ADHD In Women and Girls

Why ADHD Symptoms In Women Are Often Dismissed

Women go quiet and become withdrawn – the typical symptoms of inattentive ADHD. Their symptoms include disorganization, impulsivity, shyness, trouble listening and remembering, and difficulty paying attention to details. These symptoms are often viewed as traits rather than symptoms.

For example, a girl could be described as zoning out, forgetful, or talkative. When she reaches out for help later, she ends up with a depression or anxiety diagnosis. The bright side of all this is that there is an increasing amount of awareness, therefore encouraging women to get the help they need.

Feeling inadequate, psychologically distressed, low self-esteem, and chronic stress are common side effects. Women with ADHD often feel like their lives are spinning out of control and that daily tasks are increasingly complicated.

Female gender roles can add stress to an already stressed individual. It isn’t easy to take care of others when taking care of oneself is a task unto itself. The societal pressure can increase a woman’s feeling that she’s inadequate.