Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has long been associated with the classic image of a hyperactive young boy who can’t sit still. But for many girls and women living with ADHD, their experiences often look quite different — and because of this, they’re frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed.
Key Differences in Presentation
Boys with ADHD are more likely to show externalising symptoms: hyperactivity, impulsivity, and disruptive behaviour. These behaviours tend to attract attention earlier, leading to quicker diagnosis in childhood.
Girls with ADHD, on the other hand, often experience internalising symptoms: inattentiveness, daydreaming, disorganisation, and emotional dysregulation. They might be labeled as “spacey,” “overly sensitive,” or even “lazy,” rather than being recognised as having a neurological difference. Because their symptoms are less outwardly disruptive, girls are often diagnosed much later — sometimes not until adulthood.
New Insights from Recent Research
A recent 2025 study in Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews highlights these differences even more clearly. Researchers found that biological and cognitive profiles of ADHD can vary significantly by gender, suggesting that current diagnostic criteria — largely developed based on male presentations — might need updating. The study urges for a more tailored understanding and assessment approach, particularly for females whose struggles are often masked by coping strategies or social expectations.
Why This Matters
When ADHD in females goes unrecognized, it can lead to years of academic challenges, strained relationships, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Earlier and more accurate identification could change the trajectory of countless lives — offering girls and women the support they deserve much sooner.
A Call for Greater Awareness
Recognising that ADHD doesn’t have a “one-size-fits-all” presentation is a step toward a more inclusive, compassionate world. Every individual’s brain is different — and that’s not just okay, it’s something to be celebrated.
If you suspect you or someone you care about might be living with undiagnosed ADHD, reaching out to a mental health professional is a strong first step.