Originally, ADHD was thought to only affect children and persist into adulthood in some cases. Recent research shows that children do not “outgrow” their symptoms, but these are carried into adulthood. However, adult ADHD remains an undiagnosed and untreated population, especially in girls and women, which makes it difficult for women with ADHD to find appropriate support. Therefore, more education and awareness are needed for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Below we will discuss gender differences in ADHD, symptoms of ADHD and what can be done to treat ADHD symptoms in women. 

ADHD in adults

According to research, 2.5% of the adult population has ADHD. Adult ADHD symptoms interfere with relationships, school and work performance and lead to feelings of low self-esteem, self-confidence and sleep difficulties. From research, about 80% of adult ADHD occurs together with other mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety, substance use and personality disorders. 

ADHD and gender differences

In children, ADHD is diagnosed after a referral from caregivers or teachers. Boys are more likely to be referred for treatment since they present primarily with external symptoms such as hyperactivity, which is more noticeable to others. Conversely, females with ADHD are more likely to present with inattentive symptoms and internalise their difficulties. Equally, this leaves more time to develop coping strategies to mask core symptoms associated with ADHD. 

Girls meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD at just under half the rates of boys, which becomes closer to equal by adulthood. Due to undiagnosed and untreated ADHD, symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety can rise. 

Symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity

• extremely impatient

• irrational and impulsive acts without thinking of the consequences

• difficulties in waiting for their turn or waiting for the other person to finish their sentences

• frequently interrupting activities or conversations

Symptoms of inattention 

• not paying attention to details and making careless mistakes 

• gets bored easily when doing something that they are not interested in 

• jumping from one activity to the next without finishing 

• frequently daydreaming 

• slow in completing tasks

• difficulties in completing tasks on time

• doesn’t follow instructions

• avoids tasks that require mental concentration, such as puzzles or reading 

• slow information processing 

• misplaces things frequently 

Arula Counselling integrates creative, psychodynamic, mindfulness and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) approaches with a focus on neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed care. 

What causes ADHD? 

The cause of ADHD is unknown and depends on each individual’s circumstances, such as the environment and genetics. ADHD usually first appears between the ages of 3-6 but may be left unnoticed because of a proper lack of education and knowledge in those around children. 

How is ADHD diagnosed in women? 

ADHD is a chronic condition that does not go away but can be mediated with proper support, such as therapy and medication. This needs careful assessment and diagnosis since there is no one way to diagnose ADHD. If you think you may have ADHD, you can start to note down your symptoms. Consult your GP or a psychiatrist, or get help from a therapist to help you understand your symptoms. It is important to note that not all symptoms will be ADHD, which requires careful consideration from a medical professional to rule out other conditions. 

What are some ADHD symptoms in women? 

Girls are more likely to display inattention as the predominant symptom, which is more likely to carry into adulthood. Occurring symptoms in women can be mood and anxiety and personality disorders which accompany female ADHD. This would require a proper assessment and diagnosis for awareness and clarity, given that there is a high risk for self-harm in females with ADHD.

Some symptoms of ADHD in women can lead to unhealthy or dysfunctional relationships, poor attendance or productivity at work, low self-esteem and self-confidence and difficulties in getting tasks done. Some symptoms in women might be: 

• mood swings 

• sensitivity

• impulsivity

• chronic stress 

• disorganisation and keeping with the time 

• chronic procrastination 

• difficulties multitasking

• restlessness

• daydreaming and inattentiveness

• difficulties in money-management

• forgetfulness

ADHD support for women in Berlin

ADHD support will help you cope with the symptoms and better understand yourself and your needs. ADHD support, such as counselling and medication, allows you to alleviate symptoms and learn how to better manage these, leading to improved relationships, work performance, and quality of life. 

Counselling 

Talking and creating awareness of yourself can help you manage day-to-day activities and create structure. Coming up with a format that is needed specifically for your needs and assessing what works for you. This can vary greatly, depending on a case-by-case basis. 

Music therapy 

In addition to talking, music therapy can help access our inner resources through creative means since not everything can be expressed in words. Music can help to alleviate anxiety and find ease and understanding. Because music activates our whole brain, it can help to shut the wired brain off from interfering thoughts to focus on the present moment.

If you would like to get more information on ADHD support or would like to schedule a consultation call, get in touch with me below. I look forward to hearing from you.

Language: Sex and gender exist on a spectrum. The term “women” referred to in this article reflects the term assigned at birth. However, your gender identity may not align with this category.

Please note: This is for educational purposes only and is not to substitute a therapeutic relationship with a mental health professional. If you are in a mental health crisis, please call 112 or your country's crisis line, where professional mental health workers can help you.

References

Biederman, J. et al. (2002). Influence of gender on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children referred to a psychiatric clinic. American Journal of Psychiatry, 159, 36–42.

Davies, W. (2014). Sex differences in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Candidate genetic and endocrine mechanisms. Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 35, 331-346.

Hinshaw, S. P. et al. (2021) Annual Research-Review: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in girls and women: underrepresentation, longitudinal processes, and key directions. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.

Hinshaw, S.P., and Scheffler, R.M. (2014). The ADHD explosion: Myths, medication, money, and today’s push for performance. New York: Oxford University Press.

Katzman, M.A., Bilkey, T.S., Chokka, P.R. et al. Adult ADHD and comorbid disorders: clinical implications of a dimensional approach. BMC Psychiatry 17, 302 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-017-1463-3

Nerenberg, J. (2020) Divergent Mind: Thriving in a World that Wasn’t Designed for You.