5 Unexpected Signs of ADHD in Women

22nd March 2025

3 minutes read

Dr. Ali Ajaz, a consultant psychiatrist, has identified five key signs that may suggest the presence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in women. He highlighted the fact that these symptoms often go unnoticed, leading to delays in diagnosis and, consequently, in accessing appropriate treatment.

Dr. Ajaz, who frequently shares educational content on mental health through the TikTok platform, explained that ADHD is commonly associated with hyperactivity. However, in women, the condition often presents itself in a much more subtle and nuanced manner, making it harder to recognize. Instead of outward restlessness or physical hyperactivity, women with ADHD may experience a range of symptoms that predominantly affect their emotional well-being and cognitive functions. As a result, they may struggle with daily challenges without fully understanding the underlying cause.

In a video, Dr. Ajaz detailed several indicators that could suggest a woman has ADHD, including:

Overthinking and Mental Exhaustion

Women with ADHD often find it incredibly difficult to quiet their minds. Their thoughts may race continuously, replaying past conversations, analyzing every minor detail, and anticipating potential future scenarios. This constant mental chatter can be overwhelming and exhausting, draining their energy and making it difficult to focus on the present. Over time, this can lead to anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and even burnout.

Chronic Forgetfulness

ADHD frequently manifests as persistent forgetfulness, particularly in everyday life. Women with the disorder may regularly misplace essential items such as their phone, keys, or wallet. Additionally, they may struggle to remember scheduled appointments, deadlines, or even simple daily tasks. This forgetfulness is not due to carelessness but rather a cognitive processing issue, which can be frustrating both for the individual and those around them.

Feeling Overwhelmed by Simple Tasks

Routine tasks that others might find manageable—such as folding laundry, sorting paperwork, or paying bills—can feel insurmountable for women with ADHD. Even the thought of starting these tasks can provoke a sense of overwhelm, leading to procrastination or avoidance. As a result, they may be unfairly labeled as lazy or disorganized, when in reality, their brain simply processes tasks in a way that makes them feel disproportionately difficult.

Hyperfocus on Specific Interests

Despite struggling with attention and focus in many areas, women with ADHD often experience periods of hyperfocus, where they become completely absorbed in a particular activity or hobby. This intense level of concentration can cause them to lose all track of time, skipping meals, neglecting responsibilities, and forgetting about commitments. While hyperfocus can be a strength in certain contexts—such as creative projects or deep work—it can also become problematic when it interferes with daily responsibilities and social interactions.

Emotional Sensitivity and Intense Feelings

Women with ADHD tend to experience emotions more intensely than others. They may be highly reactive to criticism, rejection, or perceived slights, leading to heightened feelings of frustration, sadness, or anxiety. This heightened emotional sensitivity can make relationships, both personal and professional, more challenging. It can also contribute to mood swings, self-doubt, and a tendency to overanalyze social interactions.

Dr. Ajaz stressed that ADHD in women is frequently overlooked because its symptoms are less about physical hyperactivity and more about mental and emotional struggles. As a result, many women do not receive a diagnosis until adulthood—often after encountering significant difficulties in their careers, relationships, or general life management.

According to the National Health Service (NHS), ADHD in adults typically presents as difficulty staying organized, trouble concentrating, chronic stress, and impulsive decision-making. Without proper recognition and support, these challenges can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and an increased risk of anxiety or depression.

Dr. Ajaz emphasized the importance of raising awareness about ADHD in women, as well as the need for more research and understanding of how the condition manifests differently across genders. He encouraged those experiencing these symptoms to seek professional help, as early diagnosis and appropriate treatment—whether through therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes—can significantly improve quality of life.