Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Yes. ADHD underdiagnosis in girls is a well-documented issue, and much of it comes down to how inattentive ADHD presents. Unlike the more visible hyperactivity seen in many boys, ADHD symptoms in girls often show up as quiet daydreaming, forgetfulness, or emotional sensitivity behaviours that are frequently overlooked or misread.
This subtle presentation leads to fewer referrals for assessment, even when girls are struggling. As a result, many grow up without a diagnosis, only to discover the truth in adolescence or adulthood often after years of academic pressure, low self-esteem, or untreated mental health struggles.
Why Are ADHD Gender Differences So Often Missed?
Here’s why ADHD underdiagnosis in girls is still so common:
Inattentive symptoms fly under the radar
Girls with inattentive ADHD may seem polite, quiet, or disorganised but not disruptive enough to raise concerns.
Cultural expectations
Girls are often socialised to “keep it together,” masking symptoms that might otherwise stand out.
Biased diagnostic criteria
Much of what we know about ADHD comes from studies on boys, meaning girls’ experiences are underrepresented in clinical guidelines.
In conclusion, this gender gap in diagnosis means girls often miss out on early support that could make a significant difference in school and personal development. Improving awareness of ADHD gender differences is essential to closing the diagnosis gap for girls.
Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation.
For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Overdiagnosis vs. Underdiagnosis in ADHD.
Avery Lombardi, MSc
Author
Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.
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.
