In the 1980s, school was straightforward for Kate Jarvis. As a girl, she excelled academically, organizing her life with precision, like preparing her toothbrush before school. Her childhood nickname from her mother was ‘bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.’ But everything changed with puberty. Kate struggled to focus, and her academic performance declined, affecting her self-esteem. She faced anxiety and depression in high school without realizing the underlying cause: undiagnosed ADHD.
Jarvis wasn’t diagnosed with ADHD until her late 30s. This revelation explained the struggles she faced for 25 years. Despite having a diagnosis, addressing ADHD requires more than recognition. She felt pressure to ‘fix’ herself, illustrating the broader challenges facing those with late ADHD diagnoses.
“For decades, ADHD was seen as a childhood disorder primarily affecting boys.” – Julia Schechter, Duke Center for Girls and Women with ADHD
Julia Schechter explains that ADHD manifests differently in girls, often going unnoticed. Girls may appear distracted and disorganized, but not as hyperactive as boys, leading to later diagnoses. As a result, women might struggle with anxiety or depression, without realizing ADHD is the root cause:
- ADHD influences social relationships and impulse control.
- Women with ADHD face heightened risks: abuse, teen pregnancies, and mental health challenges.
- They also face higher incidences of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Misunderstandings about ADHD can overlook its severity. It’s more than just excuses for inconveniences. In recent years, awareness of ADHD differences by gender has led to increased diagnoses among women. Nearly 7 million women in the U.S. had an ADHD diagnosis by 2023.
Challenges in Midlife and Treatment Options
Women’s midlife can be a tipping point, as Ellen Littman notes, when complexities make managing symptoms difficult. Amy Reyer reached this breaking point at 48, caring for her family while pursuing a demanding career, only to realize her struggles stemmed from ADHD. Her diagnosis brought clarity and effective medication.
New research highlights that perimenopause exacerbates ADHD symptoms, with estrogen fluctuations influencing difficulties. Many women receive diagnoses during menopause, leading to critical self-understanding. Jeanette Wasserstein’s research backs this, noting increased brain fog and executive functioning issues in menopausal women with ADHD.
Treatment for ADHD isn’t limited to medication. Dr. Patricia Quinn suggests hormone therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, given the shame many women carry. Ellen Littman emphasizes reframing self-concepts positively, enhancing self-esteem. Kathleen Nadeau suggests lifestyle changes and supportive environments, focusing on strengths rather than struggles.
Lifelong Impact and Finding Joy
Ruth Danoff’s ADHD diagnosis at 50 illuminated her lifelong struggles. It prompted a career change toward advocacy, helping other women understand their ADHD challenges. Her dedication reflects the transformative impact a diagnosis can have.
Kate Jarvis advocates for diagnosis at any age, noting the self-acceptance and joy that follows. Recognizing ADHD’s impact leads to treatment and ultimately, new self-awareness. In her experience, a diagnosis brings newfound joy and acceptance.