ADHD in Women

By Sarah Nauyokas

ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in the United States. It is typically characterized by difficulty focusing, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity. However, the condition can look very different from person to person. While ADHD affects both men and women, research has shown that women are frequently misdiagnosed, underdiagnosed, or not diagnosed until adulthood.  Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, a non-profit located in Los Angeles, California, reports that “Only 6% of girls ages 3 to 17 are diagnosed with ADHD, compared to 13% of boys in that age group”.

The roots of this issue lie in history. When ADHD was first researched and described, most studies focused on young boys who displayed external symptoms like restlessness or disruptive behavior. This early understanding shaped how the disorder was defined and how it is recognized today. As a result, doctors and educators became more familiar with the “classic” presentation of ADHD, the hyperactive type that fits boys more than girls.

However, many girls and women with ADHD show more internalized symptoms, such as daydreaming or struggling with organization. These traits are often misdiagnosed. Many women spend years without the correct diagnosis. Simon Kitson, an Educational Psychologist based in Bristol who specializes in working with neurodivergent children, explains that sometimes when girls do display symptoms of ADHD, they are often excused by harmful mislabeled, such as “chatty girl”, “daydreamer”, “hormonal”, or “gender based anxiety”.

ADHD diagnosis can be life-altering, and being undiagnosed can lead to long-term cumulative adversity. Recognizing how ADHD manifests differently in women is essential for better awareness and early diagnosis. With more inclusive research, better screening tools, and open discussion, future generations of girls and women may not have to wait decades to be understood.

Resources:

CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder): https://chadd.org/

ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association): https://add.org/

Sources:

“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).” NHS, www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.

Kitson, Simon. “The Role of ‘Birthdate Bias’ in the Assessment of Children with ADHD at School.” Qbtech Blog, 15 Dec. 2022, www.qbtech.com/blog/the-role-of-birthdate-bias-in-the-assessment-of-children-with-adhd-at-school/. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.

“Why ADHD Goes Undetected in Girls.” Cedars-Sinai Blog, 5 June 2024, www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/why-adhd-goes-undetected-in-girls.html. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.