Inatentive ADHD In Women: What You Need To Know

Inattentive ADHD can be difficult to recognise, especially in women, as they are more likely to mask their symptoms. 

However, knowing the signs of this neurodevelopmental disorder and how they can present in women helps you get that crucial diagnosis sooner. Once diagnosed, you’ll be able to access support and treatment plans to manage the condition day-to-day.

To help you get a better understanding of the condition, we’ll go over common inattentive ADHD symptoms in women, what inattentive ADHD is, and how to get diagnosed in this blog. 

What Is Inattentive ADHD in Women? 

Inattentive ADHD in women is a type of ADHD which causes more internal, often discreet, symptoms for those diagnosed with the condition. 

Whereas ADHD causes hyperactivity and high-energy behaviour, inattentive-type ADHD is associated with daydreaming, disorganisation, and forgetfulness. Women with the condition often seem shy or in their own heads. 

Some symptoms do overlap. For example, both types can make emotional regulation difficult, as well as sitting still for long periods. However, in general, inattentive ADHD symptoms are more discreet to friends, family, or those around the person

Signs & Symptoms of Inattentive ADHD in Women

Inattentive ADHD symptoms in women look different from the type of ADHD most people are familiar with. 

As the inattentive type of ADHD doesn’t have the hyperactivity and high-energy traits that we’re used to seeing, it can be slightly harder to recognise. However, there are common inattentive ADHD symptoms in women you can look out for, including: 

• Lack of concentration 
• Difficulties listening
• Racing thoughts
• Procrastination
• Easily distracted
• Emotional dysregulation
• Poor impulse control
• Forgetfulness
• Anxiety

While these symptoms can seem difficult to manage, with suitable strategies tailored to your needs, they are completely manageable. 

As with any neurodivergent condition, inattentive ADHD is unique to the individual. As such, what one person may experience, another might not. 

How Does Inattentive ADHD in Women Present in the Day-to-Day? 

Inattentive ADHD in women can often present in specific ways in day-to-day life, making it easier to spot once you know what you’re looking for. 

For example, as women with inattentive ADHD often experience racing thoughts, it’s common for them to interrupt when people are talking. For some, this may come across as rude, but that isn’t the case. It’s simply that you’re getting a view of what their brain is doing on a daily basis. 

Other ways inattentive ADHD symptoms in women can present include:

• Fidgeting, especially when sitting for long periods of time
• Blurting out answers before the question has been fully asked
• Talking excessively and at a noticeably fast pace
• Losing or misplacing personal belongings
• Getting distracted during conversations 
• Not finishing work tasks, projects, or personal hobbies

It’s important to remember that inattentive ADHD is unique to the individual. While it may present in all of the above ways for some, another person may experience only a few, or even others that are personal to them. 

Is Inattentive ADHD Different In Women and Men? 

Yes, inattentive ADHD symptoms in women are often different to how they look in men. 

One of the biggest differences is that the symptoms for women tend to be more subtle, while men display more overt symptoms of the disorder. For example, women struggle with concentration and zoning out during conversation. Men are more likely to show impulsivity. 

However, there are more differences to be aware of between inattentive ADHD symptoms in women and men. Check out our table below for more. 

As a result of these differences, many women with inattentive ADHD go undiagnosed, often for longer periods of time than men, too. 

In fact, studies suggest that women get diagnosed five years later than men, on average. What’s more, it’s estimated that around 80% of women with ADHD are misdiagnosed for other conditions like borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, or anxiety. 

As such, knowing the unique ways inattentive ADHD presents in women is essential to be able to get an accurate diagnosis. 

Why Are Women with Inattentive ADHD Misdiagnosed? 

Put simply, women with inattentive-type ADHD are often misdiagnosed because their symptoms are more likely to be internal, meaning they aren’t always easy to notice. 

Women often experience symptoms such as anxiety, daydreaming, racing thoughts, or disorganisation. For the person experiencing them, these symptoms can be all-consuming. However, for those on the outside looking in, they may not notice they are happening at all. 

Additionally, women often mask their symptoms. Masking is when symptoms of ADHD are consciously or unconsciously suppressed. Typically, women do this to try to fit societal expectations of being organised and emotionally regulated. 

Does Menopause Affect Inattentive ADHD in Women?

As women get older, they start to enter perimenopause and menopause, which can actually affect inattentive ADHD. 

As estrogen levels start to decline during the perimenopause and menopause, the dopamine levels can begin to reduce as well. As such, it’s common for some women with inattentive ADHD to experience more brain fog, a lack of focus, as well as emotional dysregulation during this time. 

What’s more, as the symptoms of menopause and inattentive ADHD can be similar, dealing with both conditions daily can be draining. Over time, it can lead to burnout, especially as women can mask their symptoms of ADHD. 

How is Inattentive ADHD in Women Diagnosed? 

While symptoms of inattentive ADHD can be harder to spot, making diagnosis slightly trickier, it is still possible to be tested and diagnosed for the condition. 

Typically, there are five steps to take before you get diagnosed with inattentive ADHD, which are: 

Step 1: Initial screening of symptoms and history of the individual

Step 2: Additional information is gathered from family and friends

Step 3: You’ll be invited for an interview with a psychologist to discuss symptoms

Step 4: You’ll have psychological testing from recognised frameworks (DIVA-5) 

Step 5: Your clinical team will assess findings and test results to decide your diagnosis. 

After these five steps, you’ll be invited back to the clinic to discuss the results, as well as treatment methods if you do receive a diagnosis. 

We know seeking a diagnosis can be daunting, especially as a woman with inattentive ADHD – but it doesn’t need to be. Getting a diagnosis grants you access to a wealth of support, making the day-to-day a bit easier. 

How Is Inattentive ADHD in Women Treated?

While there is no cure for inattentive ADHD in women or men, there are ways to manage the condition to make the day-to-day easier. 

✓ Medication: Stimulants are commonly used to manage inattentive ADHD. Medications such as Ritalin or Concerta can help boost the attention span, making concentration easier. 

✓ Therapy: A therapist can help you build coping mechanisms to rely on during the day when symptoms of inattentive ADHD feel too difficult to manage. 

✓ Lifestyle Changes: Small, but effective, lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and following a balanced diet can help manage symptoms. 

✓ Mindfulness: Practising yoga, meditation, or even journaling can help manage the anxiety and concentration difficulties that come with inattentive ADHD. 

It’s important to note that not every management method will work for every person. Work alongside your GP to find the right balance for you. 

Neuroaffinity Give Professional Diagnosis for Inattentive ADHD in Women

Here at Neuroaffinity, we’re passionate about helping people get that crucial diagnosis for inattentive ADHD – that’s why we designed our private ADHD assessments for women. 

With us, you can skip the long wait times you may find elsewhere to get an accurate diagnosis faster, getting you support as soon as possible. Get in touch with our friendly team today to see how we can help. 

You can contact us via phone on 0776 856 5162 or send an email to enquiries@neuroaffinity.co.uk. Alternatively, fill out our contact form and a member of our team will be in touch.