The Impact of Undiagnosed ADHD in Women During Menopause

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has long been associated with children,

particularly boys. But growing research confirms what many women have known internally

for decades - ADHD doesn't go away with age, and for many women, symptoms become

more apparent and harder to manage during perimenopause and menopause.

For some, this hormonal shift becomes the very reason they seek help and receive a late

diagnosis, often for the first time in their 40s, 50s or beyond.

Why ADHD in Women Often Goes Undiagnosed

Women are historically underdiagnosed with ADHD, particularly those who present with the

inattentive subtype. Instead of hyperactivity, their symptoms may look like:

• Chronic forgetfulness

• Disorganisation

• Emotional sensitivity

• Difficulty focusing

• Low self-esteem

• People-pleasing or perfectionism

These traits are often masked, internalised, or explained away as anxiety, stress, or "just

being bad at adulting." Many women go through school, university, careers, and motherhood

feeling like they’re always one step behind - despite trying incredibly hard to keep up.

What Happens During Menopause?

As women approach perimenopause and menopause, levels of oestrogen begin to decline.

This hormone plays a key role in regulating dopamine, which is one of the main

neurotransmitters involved in ADHD.

According to Grady & Clegg (2011), oestrogen modulates dopaminergic pathways, meaning

that as hormone levels shift, executive function, memory, and attention can decline, even in

neurotypical women. But for women with undiagnosed ADHD, this hormonal change can exacerbate existing symptoms - or bring them into focus for the first time.

How Menopause Affects ADHD Symptoms

Many women report a significant increase in the severity or visibility of symptoms after 40,

especially during:

• Perimenopause (the years leading up to menopause)

• Menopause (when periods stop)

• Post-menopause

Common experiences include:

• Increased forgetfulness or “brain fog”

• Difficulty concentrating or following through

• Emotional instability or overwhelm

• Feeling scattered, disorganised or exhausted

• Heightened anxiety or frustration

A 2022 survey from ADHD UK reported that over 80% of women who were diagnosed later

in life said that menopause triggered a worsening of symptoms and was a major factor in

them seeking an assessment.

The Emotional Toll of Late Diagnosis

Women often describe their late ADHD diagnosis as life-changing, but it can also bring up

grief. Many reflect on a lifetime of feeling "too much" or "not enough" - constantly

second-guessing their capabilities, parenting, or professionalism.

Without understanding the cause, women may have been told they’re lazy, disorganised,

overly sensitive, or emotionally erratic. The internalised shame from these labels can lead to:

• Low self-worth

• Imposter syndrome

• Burnout

• Depression or anxiety

• Struggles in relationships or parenting

Some women also turn to maladaptive coping mechanisms, including overworking,

perfectionism, or even substance misuse, to manage their inner chaos.

Getting an ADHD Diagnosis During or After Menopause

The good news is that it's never too late to gain clarity. Whether you're in your 40s, 50s or

beyond, a proper ADHD assessment can help explain why things have felt harder than they

“should” - and more importantly, what you can do about it now.

At Bright Star ADHD, we offer in-depth ADHD assessments, led by a Clinical ADHD Nurse Specialist. Our approach is compassionate, thorough, and designed to take your entire life story into account - not just a tick-box list of symptoms.

Your report will include clear recommendations, treatment options (including support with

medication if appropriate), and lifestyle strategies that align with where you are now.

You Deserve to Understand Your Brain

If you're finding it harder to cope with focus, memory, or emotions during midlife - and

nothing else quite explains it - ADHD could be part of the picture.

It’s not just about getting a label. It’s about understanding your own mind with compassion

and getting the support you need to thrive, not just survive.

Ready to Learn More?

Start by taking our quick and confidential free online ADHD pre-assessment, or explore how

a private adult ADHD assessment works at Bright Star.

Take the Free ADHD Pre-Assessment

Learn about ADHD Assessments for Adults

We’re here to help you feel seen, supported, and in control - no matter what stage of life

you’re in.