Is a woman doctor the best doctor for ADHD in women?
Not necessarily — but it is important to have a doctor who understands the different ways ADHD shows up in women compared to men. Women are often diagnosed later in life, frequently as adults, because their symptoms are less obvious and more internalized.
In childhood, just over 9% of children are diagnosed with ADHD, with a boy-to-girl ratio of a little more than 2:1. By adulthood, the overall prevalence of ADHD drops to around 6%, and the male-to-female gap narrows — with men only about 50% more likely to be diagnosed than women.
Women with ADHD tend to exhibit less obvious symptoms. They often present with more subtle traits, particularly inattentiveness, which manifests as internal hyperactivity — such as mental restlessness, disorganization, and a tendency toward distraction.
Women also experience a higher rate of associated conditions: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional dysregulation are more common. Many become adept at masking these symptoms early on, which can delay diagnosis into adulthood and contribute to increased relational and personal difficulties.
Men, by contrast, are typically diagnosed much earlier. Their symptoms tend to be more external and disruptive: impulsivity, physical hyperactivity, and a greater tendency toward risk-taking or rule-breaking behaviors.
Because women’s symptoms are often missed until adolescence or adulthood, a targeted, gender-aware approach is warranted. Emotional challenges tend to be more intense in women, while their symptoms remain more internalized compared to the more outward behaviors often seen in men.
Although the severity of ADHD is similar in both genders, the way it presents can differ significantly. Individualizing care with this understanding in mind can lead to better outcomes and an improved quality of life.
— Angela E. O’Neil, M.D.
Gender matters — and so does experience.
At Next Level Concierge, we understand the unique ways ADHD presents in women. From late diagnoses to emotional masking, our team is trained to recognize what others often miss.
👉 Learn more about our customized ADHD care for women and families — including advanced diagnostics, integrative options, and a deeper understanding of how to help you thrive.