managing ADHD as a woman, email me at hello@rosewelshcounselling.com or click HERE to book a free consultation. I’d be happy to help you explore approaches that empower you to live with greater clarity, balance, and self-compassion.
