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ADHD in Women: The Hidden Signs No One Talks About

Think ADHD only looks like hyper boys bouncing off classroom walls? Think again. For decades, ADHD in women has been overlooked, misunderstood, or misdiagnosed—often mistaken for anxiety, mood disorders, or simply “burnout.”

This article explores how ADHD presents differently in women, why so many are diagnosed later in life, and what steps you can take if things just aren’t adding up.

Why ADHD in Women Often Goes Undetected

ADHD symptoms in women tend to be more subtle and internalised. While boys often exhibit hyperactivity and disruptive behaviour, girls and women may present with:

  • Daydreaming or appearing “spaced out”
  • Perfectionism or overachieving to mask difficulty
  • Chronic forgetfulness or disorganisation
  • Emotional overwhelm or mood swings
  • Constant overthinking and people-pleasing

According to the NICE ADHD guidelines, women are less likely to be referred for ADHD assessments, even when their symptoms cause significant distress.

Key Signs of ADHD in Women

Here are some of the most commonly reported—yet overlooked—signs of ADHD in adult women:

  • Time blindness: always late or losing track of time
  • Rejection sensitivity: intense fear of criticism or disapproval
  • Difficulty finishing tasks or jumping between projects
  • Emotional dysregulation or “spiralling” under pressure
  • Executive dysfunction: struggling with prioritising, planning, or organisation
  • “Masking” symptoms to appear more organised or in control than you feel

Many women internalise these struggles and blame themselves, often thinking, “I should be able to handle this.”

What’s Masking—and Why Women Do It So Well

Masking is the act of consciously or unconsciously hiding ADHD-related difficulties to appear “normal.” This might include overcompensating at work, pushing through exhaustion, or copying the habits of organised friends or colleagues.

Over time, masking can lead to exhaustion, burnout, and even breakdowns. It’s one of the key reasons many women are only diagnosed in adulthood—often after years of misdiagnosis with anxiety or depression.

What the Research Says

Studies show that women with ADHD are more likely to receive a diagnosis of anxiety or depression before ADHD is even considered. In fact:

  • A 2020 UK study published in The Journal of Attention Disorders found that women were 50% less likely to be referred for ADHD assessment by GPs compared to men with similar symptoms.
  • In a 2022 survey by the UK charity ADHD Foundation, over 60% of women reported being diagnosed with ADHD after age 30.

Recognising the condition is the first step toward tailored support, effective treatment, and greater self-compassion.

Getting an ADHD Assessment as a Woman

At The Neurodevelopmental Clinic, we specialise in ADHD assessments that consider the unique presentation of symptoms in women. Whether you’re seeking clarity for yourself or a loved one, we offer a confidential, compassionate approach led by an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist.

All assessments follow NICE guidelines and include a full report suitable for medical, workplace, or educational use.

When to Reach Out

You might consider booking an assessment if you’ve ever thought:

  • “Why can’t I stay on top of everything like everyone else?”
  • “I work so hard and still feel like I’m failing.”
  • “I always seem to mess up the small things.”
  • “Is this burnout, or something else entirely?”

You're not alone—and there are answers.

FAQs

Is ADHD different in women than in men?

Yes. While core symptoms are the same, women are more likely to internalise them, leading to anxiety, depression, or people-pleasing behaviours instead of visible hyperactivity.

Why was I diagnosed with anxiety instead of ADHD?

It’s common. ADHD in women is frequently missed and misdiagnosed. Many women only receive the correct diagnosis later in life.

Can I still be diagnosed if I did well at school or have a career?

Absolutely. Many high-achieving women mask their symptoms or overcompensate until burnout forces a closer look.

What’s the benefit of getting diagnosed as an adult?

Diagnosis opens the door to medication, therapy, accommodations, and greater understanding of how your brain works—often leading to major relief and life improvements.

Resources

Ready to Understand Yourself Better?

At The Neurodevelopmental Clinic, we take a neurodiversity-affirming, gender-sensitive approach to ADHD assessments. If this article resonated with you, it may be time to take the next step.

Book your ADHD assessment today using our secure online booking platform: Click here to book

Or contact us for more information at hello@neurodevelopmental.co.uk