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How Is ADHD in Girls Different During Diagnosis? 

PostedOctober 16, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD in girls often looks different from the more recognised symptoms typically seen in boys, which can make diagnosis more complicated. Girls are more likely to show inattentive symptoms rather than hyperactive ones, and these behaviours can be mistaken for daydreaming or shyness rather than being linked to ADHD in girls. 

This difference can lead to delayed or missed diagnoses, especially if a child is doing well academically or behaving quietly in class. Understanding the gender differences ADHD presents is important for both parents and healthcare professionals to ensure girls are not overlooked. Highlighting specific behaviours, emotional struggles, or changes in self-esteem can help bring clarity during an assessment. 

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Common Signs That May Be Missed 

Knowing what to look for in ADHD in girls can support more accurate identification and support. 

Inattentiveness Over Hyperactivity 

Girls may appear distracted, forgetful, or disorganised rather than overly active or disruptive. 

Emotional Sensitivity 

High emotional reactivity, anxiety, or trouble with friendships may reflect underlying diagnostic challenges girls face. 

Masking Behaviour 

Some girls work hard to hide their difficulties, leading to underreporting of symptoms at school or home. 

Being aware of how ADHD in girls can present differently means families can advocate more confidently and seek timely help. 

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 How to talk to doctors or get assessed. 

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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.