A closer look at ADHD for girls

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Girls

Do girls get ADHD? The short answer is "yes," but it doesn't always look the same as in boys. For a long time, it was thought that girls didn't get ADHD. However, research has shown that not only do girls get ADHD, but it can also look different than in boys. Boys tend to show obvious hyperactivity and disruptive behaviors, while girls usually have more subtle symptoms like daydreaming, disorganization, and emotional sensitivity. Because these signs are less noticeable, girls often go undiagnosed or get diagnosed later in life, missing out on the early support they need to thrive.

Common concerns for girls with ADHD

• Messiness and disorganization across settings (e.g., backpack, locker, bedroom)

• Frequently losing or forgetting items they need

• Easily upset or overreactive to small issues

• Difficulty processing information quickly

• Hyper talkative and frequently interrupting others

• Trouble staying on task in distracting environments

• Difficulty with time management

• Problems relaxing both at home and school

• Seeming to be "out of it" for long periods of time

• Lack of planning, facing consequences afterward

• Excessive forgetfulness

• Appearing not to listen

• Losing motivation as soon as the material becomes hard or tedious

• Not having restraint ("I need to do it now," "I need an answer now")

• Being defiant

• Overly emotional

• Overtalking or excessive moving/fidgeting

• Overall poor self-control

• Can't seem to get organized or stay organized