ADHD in Women

ADHD in women often goes undiagnosed, misunderstood, or mischaracterized. This blog post is written for patients—especially women—who are navigating the complexities of ADHD with compassion, clarity, and hope.

“Why Didn’t Anyone Notice Sooner?”

Understanding ADHD in Women

If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly spinning plates—forgetting appointments, zoning out mid-conversation, or feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks—you’re not alone. For many women, ADHD isn’t diagnosed until adulthood, often after years of being labeled “too sensitive,” “too disorganized,” or “too much.”

What ADHD Looks Like in Women

ADHD in women often presents differently than the stereotypical “hyperactive boy” image. Instead of bouncing off the walls, many women experience:

• Chronic overwhelm and mental fatigue
• Difficulty focusing or initiating and finishing tasks
• Emotional sensitivity and mood swings
• Forgetfulness, disorganization, or time blindness
• People-pleasing and perfectionism to mask symptoms

These traits are often misdiagnosed as anxiety, depression, or even personality disorders

Why It’s Often Missed

Girls and women are more likely to internalize their symptoms. They may appear “high functioning” while struggling silently. Many develop elaborate coping strategies—like over-preparing, masking, or avoiding tasks altogether—to hide their difficulties.

Hormonal changes (like puberty, pregnancy, or menopause) can also intensify symptoms, making ADHD harder to manage and easier to misinterpret  

You Are Not Lazy or Broken

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, not a character flaw. It affects how your brain processes information, regulates attention, and manages emotions. Understanding this can be a huge relief—and a powerful first step toward healing.

Getting Diagnosed

If you suspect you have ADHD:

• Talk to a provider who understands how ADHD shows up in women.
• Keep a journal of your symptoms and how they affect daily life.
• Ask about screening tools like the ASRS or DIVA-5.

Diagnosis can be validating and open the door to treatment options like therapy, medication, coaching, or lifestyle changes.

Living Well with ADHD

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but many women find relief through:

• Medication (like stimulants or non-stimulants)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Executive function coaching
• Mindfulness and nervous system regulation
• Community support from other neurodivergent women

You deserve care that sees your strengths—not just your struggles.

Final Thoughts

ADHD in women is real, valid, and treatable. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or still figuring it out, know this: you are not alone, and you are not too late. Book an appointment with Nicole Leighton CRNP PMHNP-BC, a provider experienced in treating ADHD in women, and start your journey towards clarity and focus.