The so-called “women’s ADHD” is not a new or separate medical diagnosis. It is the same attention deficit hyperactivity disorder that can occur in both women and men, but their experiences and symptom expressions often differ. Previously, the ratio of boys to girls diagnosed in clinical practice was as high as 9:1, but today, using broader diagnostic criteria, the gender difference has decreased to about 2:1,” Dr. D. Gudienė notes in a press release.
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Symptoms carefully masked
Many women experience attention concentration difficulties from childhood. However, if a girl is calm, diligent, or well-behaved, her difficulties may not attract the attention of teachers or close ones.
“In adults, ADHD symptoms often become more apparent due to responsibilities and the abundance of daily tasks – constant mental chaos, difficulties in time planning, procrastination, emotional exhaustion, strong self-criticism, and perfectionism may trouble them. Unlike men, who more often exhibit impulsivity or behavioral difficulties with ADHD, women’s symptoms are often less noticeable to others. Some women spend a long time making great efforts to compensate for these difficulties, but over time this can lead to exhaustion and contribute to burnout, reduced self-esteem, and other emotional difficulties. This can increase feelings of guilt and the belief that something is wrong with them,” says the head of mental health clinics, psychiatrist Dr. Devika Gudienė.
Dr. D. Gudienė continues that many women seek specialists not because of ADHD but due to anxiety, burnout, chronic fatigue, or self-esteem problems. Often, they live for many years feeling that they try very hard, but daily tasks still require disproportionately much energy.
ADHD does not develop due to poor upbringing
The head of mental health clinics, psychiatrist, reminds that ADHD is not a lack of willpower, motivation, or the result of improper upbringing. It is a neurobiological disorder related to brain function peculiarities and the function of neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline. These substances are important for attention regulation, motivation, impulse control, and the ability to perform daily tasks.
“An important risk factor for ADHD is heredity – if there are cases of this disorder in the family, the likelihood of having it increases. It is believed that genetic factors may account for up to 80% of ADHD risk, but environmental factors also influence symptom expression, such as difficulties experienced during pregnancy, long-term stress, or early childhood challenges,” says Dr. D. Gudienė.
When is it worth consulting a specialist?
ADHD differs from stress and fatigue in that its symptoms are not temporary. They usually appear in childhood, recur in different areas of life, and do not disappear even after rest or changes in circumstances. A single period when a person finds it harder to concentrate or plan tasks does not necessarily mean ADHD – these difficulties may be caused by lack of sleep, stress, or excessive daily responsibilities.
“If difficulties with attention, planning, or organization persist for months or years and significantly affect work, studies, relationships, or the ability to take care of daily matters, it is worth consulting a specialist. It is also advisable to see a mental health specialist if a person has long been accompanied by feelings of chaos, recurring anxiety, or episodes of depression,” says the head of mental health clinics, psychiatrist.
Dr. D. Gudienė points out that recently there has been much talk about ADHD on social networks, so some people may think it has become a trendy diagnosis. However, greater visibility does not mean the disorder has become more common. The more ADHD is discussed, the more people, especially women, recognize long unexplained difficulties and seek professional help.
“Online tests can be a useful first step to draw attention to possible symptoms, but they do not replace professional diagnosis. Since similar difficulties can be caused by other conditions, it is important to thoroughly assess a person’s health history. ADHD diagnosis includes a conversation with a psychiatrist, analysis of difficulties experienced in childhood, assessment of current symptoms, standardized questionnaires conducted by a medical psychologist, and discussion of other possible conditions,” says the mental health specialist.
A recognized disorder can change everyday life
ADHD is not a disorder that can simply be cured, but this does not mean a person has to suffer from its difficulties all their life. “Properly chosen help can significantly improve daily life and help better control symptoms. A comprehensive approach is usually applied, including medication, psychotherapy, psychoeducation, and creating a clearer daily structure. A steady routine, regular sleep schedule, physical activity, rest planning, and the ability to recognize situations that increase emotional tension are also important,” shares Dr. D. Gudienė.
Women with ADHD more often face other health difficulties. They may find it challenging to register with a doctor on time, follow a treatment plan, or consistently complete prescribed tests.
“Early recognized ADHD and appropriate help allow a woman to better understand her needs, accept herself, and reduce the risk of developing other emotional health difficulties over time. Many women, having finally understood the cause of their difficulties and received help, say that daily life has become not a constant struggle but a more balanced life,” says the head of mental health clinics, psychiatrist Dr. D. Gudienė.
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