Exploring women’s experiences of diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood: a qualitative study

Abstract

Objective: Women are more likely, than men, to be diagnosed late with ADHD but there is a paucity of research on their experiences. This paper reports on women’s lived experiences of diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood. Methods: Fifty-two qualitative interviews were undertaken, between March 2022 and March 2023, with women aged 19–56 years. The participants were primarily university students, and were diagnosed, as an adult, with ADHD by a psychiatrist in England, United Kingdom. Interviews were undertaken online, through Microsoft Teams, lasting on average 1 h 15 min. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis generated six themes. Results: Participants reported difficulties in being referred from primary care services to specialist ADHD services. Diagnosis was seen as empowering, but this was often tinged with sadness due to previous experiences which were painful and traumatic. Others struggled to cope with the diagnosis due to ‘internalised ableism’ and perceived stigma. There was minimal mental health and psychological support from professionals after diagnosis and inadequate follow-up and monitoring of medication. Participants identified numerous reasons for not having been diagnosed as a child including gender and racialised stereotypes, successful masking behaviour, lack of professional knowledge about ADHD, a perceived over-emphasis on diagnosing mental health issues, and women being invisible and not listened to. Discussion: Increased training and awareness are needed for professionals on how ADHD presents in girls to support earlier diagnosis. Specialised ADHD psychological therapies are required, in addition to medication. Support after diagnosis including monitoring of medication needs to be strengthened.