Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Girls

Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Girls

ADHD symptoms in girls can be very different than in boys. ADHD has been a disorder usually associated more with boys but more girls are being diagnosed as our understanding of ADHD deepens. It is more common for girls to have inattentive ADHD in which daydreaming, and shyness occur. Whereas boys are more likely to have combined ADHD, where they are more impulsive and hyperactive.

Symptoms of ADHD in Girls

ADHD symptoms in girls are often thought to be their personality characteristics; which is why it is often over looked. Here are some symptoms of ADHD in girls:

• hyper-talkative (has a lot to say but is not good at listening)
• easily distracted
• appears withdrawn
• forgetful
• cries easily
• day dreaming
• no motivation
• makes “careless” mistakes
• verbally impulsive (blurts out answers and interrupts)
• shifting from one activity to another
• disorganized and messy

ADHD is overlooked in girls

It is often overlooked in girls because the symptoms of hyperactivity are different in boys and girls. At school, boys might continuously blurt out answers or repeatedly tap his foot whereas girls might demonstrate hyperactivity by talking incessantly. A girl who talks all the time is known as “chatty” not hyper and therefore is less inclined to have an evaluation.

Experts believe that clinicians miss the diagnosis because:

• they more often have internalized (and less noticeable) symptoms
• they’re more likely to use coping strategies that help hide their symptoms
• parents and teachers are less likely to refer girls for diagnosis and treatment

Girls with ADHD can have serious risks

Girls can suffer more negative effects than boys. Surveys showed that girls are more likely to repeat a grade than boys due to bad school performance. When a boy struggles, he is more likely to be evaluated for ADHD and diagnosed rather then held back. Whereas with girls, it is believed that she will benefit by being held back for a year. But after the year, she is no better because the source of the problem was not figured out.

ADHD symptoms often don’t improve without treatment, and undiagnosed ADHD can worsen over time. Even milder symptoms can cause plenty of distress and affect daily life at school or home, along with friendships and relationships.

Diagnosing ADHD

If you believe your child has any of these symptoms and/or is struggling in school. Please see your healthcare provider. To get a diagnosis, the doctor will request that the parent or guardian fill out a questionnaire as well as the teacher. Once the results are in the doctor will determine the next steps.

Treatment

The recommendation is usually the same for boys and girls, medication and therapy. ADHD is a lifelong disorder and will need help through adulthood.

Ways to help

• Support them
• talk with school about an IEP
• compliment their successes
• eat healthy and exercise
• have a routine (having structure and a strict clear schedule can make it easier to stay on track)
• all caregivers are on the same page
• try not to yell to get their attention (this will cause more harm than good)

Risk Factors for ADHD

• low birth weight or premature birth
• a family history of ADHD
• prenatal exposure to pestisides
• prenatal exposure to alcohol or tobacco
• trauma or injury to the brain

My story

My daughter just turned 8 years old and is in 3rd grade. For the past few years, I have been told by her teachers that she talks a lot and that she lacks focus. She is not impulsive. At school they see no signs of hyperactivity. At home, I find when she is reading or doing homework, she is all over the place. She fidgets and moves around alot. I find myself having to tell her to stop moving. I just had a meeting with her teacher and reading teacher.

She is struggling with reading. Her reading level is lower than that of her peers. She is also the youngest student in the classroom. Her teacher and reading teacher believe it is due to her lack of focus when reading. There is state testing at the end of the school year and if she does not pass there is a chance, she will have to repeat third grade. This does not make me happy.

I do believe she has some of the symptoms of ADHD and I have decided to have her evaluated. My son who is 10 years old does have ADHD combined type and has been on medication since kindergarten. I do not want her to struggle in school. I will have an update once I take her for the evaluation.

Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Girls

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