When you hear the term ADHD, you might picture a hyperactive child who can’t sit still or struggles to focus. But ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) doesn’t always look like that. For many women, the condition goes undiagnosed for years, often because their symptoms present differently or are misunderstood. 

Women with ADHD are more likely to experience chronic overwhelm, emotional dysregulation, and intense feelings of underachievement — despite working hard to stay on top of responsibilities. So, how does ADHD actually present in women? 

Women with ADHD often face unique challenges, largely due to hormonal changes, societal pressures, and misdiagnoses. They may not display the classic signs of hyperactivity and impulsivity. Instead, symptoms like forgetfulness, disorganisation, and emotional intensity take centre stage. Many women only realise they have ADHD in adulthood, often after their children are diagnosed or when they seek help for anxiety or depression. 

In this article, we’ll break down the specific signs, symptoms, and challenges associated with ADHD in women.

• How ADHD symptoms differ between women and men
• Common signs of ADHD in women across different life stages
• Why ADHD often goes undiagnosed in women
• The impact of ADHD on daily life and relationships
• How diagnosis and treatment can help
• Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs)
• Information on how KPI:Access can provide professional ADHD assessments

ADHD is often divided into three main subtypes: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. While men and boys are more likely to show hyperactive-impulsive behaviours, women frequently exhibit symptoms related to inattention. This leads to differences in how ADHD manifests and how others perceive it.

Women with ADHD may struggle with tasks that require organisation, sustained attention, or working memory. Common symptoms include:

• Frequently losing keys, phones, or important documents
• Forgetting appointments or deadlines
• Starting multiple projects but rarely finishing them
• Difficulty focusing on conversations or instructions
• Mental exhaustion from constant internal chatter

These symptoms can be mistaken for “being scatterbrained” or “lazy,” leading to feelings of shame and self-doubt.

Many women with ADHD experience heightened emotions. Small setbacks may feel overwhelming, and they often have difficulty regulating feelings of frustration or anger. This emotional sensitivity can strain personal and professional relationships.

Women often learn to “mask” their ADHD symptoms by overcompensating. They may become perfectionists, working tirelessly to avoid criticism or judgement. This can lead to burnout and mental health struggles like anxiety and depression.

ADHD symptoms in women can shift and intensify during key hormonal changes. Here’s how ADHD might present during different life stages:

In girls, ADHD often shows up as daydreaming, forgetfulness, or difficulty following instructions. Teachers may overlook these behaviours because they’re less disruptive than hyperactivity. As a result, many girls go undiagnosed.

Teenage girls with ADHD may become more aware of their difficulties, especially as academic and social pressures increase. Symptoms might include:

• Struggling with time management and study habits.
• Forgetting homework or missing deadlines.
• Emotional outbursts during stressful situations.

Many women first seek a diagnosis in adulthood, often triggered by life changes such as entering the workforce, becoming a parent, or experiencing hormonal shifts. Common struggles include:

• Feeling overwhelmed by household and work responsibilities.
• Chronic procrastination.
• Difficulty balancing family, career, and social commitments.
• Increased emotional sensitivity, particularly during PMS or menopause.

The diagnostic gap exists due to several factors:

1. Gender Stereotypes: ADHD is still largely seen as a “boy’s condition.” Girls and women may not fit the stereotypical image of someone with ADHD, causing their symptoms to be dismissed.
2. Comorbidity with Other Conditions: Women with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or borderline personality disorder. This can mask the underlying ADHD.
3. Societal Expectations: Women are often expected to be organised, nurturing, and emotionally stable. Struggling with executive function may lead to guilt, shame, and attempts to hide their difficulties.

ADHD affects nearly every aspect of a woman’s life, including her career, relationships, and mental health.

At work, women with ADHD might excel in creative, high-energy roles but struggle with administrative tasks or deadlines. They may face criticism for appearing disorganised or unreliable, which can damage their self-esteem.

Emotional dysregulation and forgetfulness can create misunderstandings with partners, friends, and family members. Women with ADHD may feel chronically misunderstood, leading to conflicts and isolation.

The emotional toll of undiagnosed ADHD can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. However, with proper support and treatment, many women find significant relief from these secondary issues.

An accurate diagnosis can be life-changing for women with ADHD. Treatment plans may include:

• Therapy: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps manage negative thought patterns and improve time management skills.
• Medication: Stimulants or non-stimulant medications can improve focus and reduce impulsivity.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Strategies like creating routines, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and using reminders can make daily life more manageable.

At KPI:Access, our experienced specialists provide thorough ADHD assessments designed to identify symptoms and recommend personalised treatment options.

At KPI:Access, we specialise in accessible, affordable ADHD and ASD assessments for both children and adults. Led by Chinwe Osuchukwu, a consultant with over 13 years of experience in neurodevelopmental disorders, our service prioritises thorough evaluations and personalised care.

What You Can Expect

• Fast Appointments: Book your assessment and be seen by our clinical team within days.
• No GP Referral Needed: You can self-refer for an ADHD or ASD assessment.
• Comprehensive Evaluation: Our specialists take the time to fully understand your challenges and recommend tailored support strategies.
• Inclusive Approach: We operate with a no-exclusion policy, meaning every person who books an appointment receives an assessment.

Dr. Chinwe Osuchukwu, our lead clinician, has extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD, autism, and other neurodevelopmental conditions. Her compassionate approach ensures that every patient feels heard and supported.

Take the First Step

If you’re struggling with ADHD symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Contact KPI:Access today to book your assessment and start your journey towards a more manageable, fulfilling life.