Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder / ADHD in Women
ADHD often looks different in women.
Many women with ADHD go undiagnosed for years because their symptoms don't match the stereotype of the hyperactive young boy. Instead of obvious hyperactivity, ADHD in women may appear as chronic overwhelm, disorganization, difficulty following through on tasks, emotional sensitivity, anxiety, or persistent feelings of underachievement despite working extremely hard.
Common signs of ADHD in women
Difficulty starting or finishing tasks
Chronic procrastination
Forgetfulness and losing track of responsibilities
Feeling mentally overwhelmed by daily demands
Trouble managing time
Emotional reactivity or rejection sensitivity
Burnout from masking symptoms
Anxiety or depression that never fully improves
Why ADHD is often missed
Many women develop strategies to compensate for ADHD symptoms. They may appear successful, organized, or high-functioning on the surface while struggling internally. Symptoms are frequently misattributed to anxiety, depression, stress, perfectionism, or personality traits.
Hormonal changes during adolescence, pregnancy, postpartum periods, and perimenopause can also make ADHD symptoms more noticeable.
Comprehensive ADHD Evaluation
At McFerran Psychiatry, ADHD evaluations focus on understanding the full picture. Symptoms are assessed within the context of your history, functioning, strengths, and other possible contributing factors.
The goal is not simply to determine whether ADHD is present, but to develop a clear understanding of what is driving your symptoms and what treatments are most likely to help.
Treatment Options
Treatment may include:
Medication management
Behavioral and organizational strategies
Lifestyle interventions
Coordination with therapists and other healthcare providers when appropriate
Treatment plans are individualized and designed to support long-term functioning, not just symptom reduction.
Schedule an Evaluation
McFerran Psychiatry provides ADHD evaluation and treatment for adults throughout Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Maine via telehealth.