Classic signs of ADHD in women can often be overlooked or misdiagnosed because they may present differently than in men. Here are some of the most common signs:
- Internalised Hyperactivity
- Instead of being outwardly hyperactive, many women experience racing thoughts, restlessness, or a feeling of being constantly “on the go” internally.
- Chronic Disorganisation
- Difficulty keeping up with schedules, cluttered spaces, losing things frequently, or struggling with time management.
- Emotional Dysregulation
- Intense emotions, mood swings, difficulty handling stress, or being easily overwhelmed.
- Perfectionism and People-Pleasing
- Many women overcompensate by trying to be “perfect,” masking symptoms to avoid judgment or rejection.
- Low Self-Esteem and Imposter Syndrome
- Feeling like they’re constantly failing or not good enough despite evidence of success.
- Forgetfulness and Poor Working Memory
- Missing appointments, forgetting tasks, or needing to write everything down to function day-to-day.
- Trouble Focusing (Especially When Bored)
- Can’t stay engaged in tasks that aren’t interesting; zoning out in conversations or meetings.
- Hyperfocus
- Ironically, some women may get completely absorbed in certain tasks for hours, especially creative or highly engaging ones—while ignoring everything else.
- Sensory Sensitivities
- Being easily irritated by noises, fabrics, smells, or lights.
- Struggles with Relationships
- Difficulty with boundaries, maintaining friendships, or feeling misunderstood.