ADHD in Women: How Symptoms May Look Different and How Counselling Can Help

Many people still picture ADHD as a condition that mostly affects boys who cannot sit still or stop fidgeting. The truth is ADHD affects women just as often, but it can look very different. Because of this many women do not realise they have ADHD until adulthood and may struggle for years without support.

Recognising how ADHD presents in women can be a first step toward understanding yourself and finding strategies to feel more in control. Counselling can help you navigate these challenges with compassion and practical tools.

How ADHD May Appear in Women

Women with ADHD often experience less visible hyperactivity and more mental restlessness. This might include:

• A constantly racing mind

• Difficulty relaxing even during quiet moments

• Feeling overwhelmed or mentally on edge

Many women also develop strong coping strategies that mask their symptoms. These can include:

• Over preparing for work or social situations

• People pleasing to avoid criticism

• Working extremely hard to appear organised

• Hiding exhaustion or overwhelm from others

While these strategies help in the short term they can be emotionally draining and increase stress over time.

Emotional and Social Challenges

Emotional intensity is common in women with ADHD. Many experience:

• Strong feelings of shame when they forget or make mistakes

• Sensitivity to criticism

• Intense emotional responses that feel hard to manage

Women with ADHD may also find social situations challenging such as:

• Talking quickly when excited or interrupting without meaning to

• Feeling lonely even when surrounded by friends

• Struggling with conflict or rejection sensitivity

These patterns can make women feel misunderstood and increase self criticism over time.

Everyday Life Struggles

Executive functioning difficulties are another common aspect of ADHD in women. This can show up as:

• Difficulty starting tasks or finishing projects

• Forgetting appointments or deadlines

• Chronic lateness or disorganisation

• Alternating between clutter and bursts of intense tidying

Many women work very hard to compensate for these challenges which can lead to burnout.

How Counselling Can Help

If you relate to any of these experiences counselling can offer

• A safe space to explore how ADHD affects your life

• Support for managing stress, anxiety, or low self esteem

• Tools and strategies to improve organisation and emotional regulation

• Validation and understanding that your struggles are not a personal failing

Whether you are diagnosed, self-diagnosed, or you relate to some of these experiences, counselling can offer support, validation, and strategies to help you feel more confident and organised.

You deserve support that meets you where you are. Contact me today to book a free initial call and explore how counselling can support you.