Is There a Link Between ADHD and Tics in Girls and Women?

PostedSeptember 25, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 29, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD and tics in women can sometimes co-occur, though the relationship between the two conditions is not fully understood. Tics, which are involuntary movements or sounds, are more commonly associated with Tourette’s Syndrome, but they can also be seen in individuals with ADHD. Girls and women with ADHD are more likely to experience motor tics (involuntary movements) or vocal tics (involuntary sounds), though these symptoms are often less recognised than the core symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention or impulsivity.

The connection between ADHD and tics in women may be linked to underlying neurodevelopmental disorders. Both ADHD and tics are neurological conditions that can overlap, and they share some similar genetic and environmental risk factors. In some cases, the presence of ADHD may exacerbate the frequency or severity of tics, or vice versa, making diagnosis and treatment more complex.

Common Symptoms

Motor and Vocal Tics in Women with ADHD

Women with ADHD who experience motor tics or vocal tics may notice that these symptoms become more pronounced during times of stress, frustration, or when they are feeling overwhelmed. These tics can cause social or emotional distress, especially when they are misunderstood or overlooked.

Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Co-occurring Conditions

The overlap of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as ADHD and tic disorders, can complicate both diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the link between ADHD and tics in women is essential for providing comprehensive care that addresses both conditions.

Recognising the connection between ADHD and tics is crucial for ensuring proper diagnosis and treatment, helping women with ADHD manage both their attention-related symptoms and tics effectively.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Girls and women with ADHD.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.