ADHD in Girls

What is ADHD?

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting children and adults. It is characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity patterns that can impact various aspects of life, including academic performance, social interactions, and daily functioning. When explaining ADHD to a parent of a young child, it is important to emphasize that it is not a result of bad parenting or a lack of discipline. Rather, it is a neurological condition affecting the child’s ability to regulate attention and behavior. It is essential to provide support, understanding, and appropriate interventions to help the child manage their symptoms and thrive in various environments.

Does my daughter have ADHD? ADHD looks different in girls than in adults or boys.

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, can present differently in girls than adults or boys. Girls with ADHD may exhibit general distractibility, hyperactivity, and moodiness. However, these symptoms can often be attributed to hormonal changes during puberty, which can mask the underlying signs of ADHD. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or specialist to properly diagnose ADHD in girls and determine the most appropriate course of action.

Early detection is essential to prevent real psychological damage.

Early detection is crucial when it comes to preventing real psychological damage. Identifying and addressing mental health issues in their early stages can significantly reduce the risk of long-term consequences. By recognizing signs and symptoms early on, individuals can seek appropriate help and support, allowing timely intervention and treatment. This can prevent the escalation of mental health problems and minimize their potential impact on a person’s well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. Early detection also enables professionals to implement preventive measures and develop strategies to mitigate potential risks, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary care and support to maintain their mental health.

Why clinicians miss diagnosing ADHD in girls

Research has shown that girls with ADHD are more likely to have internalized and less noticeable symptoms than boys with ADHD. While boys with ADHD often display hyperactive and impulsive behaviors that are easily noticed, girls with ADHD tend to exhibit more internalized and less visible symptoms. These symptoms may include difficulty with attention, organization, time management, and emotional and social challenges. Due to their less noticeable symptoms, girls with ADHD may be more likely to go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leading to potential academic and social difficulties. Parents, educators, and healthcare professionals must be aware of these gender differences in ADHD symptoms to provide appropriate support and interventions for girls with ADHD. When individuals experience symptoms of mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, they may use coping mechanisms to mask or hide their symptoms. Coping mechanisms can be healthy and unhealthy, depending on the individual and the technique employed. Some individuals may engage in activities such as exercise, meditation, or talking to a trusted friend or therapist, which can help alleviate their symptoms. However, others may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse, self-harm, or avoidance, which can further exacerbate their mental health issues. Individuals need professional help and support to develop healthy coping mechanisms that effectively address their symptoms. Research has shown that there is a significant gender bias when it comes to referring girls for diagnosis and treatment. Teachers and parents are less likely to refer girls for evaluation and support than boys. This bias can seriously affect girls struggling with learning disabilities, ADHD, or mental health conditions. Not receiving timely diagnosis and treatment may make these girls struggle academically and emotionally, leading to long-term negative effects on their overall well-being. Educators and parents must be aware of this bias and ensure that all children, regardless of gender, receive the support they need.

Girls with ADHD are more likely to have internalized and less noticeable symptoms
They’re more likely to use coping mechanisms to mask or hide their symptoms
Teachers and parents are less likely to refer girls for diagnosis and treatment

Girls with undiagnosed ADHD can’t get the right kind of support. As a result, they experience challenges in both school and social settings, affecting their success and self-esteem.

Symptoms of ADHD in young girls

Quick check: Does your daughter or student struggle with the following?

Can’t sit in school. One common symptom in young girls is the inability to sit still in school. They may fidget, squirm, or constantly change positions in their seat. This behavior can make it difficult for them to concentrate and focus on their schoolwork. They may also have difficulty staying quiet and frequently interrupt or talk out of turn.
Constantly calls out of turn. Girls with ADHD may exhibit impulsive behaviors such as calling out of turn, interrupting others, and difficulty waiting their turn. These behaviors can disrupt classroom settings and social interactions. Recognizing and addressing this symptom is appropriate to facilitate support and intervention.
She spends hours playing but gets frustrated by a few minutes of homework. Playing allows her to engage in activities that capture her interest and provide a sense of enjoyment. On the other hand, homework requires sustained attention, focus, and effort, which can be challenging for individuals with ADHD.
Forgets to turn in homework. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with organization, time management, and memory, prioritizing tasks, and managing their time effectively. Additionally, they may need help staying focused and become easily distracted, leading to forgetfulness.
She seems lost in her thoughts. The constant stream of thoughts and distractions in her mind can make it difficult to stay present and fully participate in her surroundings.
Is called a “chatterbox” by teachers. Teachers may label girls with ADHD as “chatterboxes” because they struggle with impulsivity and have difficulty regulating their speech. It is important for educators and society as a whole to understand that these behaviors are not intentional or a result of being disruptive but rather a manifestation of their ADHD.
She avoids people, tasks, or events she finds challenging. Avoiding people, tasks, or events that one finds challenging can be a coping mechanism for individuals who struggle with anxiety, stress, or other mental health issues.
Creates conflict to deflect attention from a problem she is facing. Creating conflict to deflect attention from an issue is a common tactic used by arguments, confrontations, or even spreading rumors or gossip. The intention behind this behavior is to shift the focus away from their problems and onto the conflict they have created, effectively deflecting any attention or scrutiny they may face.

Girls with ADHD may present differently depending on their presentation type. Those with the hyperactive-impulsive type may have trouble controlling their behaviors and be excessively energetic or impulsive. At the same time, those with inattentive presentations may need help with concentration, organization, and learning new information. They may also appear forgetful or daydreamy and need help to follow instructions. Gender stereotypes impact properly assessing and identifying symptoms. Caregivers can assume that girls who daydream and are constantly lost in thought are just “being girls.” Girls can also display a combination of both types of presentations. Regardless of presentation type, ADHD can cause significant difficulty for girls in their daily lives. It is important to understand the condition to ensure proper care and support is given as needed.

The Importance of Treating ADHD: Why Symptoms Don’t Improve on Their Own

Delaying treatment or diagnosis can hurt daily life at school or home. Girls can attribute the difficulties they face to a deficit. They can feel frustrated with their lack of success and believe they should have “tried harder.” As a result of difficulty in school and social settings with peers, girls can develop low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. These symptoms can also make diagnosing ADHD difficult. As their challenges become greater, they have increased difficulty achieving goals and maintaining motivation.

The Science Behind ADHD: Unraveling the Mystery of Your Daughter’s Diagnosis

It is important to understand that there is no single cause of ADHD in girls. Research suggests that genetic, environmental, and neurological factors influence ADHD. Some potential contributing factors include a family history of ADHD, exposure to substances like lead, alcohol, or tobacco during pregnancy, brain trauma or injury, and being born prematurely or with low birth weight. Parents and caregivers must seek professional evaluation and support to better understand and manage ADHD in girls.

Research has not identified one specific cause of ADHD in girls. Certain factors can contribute to the condition, such as:

Family history of ADHD
Prenatal exposure to lead, alcohol or tobacco
Trauma or injury to the brain
Premature birth or low birth weight

Nurturing Success: Early Intervention and Collaboration Can Help Girls with Undiagnosed ADHD

While the exact cause of ADHD in girls remains unclear, it is evident that various factors can contribute to its development. Additionally, gender stereotypes can hinder the accurate assessment and identification of symptoms, further complicating the diagnosis process. Nonetheless, it is crucial to prioritize early detection and intervention to prevent potential negative impacts on daily life, including low self-esteem. Collaboration between parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals is essential to address concerns and ensure that appropriate treatment is initiated for girls with ADHD. By nurturing a support system and providing the necessary care, girls can successfully navigate their challenges and embrace their strengths, enabling them to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

After receiving a diagnosis of ADHD, girls need to receive ongoing psychiatric support to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being effectively. Psychiatric support is crucial in helping girls with ADHD understand their condition, cope with challenges, and develop daily life strategies.

Firstly, psychiatric support can provide a safe space for girls to express their feelings, concerns, and frustrations about their ADHD. This can greatly contribute to their emotional well-being, as they can discuss the impact of their symptoms on various aspects of their lives. The support of a compassionate and understanding psychiatric professional can help alleviate any shame or stigma associated with the diagnosis, enabling girls to embrace their strengths and build self-confidence.

In addition, psychiatric support can offer guidance on medication management. In some cases, medication may be recommended to help reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve focus and concentration. A knowledgeable psychiatric professional can work closely with the girl, her parents, and other healthcare providers to determine the most suitable medication and dosage. Regular follow-ups can ensure that the medication effectively manages symptoms while monitoring for any side effects.

Furthermore, the psychiatric support includes therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has proven particularly effective for individuals with ADHD. CBT can help girls develop coping mechanisms, organizational skills, time management techniques, and problem-solving strategies. This type of therapy also addresses the emotional and social challenges that often accompany ADHD, such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships. Additionally, therapy sessions can provide a platform for exploring and addressing any underlying psychological and emotional issues that may be intertwined with or exacerbated by ADHD.

After an ADHD diagnosis, girls can greatly benefit from the ongoing need for psychiatric support. Such support can provide a holistic approach to their well-being, helping them manage their symptoms, develop effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall quality of life. By availing themselves of this support, girls with ADHD can thrive and reach their full academic and personal potential.

Northlake Behavioral Health System advocates for early detection and treatment to support children in overcoming challenges and reaching their full potential.