Unveiling Gender Differences: How ADHD Presents Differently in Women and Men

Jul 11

While ADHD is often perceived as a childhood condition, what isn’t commonly understood is that adults may have undiagnosed ADHD and not even realize symptoms they are struggling with are in fact related to the condition. Any individual experiencing ADHD was in fact born with it, thereby dispelling the myth that it develops in school-age children or suddenly appears with a new job, change of life circumstance or major event. What is worth noting, are the differences in the way in which ADHD symptoms present in women or men related to either gender, life experience, or both.

Presentation and symptoms of ADHD can vary significantly between men and women. Given the differences in symptoms, combined with internalized gender bias in practitioners, many adults with ADHD can go undiagnosed well into adulthood. It is worth noting that childhood experience with the condition may differ based on gender socialization. Research has not yet determined affects and outcomes attributed to sex difference versus gender socialization and bias. As such, in this blog we will delve into the distinct ways that ADHD presents in adult women and men, shedding light on the unique challenges each face, and how to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Symptoms & Signs of ADHD, Adult Cisgender Men

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Men with ADHD are more likely to exhibit outward signs of hyperactivity and impulsivity, including restlessness and risk-taking behaviors.
Externalizing Behaviors: Disruptive behaviors, such as interrupting others, are common among men with ADHD, impacting their relationships and professional lives.
Executive Functioning Challenges: Difficulties with organization and time management are prevalent among men with ADHD.

Despite the visible nature of their symptoms, men can still face challenges in obtaining an accurate diagnosis. Societal expectations and stereotypes about ADHD in men may lead to underrecognition and undertreatment of the condition. Men who experience more inattentive symptoms of ADHD typically have a more difficult time obtaining a diagnosis.

Symptoms & Signs of ADHD, Adult Cisgender Women

Internalizing Symptoms: Rather than exhibiting external behaviors like hyperactivity, adult women with ADHD tend to internalize their struggles, experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional dysregulation. Women tend to mask their symptoms with a façade of competence.
Inattentiveness Over Impulsivity: While impulsivity is a hallmark of ADHD, women may struggle more with inattention, leading to difficulties in organization and time management, and apparent forgetfulness.
Coping Mechanisms: Women may develop coping mechanisms such as perfectionism and people-pleasing to compensate for their symptoms, often leading to exhaustion and burnout. Constant exhaustion and burnout can lead to a misdiagnosis.

Despite these challenges, women often face obstacles in receiving a diagnosis due to gender bias. Many ADHD stereotypes are based on the struggles men face. Women are more likely to be misdiagnosed with conditions like anxiety or depression instead of ADHD, delaying proper treatment and support.

Co-occurring Conditions and Comorbidities

ADHD is oftentimes not a standalone disorder. Both women and men with ADHD often experience co-morbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, further complicating diagnosis and treatment. It is also common for people with ADHD to have a learning disability, such as dyslexia or dyscalculia. Practitioners may incorrectly attribute certain symptoms of ADHD to a co-morbid condition, further delaying an accurate diagnosis.

Recommendations for an Accurate Diagnosis for both Men & Women

There is no standardized ADHD test. Free online quizzes can be a good place to start, but are rarely thorough enough to cover the nuanced nature of ADHD. There are many ways to quickly obtain a diagnosis, but no guarantee that a brief test will give you an accurate result. For example, a primary care physician can conduct a brief test for ADHD, but afterwards will likely refer you to an ADHD specialist to better understand your symptoms. A psychiatrist is able to test for a diagnosis and provide medication, but is unlikely to offer a treatment plan or help with the struggles of day-to-day life. It also worth noting that many health insurance providers do not cover testing for symptoms they deem mental conditions.

Understanding how ADHD presents in adult women and men is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. By recognizing these differences, we can ensure that all individuals receive the support and resources they need to thrive with ADHD. If you suspect you may have ADHD, regardless of gender, we recommend beginning with a professional evaluation by a Licensed Psychologist.

ADHD Assessment Clinic understands the unique symptoms and challenges encountered by women, men, and those outside the gender binary with ADHD. We offer comprehensive testing that uncovers all symptoms, regardless of gender, while concurrently considering the challenges each face.

Amany Hararah