ADHD in Women and Girls: Why It’s Often Missed
- Kari Mahlik
- Oct 18
- 2 min read
Why ADHD Often Gets Overlooked in Women
When most people think of ADHD, they imagine a young boy who can’t sit still in class. But ADHD looks very different in women and girls — which is one reason it’s underdiagnosed and undertreated.
Instead of hyperactivity, many women experience:
Inattentiveness
Daydreaming
Disorganization
Emotional sensitivity
These symptoms are easier to miss, and many women grow up without the support or diagnosis they need.
ADHD Symptoms in Girls vs. Boys
Boys: More likely to display external behaviors such as fidgeting, running around, or impulsivity.
Girls: More likely to experience internal symptoms such as anxiety, low self-esteem, forgetfulness, or emotional overwhelm.
Because of this, girls are often labeled as “spacey,” “shy,” or “emotional,” rather than being assessed for ADHD.
ADHD in Women: The Hidden Struggles
Women with undiagnosed ADHD often describe years of difficulty with:
Staying organized at work or school
Managing household responsibilities
Remembering appointments or deadlines
Feeling “scatterbrained” or overwhelmed
Struggling with perfectionism and burnout
Without proper treatment, ADHD can contribute to anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.
Why Diagnosis Matters
Receiving an accurate ADHD diagnosis can be life-changing. It provides an explanation for lifelong challenges and opens the door to effective treatment, which may include:
Medication management to improve focus and attention
Therapy for building coping strategies and self-confidence
Lifestyle strategies for organization, planning, and self-care
How Bay Psychiatry of Wisconsin Can Help
Our team of psychiatric nurse practitioners understands how ADHD presents differently across genders and ages. We provide:
Comprehensive evaluations for children, teens, and adults
Personalized treatment plans that may include therapy, medication, or both
In-person visits in Green Bay, Door County, Wausau, and Oshkosh
Take the Next Step
If you’ve wondered whether ADHD might explain your challenges, or if your daughter is struggling in school despite her effort, we can help.
👉 Request an appointment today to start your journey toward clarity and support.
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