Unmasking ADHD: The Overlooked Symptoms in Women

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Recent discussions led by Dr Ali Ajaz, a UK-based consultant psychiatrist, have shed light on the often unrecognised symptoms of ADHD in women. Many women remain undiagnosed until their 30s, primarily due to a lack of awareness surrounding female-specific symptoms. This oversight can lead to significant challenges in self-esteem, relationships, and professional aspirations.

  • Women are often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed with ADHD, leading to long-term consequences.
  • Symptoms in women may manifest differently than in men, often internalised rather than externalised.
  • Hormonal fluctuations can exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women, particularly during the menstrual cycle.
  • Conditions like PMDD may overlap with ADHD symptoms, complicating diagnosis.

The Gender Disparity in ADHD Diagnosis

Research indicates that ADHD is more frequently diagnosed in boys during childhood, with a ratio of three to sixteen times more likely than girls. However, this disparity tends to level out after the age of 18. Dr Ajaz emphasises that the unique presentation of ADHD in women often goes unnoticed, resulting in many women receiving their diagnosis only in adulthood.

Internalisation of Symptoms

One of the key differences in how ADHD presents in women is the tendency to internalise symptoms. Women may suppress outward signs of hyperactivity, leading to increased anxiety and stress. This internal struggle can manifest as mood regulation issues, making it difficult for them to cope in social and professional settings.

Masking Behaviours

Women with ADHD often develop coping mechanisms to mask their symptoms, creating an illusion of normalcy. This behaviour can lead to feelings of imposter syndrome, where they doubt their abilities and feel undeserving of their achievements. Dr Ajaz points out that this masking can prevent women from seeking the help they need, further complicating their mental health.

Hormonal Influences on ADHD Symptoms

Dr Ajaz highlights that women with ADHD may experience heightened symptoms related to their menstrual cycle. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to increased challenges during the luteal phase of their cycle, where symptoms may intensify. Some studies suggest that higher levels of estrogen in the first half of the cycle may help women feel more productive, while a drop in estrogen can exacerbate ADHD symptoms in the latter half.

The Overlap with PMDD

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is another condition that may be linked to ADHD in women. PMDD causes severe emotional and physical symptoms before menstruation, affecting around 10% of women. Dr Ajaz notes that many women with ADHD are misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression, as their symptoms can be mistaken for personality traits rather than a neurological condition.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Experts stress the significance of early and accurate diagnosis of ADHD in women. Without proper treatment, chronic stress and frustration can lead to anxiety and a diminished sense of self-worth. Dr Peter Jaksa, a psychologist specialising in ADHD, warns that untreated ADHD can severely impact educational and career opportunities, ultimately affecting financial stability.

In conclusion, the conversation around ADHD in women is evolving, with increasing recognition of the unique symptoms and challenges they face. By raising awareness and understanding these unspoken signs, we can help ensure that more women receive the support and diagnosis they need to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Sources

About the Author

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Errin Anderson

Errin Anderson is a leading ADHD Business Coach and the founder of PhilanthroPeak Coaching. With firsthand experience of the challenges and strengths of ADHD—having been diagnosed in his 30s—Errin combines his personal journey with professional expertise to empower neurodiverse entrepreneurs. His coaching focuses on transforming obstacles into opportunities, offering practical tools and strategies tailored to the unique needs of ADHD business owners.
Errin’s passion lies in helping entrepreneurs embrace their creativity, focus their energy, and thrive both personally and professionally. His mission is to prove that ADHD isn’t a limitation—it’s a unique advantage waiting to be unlocked.

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