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Is Postpartum Depression More Common in ADHD Women? 

PostedSeptember 3, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 3, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Postpartum depression in ADHD women is a topic of increasing concern, as both ADHD and postpartum depression can impact a woman’s mental and emotional well-being significantly. Research suggests that women with ADHD may be more vulnerable to developing postpartum depression due to the combined effects of hormonal changes and ADHD symptoms. 

The hormonal effects that occur after childbirth can lead to mood swings, fatigue, and emotional instability, all of which may worsen the challenges that women with ADHD already face, such as poor concentration and emotional dysregulation. These combined factors can increase the risk of developing postpartum depression in ADHD women, as the emotional and physical demands of motherhood may be harder to manage. 

How Postpartum Depression Affects ADHD Women 

Maternal mental health

For women with ADHD, the strain of balancing maternal responsibilities with ADHD-related symptoms can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, leading to depression. 

Hormonal changes 

The hormonal changes that occur after childbirth can trigger or amplify depression symptoms in women with ADHD, making them more susceptible to postpartum depression. 

Understanding postpartum depression in ADHD women requires acknowledging the compounded effects of both ADHD and hormonal fluctuations. Support and intervention tailored to these unique needs are vital for improving maternal mental health and preventing long-term emotional challenges. 

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 Depression.  

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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. 

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