How different is Adult ADHD in men and women?

ADHD isn't just a childhood disorder, roughly 4% of American adults over the age of 18 struggle with ADHD daily. Symptoms for men are different than for women who are also under-diagnosed more significantly. 

Men tend to fall under the "hyperactive-impulsive" type of ADHD; problems focusing, impulsiveness, excessive activity, or restlessness. Whereas women with ADHD are more likely to experience "inattentive type"symptoms; difficulty staying focused or organized consistently, paying attention to details, and remembering tasks or conversations. Women who do experience hyperactive symptoms have learned to mask, distort, and camouflage their symptoms.

"Many women clients who are in therapy for anxiety and depression sometimes find out that they actually had ADHD all along. This is where talking to a professional could help them distinguish what they are experiencing is anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a combination of diagnoses." - Linda Yoon, Therapist & Founder of Yellow Chair Collective 

If any of the above symptoms are impacting your life, it is time to talk with your health care provider about a diagnosis that might include ADHD. Different types of health care professionals may diagnose and supervise treatment for ADHD. Treatments can be a combination of medications, counseling, therapy, daily journaling, and education. Seek a provider who has training and experience in caring for adults with ADHD. 

List of resources: 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350883?p=1)

https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/facts-statistics-infographic

https://www.buzzfeed.com/ravenishak/adhd-symptoms-in-women-according-to-therapist