Krishna Vora Therapy

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often associated with hyperactive behavior in children, but it affects women as well. Women with ADHD often present symptoms differently which leads to late diagnosis. Often women get diagnosed with ADHD when their children get diagnosed (that is true for many parents!). Let’s see some of the reasons why women often get a late diagnosis.

The Gender Bias in ADHD Diagnosis: The perception of ADHD as a primarily male disorder has led to a gender bias in diagnosis. The stereotypical hyperactive behavior seen in boys can mask the symptoms commonly found in girls. It is important to note, that ADHD can present as predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive or combined. This bias can result in many women going undiagnosed until adulthood.

Subtle vs. Overt Symptoms: ADHD symptoms can manifest differently in women compared to men. While hyperactivity might be more apparent in boys, girls tend to display more internalized symptoms. Women with ADHD might struggle with organization, time management, and impulsivity, which can be attributed to other factors, delaying accurate diagnosis. A lack of awareness and understanding of executive dysfunction difficulties can also lead one to assume that symptoms are due to laziness.

The Role of Coping Mechanisms: Women with ADHD often develop sophisticated coping mechanisms to manage their symptoms. These mechanisms can mask the underlying condition, making it harder for healthcare professionals to recognize ADHD. However, these coping strategies can become overwhelming over time and lead to burnout. Any major transition such as moving to college, starting a new job, moving to a new country, becoming a parent can lead to existing strategies and systems to collapse, leading to women looking for an explanation. If an individual is given a wrong diagnosis or the diagnosis of ADHD is missed, mental health interventions may do more harm than help.

Impact on Mental Health: Undiagnosed ADHD can take a toll on women’s mental health. The constant struggle to keep up with daily tasks, along with societal expectations, can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Recognizing the connection between mental health issues and late ADHD diagnosis is crucial. Given that women are socialized to be caregivers and nurturers, not being able to keep up with cooking, cleaning, and doing chores may also lead to significant shame and guilt among women.

Navigating Education and Careers: Late diagnosis can affect women’s educational and career trajectories. Difficulties in focusing, time management, and organization can lead to underachievement in school and challenges in the workplace. Understanding the root cause of these difficulties can empower women to seek appropriate support. A need for novelty can also lead to investing in multiple hobby ideas, jumping from one profession to another, difficulty sustaining a job among many other challenges.

Building Awareness: Raising awareness about the prevalence of ADHD in women and its distinct symptoms is essential. Healthcare professionals, educators, and the general public need to be educated about the possibility of late ADHD diagnosis in women. Increased awareness can lead to earlier interventions and improved quality of life.

Seeking Professional Help: If you suspect you or a loved one might have ADHD, seeking professional help is crucial. A thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider can lead to an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, lifestyle adjustments, and supportive strategies. My professional role includes providing therapeutic intervention, if you are interested in therapy, use the contact page to connect with me. I can also help you with information about getting assessed in Ontario.

Embracing Individuality: Late diagnosis doesn’t define a woman’s worth or capabilities. With the right support and understanding, women with ADHD can leverage their strengths and thrive in various aspects of life.

Conclusion: Late diagnosis of ADHD in women is a significant issue that can impact various aspects of their lives. By shedding light on the challenges women face and fostering greater awareness, we can create a more supportive environment for those affected by ADHD. It’s never too late to seek help and embark on a path toward understanding and empowerment.