ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that also intersects with mental health and is often seen as a childhood condition, especially in boys. But ADHD affects girls and women too and often in ways that aren’t obvious. Many women only get diagnosed later in life, sometimes after years of struggling with focus, time management and emotional dysregulation [1].
ADHD in women is often missed because the symptoms can look different from the “classic” signs we hear about in boys. Understanding these internalised and often unique differences is important. With the right support, women with ADHD can improve their executive function, focus, feel more in control, and manage day-to-day life more easily [1].
In this guide, we’ll cover what ADHD looks like in women, what symptoms to watch for at different ages, coping mechanisms, and how treatment can help.
What does ADHD in women look like?
ADHD is a condition that affects how the brain handles attention, impulses, and energy contributing to a range of mental health challenges. It is often linked to hyperactivity and trouble sitting still, but that is only part of the picture.
In women, ADHD symptoms are often less obvious. Instead of being restless or loud, many girls and women show signs like daydreaming, disorganisation, or feeling overwhelmed. These signs and coping mechanisms can be mistaken for stress or personality quirks, making ADHD harder to spot.
Common ADHD traits in women include:
- Trouble staying focused
- Forgetting things often
- Feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks
- Emotional ups and downs
- Difficulty with planning and organisation [2]
Women often learn to hide or “mask” these struggles to fit in, which can delay a diagnosis. This is why understanding how ADHD appears in women is so important.
ADHD symptoms in women
ADHD symptoms in women can vary widely and are often hidden, often leading to underdiagnosis or misidentification as anxiety or depression. Many women are not diagnosed until adulthood because their struggles were missed in childhood.
Here are common symptoms of ADHD in women:
- Emotional ups and downs (emotional dysregulation)
- Trouble planning or finishing tasks (executive dysfunction)
- Losing track of time (time blindness)
- Chronic disorganisation at home or work
- Difficulty focusing or staying on task
- Daydreaming or zoning out (inattentiveness)
- Strong reactions to rejection or criticism (rejection sensitivity)
- Forgetting appointments or important tasks
- Restlessness or fidgeting
- Procrastination or avoiding tasks
- Trouble setting priorities
- Feeling easily overwhelmed
- Difficulty managing several tasks at once
- Struggling to listen during conversations
- Hiding or masking symptoms to avoid judgement [2]
Because these symptoms can be masked, many women go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression.
Type of ADHD in women: Hyperactive, inattentive, combined
ADHD is not the same for everyone. It is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that comes in different types, and symptoms can depend on which type you have. Knowing this can help women understand what kind of coping mechanisms may work for them and what longer term support they may need [3].
Hyperactive ADHD in women
Hyperactive ADHD is what most people think of when they hear “ADHD.” It is more common in boys, but some women have it too. It often shows up as:
- Talking a lot or interrupting others in conversation
- Feeling restless or like you always need to be doing something
- Acting without thinking, which can lead to mistakes or taking risks
- Struggling to stay patient, especially in slow or quiet situations
- Women with this type may be seen as “bubbly” or “energetic,” but inside they can feel on edge or burnt out
- They may also experience emotional regulation challenges [5].
Inattentive ADHD in women
Inattentive ADHD is the most common type in women. It is often overlooked because it does not look disruptive. It can show up as:
- Difficulty focusing or following conversations (attention)
- Forgetting details, losing items, or missing appointments
- Getting distracted easily, especially with boring tasks
- Procrastination and difficulty completing things, even when they are important
- Women with this type may be called “scatterbrained” or “lazy,” but the real issue is that they may have executive dysfunction, where they find it harder to filter and organise information [5].
Combined type ADHD
Some women have a mix of hyperactive and inattentive symptoms. This is called combined type ADHD. These women may feel both mentally and physically restless while also struggling with focus and memory.
ADHD and hormonal fluctuations
Hormonal changes throughout life can affect ADHD symptoms in ways that many women do not expect. This can happen during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause.
Oestrogen, a key female hormone, plays a part in regulating dopamine, which helps control attention, motivation, and mood. When oestrogen levels fall, such as before a period or during menopause, ADHD symptoms like forgetfulness, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating can get worse [6].
Here is how ADHD and hormones can interact at different times:
- Menstrual cycle: Many women notice that the week before their period brings more brain fog, forgetfulness, irritability, or trouble focusing. Some also find their medication does not work as well during this time.
- Pregnancy: Some women feel better during pregnancy, as oestrogen levels are higher, but others struggle with focus and organisation. Fatigue and emotional changes can also play a role.
- Perimenopause and menopause: As oestrogen levels drop, ADHD symptoms can become much more noticeable. Some women who managed well before menopause may start to struggle, even if they have never been diagnosed with ADHD [7].
It is important for women to track these changes and discuss them with their doctor. This can help guide treatment adjustments, whether that involves medication, therapy, or lifestyle support.
Symptoms of ADHD in women by age group
ADHD symptoms change over time, and they can affect girls and women in different ways depending on their age and life stage. Knowing what to look for can help women and families spot the signs early and get the right help.
Symptoms of ADHD in girls during childhood
ADHD in girls is often missed in childhood because it looks different from the more disruptive behaviour seen in boys. Instead of acting out, girls may:
- Show inattentiveness – daydream in class or get lost in their thoughts
- Struggle to follow instructions or complete tasks
- Appear shy or withdrawn
- Show forgetfulness with things like homework, lunchboxes, or school supplies
- Be very sensitive to criticism or correction
- Have difficulty sitting still or waiting their turn
- Exhibit emotional sensitivity – geting upset easily over small problems
- Show emotional outbursts at home but be quiet at school
Because these behaviours are often seen as “normal childhood struggles,” girls can go undiagnosed, which may affect their confidence and school performance.
Symptoms of ADHD in teenage girls
Teenage years bring more demands at school, at home, and in friendships. ADHD can show up as:
- Mood swings or emotional ups and downs
- Poor time management, procrastination and last-minute rushing
- Difficulty staying on top of schoolwork or deadlines
- Risky behaviours like unsafe driving, drinking, or skipping school
- Challenges in friendships and romantic relationships
- Feeling overwhelmed by expectations at school and home
- Trouble with planning and decision-making
Puberty and hormonal changes can make ADHD symptoms worse. Teens may also become more aware of their differences, such as executive dysfunction, which can then affect their self-esteem.
Symptoms of ADHD in adult women
Adult women with ADHD face daily demands from work, home, and relationships. Symptoms may include:
- Feeling overwhelmed by household and work tasks
- Difficulty juggling work deadlines, childcare, and personal needs
- Forgetting appointments, bills, or tasks
- Emotional sensitivity, such as overreacting to stress or criticism
- Difficulty focusing in meetings or on long tasks
- Restlessness or a constant feeling of being “on edge”
- Finding money management or household organisation more difficult
- Trouble setting priorities and finishing projects
Many adult women only realise they have ADHD after years of struggling and may first seek help for anxiety or depression.
ADHD treatment for women
Getting the right treatment can make a real difference for women with ADHD. It can help with focus, time management, emotional control, and daily routines. Treatment plans are often tailored to the person and may include a mix of medication, therapy, and lifestyle support.
Medications
Medication is often the first line of treatment. There are two main types:
- Stimulants, which help increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These can improve focus and reduce impulsivity.
- Non-stimulants, which may be used when stimulants are not suitable or cause side effects.
Some women notice that their symptoms or response to medication change at certain times in their menstrual cycle. For example, medication may feel less effective in the days before a period. In these cases, cycle-aware treatment planning can help. A doctor may adjust the dose or recommend extra support during certain times.
Learn more about ADHD medication
Therapy and coaching
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help women manage the emotional and practical effects of ADHD, such as executive dysfunction and emotional dysregulation. It focuses on things like building better routines, reducing negative thinking, and managing stress.
ADHD coaching can also be helpful. A coach works with you to improve planning, set goals, and stay on track with tasks at work or home.
Lifestyle changes
Small changes to daily habits can support brain function and improve symptoms. These might include:
- Keeping a regular sleep schedule
- Eating balanced meals at regular times
- Exercising regularly
- Using reminders, planners, or visual tools to stay organised
- Reducing distractions while working
- Practising mindfulness or stress reduction techniques
ADHD in women test
If you think you may have ADHD, it is important to speak with a doctor or mental health professional. Online ADHD tests can help guide you, but they are not a diagnosis. Only a qualified healthcare provider can assess and confirm ADHD.
Treatment for ADHD in women in Ireland
In Ireland, more women are now seeking assessment and support for ADHD. If you think you may have ADHD, your first step should be to speak to your GP. A GP can discuss your concerns, check for other possible causes, and refer you for an ADHD assessment if needed.
An ADHD assessment is usually carried out by a specialist, such as a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist. This involves looking at your symptoms, personal history, and how ADHD may be affecting different areas of your life [3].
Once you have a diagnosis, your treatment plan can be tailored to your needs. This may include:
- Medication to help improve focus and manage impulsive behaviour
- Therapy or ADHD coaching to build routines, improve organisation, and manage emotions
- Lifestyle changes to support brain health, such as regular sleep, exercise, and balanced meals
It is also helpful to build a support network. Talking to family, friends, or even a local support group can help you feel less alone in managing ADHD [3].
For women, treatment plans may need to account for hormonal changes, especially around the menstrual cycle or during menopause. Discussing these details with your doctor can help ensure you get the most from your treatment.
The most important step is reaching out for help. Many women find that once they understand their ADHD and get the right support, they can thrive both at home and at work.
