Signs of ADHD in Women That Often Go Unnoticed

Women with ADHD often go unnoticed and undiagnosed for a multitude of reasons, including gender bias in research and diagnostic criteria, as well as societal stigma surrounding the presentation of ADHD symptoms. These factors contribute to a general lack of awareness and recognition of ADHD in women, leading to their symptoms being misinterpreted as personality traits rather than signs of ADHD.

Many women with ADHD exhibit behaviors such as perfectionism, people-pleasing, chronic overwhelm, and emotional dysregulation. Girls with ADHD may present as either hyperverbal or “day-dreamers,” and may struggle with forgetfulness, organization, motivation, and even sleep. These symptoms, often subtle, are easily dismissed or overlooked, especially when they don’t align with the stereotypical “male” image of ADHD that the medical field has been programmed to consider when diagnosing.

Societal expectations and gender roles further increase the likelihood that women and girls will develop masking skills to compensate for their executive functioning challenges. While boys may exhibit overt hyperactivity, girls may experience hyperactivity internally. Racing thoughts, restlessness at night, playing with their hair, or tapping feet and fingers are common signs of ADHD that are often interpreted as fidgeting or nervous habits rather than symptoms of a neurodevelopmental disorder. Over time, many women become experts at hiding these behaviors, often internalizing their struggles as personal failures when they can’t “keep up” with others.

This masking, combined with attempts to overcompensate, can cause ADHD in women to appear as anxiety or depression, leading to misdiagnosis. The lack of an accurate diagnosis increases the risk of developing other mental health challenges, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and even suicidal ideation. Living with undiagnosed ADHD impacts identity development and self-esteem and can take a serious toll on work performance, relationships, and overall well-being.

Understanding and addressing ADHD can be life-changing. Therapy, especially with a specialist who understands the unique ways ADHD manifests in women, can help in managing symptoms, building coping strategies, and enhancing emotional regulation. If you recognize these signs in yourself, consider connecting with a therapist who specializes in ADHD in women. You deserve support that acknowledges your unique experiences and empowers you to thrive.