ADHD in Women: Understanding Your Unique Challenges

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When people think of ADHD, they often picture a young boy who is hyperactive and struggles to sit still. 

But ADHD is not limited to men – it affects many women too! Though this often shows up in different ways. 

At The Dr Jenni Clinic, we specialise in recognising and diagnosing ADHD in all individuals, including those whose symptoms may have been overlooked in childhood. Here’s what you need to know about ADHD in women and why it’s important to understand its unique presentation.

How Does ADHD Present Differently in Women?

ADHD in women can look different from the typical image we all have in our heads of the condition. While men with ADHD may be more visibly hyperactive, many women experience what we as doctors call ‘inattentive’ symptoms that can be more subtle but just as challenging. These differences in presentation mean that women are often underdiagnosed or diagnosed later in life. Here are some key differences:

Inattentiveness Over Hyperactivity: 

Many women with ADHD show more inattentive symptoms, such as difficulty focusing, daydreaming, or struggling to organise tasks. These symptoms can be less noticeable than hyperactive behaviours, leading to a missed diagnosis.

Internalised Symptoms

Women with ADHD are more likely to internalise their struggles, experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, or feelings of being overwhelmed. This can make their ADHD symptoms appear as emotional challenges rather than a neurodevelopmental condition.

Compensatory Strategies or ‘Masking’: 

Many women develop strategies to cope with their ADHD symptoms, such as working extra hard to stay organised or masking their struggles. While these strategies can be effective in the short term, they often come at the cost of high levels of stress and burnout.

Why Does ADHD in Women Often Go Undiagnosed?

There are several reasons why ADHD in women is often overlooked:

Cultural Expectations: 

Traditional gender roles may lead to a perception that girls should be “quiet” or “well-behaved,” making it easier for their symptoms to go unnoticed. Teachers and parents might see a girl who is struggling but attribute it to a lack of effort rather than a neurological difference.

Different Symptom Presentation: 

The diagnostic criteria for ADHD have historically been based on studies with boys, which means that the presentation of ADHD in women hasn’t been as well understood. This can lead to a misdiagnosis or a focus on other conditions like anxiety or depression.

Late-Onset Recognition: 

Many women don’t realise they have ADHD until they face increased responsibilities in adulthood, such as balancing work, home life, or parenting. These pressures can make ADHD symptoms more apparent, leading to a diagnosis later in life.

 

Common Signs of ADHD in Women

If you’re wondering whether ADHD might be affecting you or a loved one, here are some common signs to look out for in women:

Chronic Disorganisation: 

Struggling to keep track of deadlines, appointments, or daily routines, despite efforts to stay on top of things.

Difficulty Focusing: 

Finding it hard to concentrate on tasks, especially those that require sustained attention, like reading or work projects.

Emotional Sensitivity: 

Experiencing intense emotions, especially in response to criticism or perceived failure. This can include symptoms of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).

Feeling Overwhelmed: 

Struggling to manage the demands of daily life, leading to feelings of being constantly behind or overwhelmed.

 

How an ADHD Diagnosis Can Help

Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing, especially for women who may have spent years feeling misunderstood. A diagnosis provides validation, helping to explain why certain challenges have always been present. It also opens the door to support, including therapy, medication, and strategies tailored to your unique needs.

At The Dr Jenni Clinic, we offer comprehensive assessments that are designed to recognise the full spectrum of ADHD symptoms, including those that are more common in women. Our approach is compassionate and thorough, ensuring that each person receives the support they need to thrive.

 

Support and Treatment for ADHD in women

Managing ADHD is about more than just addressing symptoms, it’s about empowering individuals to understand their strengths and challenges. At The Dr Jenni Clinic, we provide:

Therapeutic Support: 

Therapy can be particularly beneficial in addressing anxiety, self-esteem issues, and developing coping strategies tailored to the challenges of ADHD.

Medication Management: 

Medication can be a valuable tool for managing ADHD symptoms, helping to improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and support daily functioning.

Lifestyle and Organisation Strategies: 

Our team can guide you through practical strategies for managing everyday challenges, such as time management, organisation, and self-care.

 

How The Dr Jenni Clinic Can Help

If you suspect that you or someone you care about might have ADHD, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at The Dr Jenni Clinic here in Blisworth, Northamptonshire. We’re close to Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Leicestershire but also offer those much needed online consultations as well. We understand that the experience of ADHD is unique for each individual, and we are here to provide a supportive, expert approach to diagnosis and care. Our goal is to help you understand your experiences and find the tools you need to live a balanced, fulfilling life.

 

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