From Understanding Symptoms to Finding Effective Treatment and Support
ADHD in Women
Welcome to Mentalwell's specialised ADHD assessment service, which is designed to support women. If you suspect you may have ADHD, our clinicians are here to provide the guidance and support you need.
Why Mentalwell?
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We offer expert clinicians who understand how ADHD can present differently in women, recognising often overlooked inattentive symptoms.
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Our holistic support is designed for the challenges women with ADHD face, from managing emotional dysregulation to navigating societal expectations and masking behaviours.
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At Mentalwell, you can request to be assessed by a female clinician who may offer a more relatable and understanding perspective on your experiences with ADHD.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how different areas of the brain mature and communicate. While ADHD typically has its roots in childhood, many women don't receive a diagnosis until their teenage years or adulthood.
It's becoming increasingly clear that ADHD can present differently in women compared to men, and we aim to shed light on the specific symptoms, the reasons behind underdiagnosis, and the available support for women in the UK.
Which ADHD Symptoms Are Women More Likely to Experience?
While women can experience symptoms from all three presentations, the inattentive symptoms are often more prominent or the primary way ADHD manifests.
To be considered predominantly inattentive ADHD, at least six of the following must be present for at least six months:
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Difficulty with sustained attention: Being prone to making careless mistakes in tasks, such as work or schoolwork, due to a lack of focus.
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Trouble staying focused: Finding it hard to maintain concentration and stay on task, often shifting attention to other things.
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Appearing not to listen: Seeming as though you're not paying attention when spoken to directly, often "zoning out" or having a "thousand-yard stare".
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Challenges finishing tasks: Starting projects readily but struggling to follow through and see them to completion.
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Difficulties with organisation: Having trouble organising tasks and activities, managing time, and setting priorities, especially with multi-step projects.
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Avoiding tasks requiring sustained mental effort: Disliking or actively avoiding tasks that demand prolonged concentration, such as detailed work, chores, or paperwork.
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Losing things frequently: Being prone to misplacing essential items needed for tasks or activities.
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Easily distracted: Being readily diverted by external stimuli or unrelated thoughts.
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Forgetfulness in daily routines: Being forgetful about everyday activities, such as appointments, paying bills, or remembering commitments.
How Common is ADHD in Women in the UK?
Estimates regarding the prevalence of ADHD based on gender vary. While most research suggests a male-to-female ratio of around 2:1 in childhood, some studies have indicated a much higher ratio. However, in adulthood, the rates appear to become more similar as more women receive a diagnosis later in life.
Crucially, there's growing evidence that ADHD is significantly underdiagnosed in women.
Several factors are thought to contribute to this disparity:
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Symptom Presentation: Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms, more commonly observed in boys and men, tend to be more outwardly noticeable, leading to earlier identification.
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Diagnostic Bias: Due to the historical focus on ADHD in males, healthcare professionals and educators may not readily recognise the subtler inattentive symptoms more frequently seen in women.
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Limited Research on Women: Early ADHD research predominantly focused on males, leaving a significant gap in our understanding of how the condition manifests in women.
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Diagnostic Criteria Limitations: Some experts argue that the current diagnostic criteria may be less sensitive or accurate in identifying ADHD in women.
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Social Stereotypes and Masking: Behaviours associated with hyperactivity and impulsivity can be more socially acceptable in boys and men. As a result, women may consciously or unconsciously suppress or "mask" their ADHD behaviours to better fit in socially.
How is ADHD Treated, and Is There a Cure?
While there is no cure for ADHD, it is a highly treatable condition. Treatment often involves a combination of strategies tailored to the individual's needs.
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Medication: Several types of medications are commonly used to manage ADHD symptoms. These medications primarily work by influencing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Options include stimulant medications (such as methylphenidate and amphetamine-based medications) and non-stimulant medications (such as atomoxetine and guanfacine). Antidepressants may also be considered in some cases.
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Psychological Therapies: Various forms of talking therapy can be beneficial for women with ADHD. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help manage negative thought patterns and develop coping mechanisms. ADHD-specific coaching can provide practical strategies for organisation, time management, and goal setting. Therapy can also address co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, which are common in women with ADHD.
Outlook and Prognosis for Women with ADHD
ADHD is not a dangerous condition, but it can significantly impact various aspects of a woman's life, including education, career, relationships, and overall well-being.
Women with ADHD may be at a higher risk of experiencing:
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Bullying (both online and in person).
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Difficulties with emotional regulation, including rejection sensitive dysphoria.
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Learning difficulties such as dyslexia and dyscalculia.
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Physical symptoms related to mental health, like headaches, stomach aches, fatigue, and sleep problems.
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Co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
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Self-injurious behaviours.
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Challenges in forming and maintaining friendships and romantic relationships, often exacerbated by masking ADHD symptoms.
While ADHD is technically a lifelong condition that typically begins in childhood, some individuals may experience a reduction in the severity of their symptoms over time. However, women are less likely than men to "outgrow" ADHD, with a significant percentage continuing to experience symptoms into adulthood.
With appropriate treatment and the development of effective coping strategies, women with ADHD can lead fulfilling and successful lives. It's also important to recognise the potential strengths associated with ADHD, such as creativity, problem-solving abilities, and a strong memory for areas of interest. Many organisations are increasingly recognising the value of neurodiversity in the workplace.
A Note from Mentalwell
It's important to remember that if you're a woman experiencing difficulties with focus, organisation, or impulsivity, these challenges may be related to ADHD.
ADHD is a neurobiological condition, not a reflection of your character or intelligence. If you suspect you might have ADHD, booking an assessment is a crucial step towards understanding yourself better and accessing appropriate support. Together, you can develop strategies to manage your symptoms and harness your unique strengths.
What is ADHD in Women?
ADHD is a condition impacting executive functions – the skills that help us manage focus, concentration, emotional regulation, impulse control, and self-motivation.
There are three main presentations of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, and combined. The presentation is determined by the specific symptoms an individual experiences. Both the inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations have nine possible symptoms each.
To be classified under a specific presentation, at least six of these symptoms must have been present for at least six months. The combined presentation requires at least six symptoms from both the inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive lists (a minimum of 12 symptoms in total) lasting for more than six months.
Interestingly, women are less likely to exhibit the hyperactive/impulsive symptoms traditionally associated with ADHD. This means they are less frequently diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive or combined presentations.
While less common as the primary presentation in women, hyperactive/impulsive symptoms can still be present and impact relationships, work, and study habits.
To be considered predominantly hyperactive/impulsive ADHD, at least six of the following must have been present for over six months:
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Fidgeting: Often fidgeting with hands or feet or squirming in their seat.
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Needing to move: Frequently needing to stand up and walk around in situations where remaining seated is expected.
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Feeling restless: Experiencing a persistent feeling of inner restlessness.
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Excessive talking: Having trouble being quiet and often talking excessively, sometimes including talking to themselves or making noises without intending to.
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Being "on the go": Being unusually active, with others struggling to keep pace.
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Talking excessively: Finding themselves talking more than others, potentially over-explaining or "info-dumping" on topics of interest.
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Interrupting: Having difficulty with conversational self-restraint, frequently interrupting others or finishing their sentences.
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Trouble waiting their turn: Finding it hard to be patient and wait their turn in conversations or activities.
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Social boundary issues: Not always understanding social cues and potentially interrupting or intruding on others without realising it might be considered rude.
What Causes ADHD in Women?
The exact causes of ADHD are still being investigated, but there's a strong genetic component. This means that if a parent has ADHD, their child has a higher chance of also having the condition.
Individuals with ADHD are considered neurodivergent, meaning their brains develop and function differently compared to neurotypical individuals. Research continues to explore the role of brain structure, neurochemistry, and hormonal influences in the development and presentation of ADHD, potentially explaining why certain symptoms are more prevalent in different genders.
How is ADHD Diagnosed in Women in the UK?
Diagnosing ADHD typically involves a consultation with a healthcare professional, usually a psychiatrist or psychologist experienced in neurodevelopmental conditions. This process involves detailed questions about current and past symptoms and their impact on various life areas.
Clinicians often use specific questionnaires and rating scales designed to aid in the diagnosis. Currently, there are no blood tests or brain scans that can definitively diagnose ADHD.
Possible Complications and Side Effects of Treatment
The potential side effects of ADHD medications vary depending on the specific medication, dosage, and individual factors. It's essential to have an open conversation with your clinician about any concerns. For example, stimulant medications can sometimes affect appetite, which is a factor to consider, particularly given that eating disorders are more prevalent in women.
Your healthcare provider can provide detailed information about potential side effects and how to manage them.
Can ADHD be Prevented?
As the exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, and there's a strong genetic link, it is not currently possible to prevent the development of ADHD.
Living Well with ADHD: Self-Care Strategies
If you suspect you might have ADHD, the first step is to speak to your General Practitioner (GP). They can provide initial guidance and refer you to a specialist for a comprehensive assessment. If you receive an ADHD diagnosis, working closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalised treatment plan is essential.
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Taking prescribed medications as directed.
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Attending regular appointments for therapy and medication reviews.
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Developing routines and habits to aid organisation and time management.
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Utilising technology such as reminder apps and organisational tools.
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Not being afraid to request reasonable adjustments or accommodations in work or educational settings.
Remember that finding the right strategies for managing ADHD is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories.
Are women more likely to have the inattentive type of ADHD?
Despite the common perception, research indicates that women have similar rates of inattentive-type symptoms as men. However, they are less likely to exhibit hyperactive/impulsive symptoms. This means women are just as likely to have inattentive ADHD but less likely to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive or combined presentations.
