ADHD decoded: Key symptoms, gender bias, and strategies to thrive

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders, impacting children, adolescents, and adults. ADHD is more prevalent in certain ethnic groups and there are notable gender differences which will be explored in this article.

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Despite increasing awareness, ADHD is still widely misunderstood, especially in women. In this article, we’ll explore the key symptoms of ADHD according to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition), the tools used to assess it,  the unique ways it presents in women and how to cope with it.


Symptoms of ADHD 

The DSM-5 classifies ADHD into three main types based on the dominant symptoms:

  • Predominantly inattentive presentation - struggle to focus, easily distracted and appear to be daydreaming.
  • Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation- restless, talkative and overactive.
  • Combined presentation (both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms).

To receive an ADHD diagnosis, symptoms must be persistent for at least six months, occur in multiple settings (e.g. home, work, school), and significantly impact social, academic, or occupational functioning. The symptoms are categorised into two main domains: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

1. Inattention symptoms

According to the DSM-5, individuals with ADHD may exhibit six or more of the following symptoms (for adults, five or more):

  • Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes.
  • Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or activities.
  • Often seems not to listen when spoken to directly.
  • Fails to follow through on instructions or finish tasks.
  • Difficulty organising tasks and activities.
  • Often avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
  • Frequently loses items necessary for tasks (e.g. keys, phones, paperwork).
  • Easily distracted by external stimuli or unrelated thoughts.
  • Often forgetful in daily activities (e.g. missing appointments).

2. Hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms

For hyperactivity-impulsivity, individuals may exhibit six or more of the following symptoms (for adults, five or more):

  • Frequently fidgets, taps hands/feet, or squirms in their seat.
  • Difficulty remaining seated in situations where it is expected.
  • Often feels restless or experiences an inner sense of being driven.
  • Inability to engage in quiet activities.
  • Talks excessively.
  • Blurts out answers before questions are completed.
  • Difficulty waiting for their turn.
  • Interrupts or intrudes on others' conversations or activities.

How is ADHD assessed?

Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation. Clinicians rely on a combination of clinical interviews, behavioural observations, and standardised rating scales. Here are some commonly used measures:

Clinical interviews:

  • Structured or semi-structured interviews with the individual and close contacts (e.g. parents, teachers, partners).
  • Explore developmental history, symptom patterns, and impact on daily life.

Standardised rating scales:

  • Conners rating scale: Evaluates ADHD symptoms and related behaviours.
  • Adult ADHD self-reports scale (ASRS): A self-assessment tool for adults.
  • Vanderbilt ADHD diagnostic rating scale: Commonly used for children, capturing feedback from parents and teachers.
  • Brown executive function/attention scales (Brown EF/A): Measures executive functioning challenges related to ADHD.

Neuropsychological testing:

  • Assesses attention, working memory, and other cognitive functions to provide additional insights.

Observation across settings:

  • Symptoms need to appear in more than one environment (e.g. home and work/school) to meet diagnostic criteria.

How does ADHD present differently in women?

Historically, ADHD was thought to primarily affect boys, leading to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis in girls and women. However, we now understand that ADHD manifests differently in different groups of people, and women often experience unique challenges. Here’s how ADHD may present in women:

1. Inattentive symptoms are more common

Women are more likely to have the inattentive subtype of ADHD. Instead of hyperactivity, symptoms may appear as daydreaming, forgetfulness, or difficulty focusing. These subtler signs are often mistaken for laziness, lack of effort, or anxiety.

2. Masking and coping mechanisms

Women with ADHD may develop coping strategies to hide their symptoms (known as masking). They may overcompensate by being hyper-organised or perfectionistic, which can lead to burnout and anxiety.

3. Emotional dysregulation and self-esteem issues

Many women with ADHD experience heightened emotional sensitivity, mood swings, and difficulty managing frustration. Low self-esteem is common due to repeated struggles to meet societal expectations or feeling like they are “falling behind.”

4. Hormonal influences

Fluctuations in hormones (e.g. during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause) can worsen ADHD symptoms in women. This variability can make diagnosis and treatment more challenging.

5. Coexisting conditions

Women with ADHD are more likely to experience co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, which can mask or complicate an ADHD diagnosis.

Why recognising ADHD in women matters

Delayed diagnosis and treatment can result in significant emotional distress, relationship difficulties, and professional challenges. By understanding how ADHD presents differently in women, healthcare providers, educators, and loved ones can better support them in seeking accurate diagnoses and effective interventions.

ADHD is a complex condition that impacts attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Recognising the key DSM-5 symptoms and using appropriate assessment tools are essential for diagnosis. Awareness of how ADHD manifests in women often through inattention, masking, and emotional dysregulation can lead to earlier intervention and better outcomes.

If you or someone you know resonates with these experiences, seeking professional evaluation, coaching or therapy can be a crucial first step toward understanding and managing ADHD.

ADHD coaching can be a transformative tool that helps you navigate these challenges and tap into your strengths.  ADHD coaching can empower women to thrive and unlock their potential whilst leveraging their unique strengths. ADHD coaching provides structure, routine, validation, and actionable strategies.


What is ADHD coaching?

ADHD coaching is a collaborative, goal-oriented process that helps individuals with ADHD develop personalised strategies to manage their unique challenges. Unlike therapy, which may focus on processing emotions or past experiences, ADHD coaching focuses on the present and practical solutions to the obstacles in your daily life.

An ADHD coach works with you to:

  • clarify your goals and priorities
  • identify your strengths and values
  • develop systems for time management and organisation
  • cultivate self-awareness and self-compassion
  • create accountability to stay on track

How ADHD coaching helps women

1. Tailored strategies for time management 

Women with ADHD often struggle to balance multiple roles (career, family, personal development) leading to a constant sense of overwhelm. ADHD coaching helps women to develop personalised techniques, like time-blocking, the Pomodoro method, and digital reminders, to manage their schedule more effectively. These strategies are tailored to your brain’s wiring, making them more likely to stick.

2. Reducing perfectionism and overwhelm 

Perfectionism and ADHD often go hand in hand. You may feel like nothing is ever "good enough," leading to procrastination or burnout. ADHD coaches help you reframe these unhelpful thoughts using cognitive-behavioural strategies, encouraging you to focus on progress rather than perfection. By breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, coaching helps reduce overwhelm and boosts productivity.

3. Building self-compassion and confidence 

Women with ADHD frequently internalise their struggles, believing they are lazy or incapable. An ADHD coach helps you challenge these negative self-beliefs and recognise your strengths. Through consistent encouragement, reflection, and support, coaching fosters a healthier self-image and builds resilience.

4. Setting boundaries and prioritising self-care 

Many women with ADHD have difficulty setting boundaries, saying yes to too many commitments and neglecting their own needs. ADHD coaching emphasises the importance of self-care and teaches you how to say “no” without guilt. By learning to prioritise your well-being, you gain more energy and focus on what truly matters.

5. Creating accountability and follow-through 

One of the most valuable aspects of ADHD coaching is the built-in accountability. Knowing you have regular check-ins with your coach motivates you to follow through on your goals. Your coach helps you troubleshoot obstacles, celebrate your wins, and stay committed to your personal growth.


Is ADHD coaching for you?

If you’re a woman who feels like ADHD is holding you back, coaching can offer the guidance and support you need to thrive. Whether you’re navigating your career, family life, or personal development, ADHD coaching equips you with the tools and strategies to manage your symptoms, reduce stress, and achieve your goals.

You don’t have to struggle alone. ADHD coaching is about recognising that you’re not broken, you’re just wired differently. By embracing your unique strengths and challenges, you can create a life that feels balanced, fulfilling, and authentically you.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out to a professional today to explore how ADHD coaching can empower your journey. Remember, you’re not alone and ADHD can become your superpower!

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This article was written with AI-assisted technologies and has been reviewed and edited with human oversight, in accordance with our AI policy.

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The views expressed in this article are those of the author. All articles published on Life Coach Directory are reviewed by our editorial team.

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Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 3HF
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Written by Martina Witter
ADHD , Confidence, Wellness, Lifestyle ,Career Coach
location_on Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 3HF
Martina Witter
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