Study Highlights Real Experiences Of ADHD Diagnosis For Adult Women

Women diagnosed with ADHD as adults are continuing to experience systemic barriers to accessing health services and support, a University of Queensland study has found.

The study, led by Dr Kate Witteveen from the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, explored the experiences of 30 women aged between 22-72 years, who were interviewed as part of a large-scale study.

“Many women reported they experienced scepticism and resistance when raising the possibility of ADHD with their health care providers and difficulty accessing specialists,” Dr Witteveen said.

“Even with a referral it was still a difficult process for many women - some reported their referrals were not accepted at first, and many faced long waiting times and high financial costs.”

Co-author Dr Denis O’Hara said more women were being diagnosed with ADHD across the globe, with rates almost doubling for women aged 23-49 between 2020 and 2022.

“Despite this increase in diagnostic rates, women remain more likely than men to be diagnosed later in life,” Dr O’Hara said.

“We found ADHD impacts all domains of a woman’s life, and while receiving a diagnosis is a relief for many, it isn’t a solution to the challenges of living with ADHD.

“Women faced negative interactions with health and education systems, stereotyping, difficulties with relationships, and impacts on self-esteem and physical health.”

Dr Witteveen said while more research is needed to better understand the full extent of ADHD’s impact on women, the first step is clarifying misconceptions.

“Much of what is believed about ADHD is based on stereotypes and outdated information,” Dr Witteveen said.

“For example, emotion dysregulation and rejection sensitivity are central components of the ADHD experience, but these aren’t captured in current diagnostic criteria.

“The current diagnostic data was developed around boys, so even the criteria to receive a diagnosis as a female does not adequately reflect the breadth of experience for people with ADHD.”

Dr Witteveen said it was encouraging to see governments implementing changes, such as allowing some Queensland GPs to diagnose ADHD in adults, which came into effect in December 2025.

“Increasing accessibility and affordability for diagnosis is an important first step. There is also a need for a variety of psychosocial supports women with ADHD, particularly post-diagnosis,” she said.

The research is published in International Journal for the Advancement of Counselling.
 

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