Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Girls

Neurodiversity Hub Wirral

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has often been seen as something that mostly affects boys. But more girls and women are being diagnosed as we learn more about how ADHD looks in different people. 

Girls often show different signs than boys. For example, girls are more likely to have inattentive ADHD, which includes daydreaming and being quiet. Boys are more likely to have hyperactive-impulsive ADHD or combined type ADHD. 

Why ADHD in Girls Is Often Missed

ADHD in girls can be hard to spot. Their symptoms may look like personality traits, such as being shy or emotional. Because of this, girls may not get the help they need. This can lead to: 

  • Low self-esteem 

  • Feeling guilty or ashamed 

  • Mental health problems later in life

Common Signs of ADHD in Girls

Girls with ADHD may: 

  • Seem withdrawn or shy 

  • Cry easily 

  • Daydream often 

  • Get distracted easily 

  • Be disorganised or messy 

  • Seem unmotivated or forgetful 

  • Be sensitive to noise, textures, or emotions 

  • Talk a lot but struggle to listen 

  • React strongly to emotions 

  • Make “careless” mistakes 

  • Slam doors or get upset easily 

  • Be late often 

  • Struggle to finish tasks 

  • Switch between activities quickly 

  • Take time to process instructions 

  • Interrupt others or blurt things out 

Not all girls with ADHD will show all these signs. Having one or two doesn’t mean a girl has ADHD, but if these behaviours happen often, it may be worth talking to a doctor.

  • ADHD can look different as girls grow up. In teenage years, ADHD may affect: 

    • Friendships 

    • Focus in school 

    • Impulse control 

    • Self-esteem 

    • Anxiety 

    Girls may blame themselves for their struggles, thinking they are lazy or not smart. But these are signs of neurodiversity, not personal flaws. 

  • It’s easier to notice ADHD in children who are loud or active. But girls who seem quiet or distracted may also have ADHD. 

    Some girls hyperfocus on things they enjoy. This means they concentrate deeply on one task, which can hide their struggles in other areas. 

    Other girls may always be moving—doodling, shifting in their seat, or being very talkative. These behaviours are sometimes seen as personality traits instead of signs of ADHD.

  • Girls with ADHD may: 

    • Interrupt others 

    • Talk too much 

    • Change topics quickly 

    • React strongly to emotions 

    They may be called “overemotional” or “too sensitive,” but these are common signs of ADHD. 

Helping Girls with ADHD

Knowing a girl has ADHD can help her feel better about herself. It can stop her from thinking she is lazy or not smart. With the right support, she can learn strategies to succeed and feel confident. 

Recognising the signs is the first step to getting help. 

Source: Verywell Mind – ADHD in Girls