Are Women with ADHD More Likely to See GPs Before Psychiatrists? 

Yes, women with ADHD are more likely to see GPs before psychiatrists, especially in the early stages of seeking help. For many women, ADHD symptoms can be subtle and misunderstood, often presenting as anxiety, depression, or stress rather than attention-related issues. As a result, they may first visit their GPs for advice or treatment, assuming their symptoms are related to something more common, like mood disorders or hormonal imbalances. This initial point of contact in primary care can delay the diagnostic pathway, as GPs may not always have the training or resources to spot ADHD in women. 

Why Women See GPs First 

Several factors explain why GPs and ADHD women are often the first point of contact: 

Symptom presentation 

 ADHD in women is often characterised by inattentive symptoms like forgetfulness, disorganisation, and difficulty focusing, which may be misattributed to other conditions like anxiety, stress, or depression. When women experience these issues, they are more likely to see a GP first, believing their symptoms are related to mood disorders or other health issues. 

Primary care accessibility 

GPs are the first healthcare professionals women typically visit for general health concerns. With ADHD symptoms often being less overt in women, it can be difficult for GPs to immediately recognise the underlying cause. Women may also report their struggles as more emotionally driven, prompting the GP to consider conditions like depression or anxiety first, which can lead to misdiagnosis. 

Limited ADHD awareness in primary care 

GPs may not be fully aware of how ADHD manifests in women, particularly because the condition is often studied and diagnosed more frequently in men. As a result, ADHD may not always be considered a primary concern, leading women to pursue other routes for treatment. 

The Role of Psychiatrists in the Diagnostic Pathway 

Seeing a psychiatrist is an important step in accurately diagnosing ADHD, especially if a woman’s symptoms have been missed or misdiagnosed by a GP. Psychiatrists are trained to evaluate complex mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, and they can better identify ADHD in women. Once a woman is referred to a psychiatrist, they can receive a thorough assessment that leads to the right diagnosis and treatment. 

However, the journey from GPs and ADHD women to psychiatric care can take time, and the lack of immediate referral can delay the implementation of effective coping strategies, medications, and support. 

Improving the Diagnostic Pathway 

For a more efficient diagnostic pathway, GPs need increased training in recognising ADHD, particularly in women. This can lead to quicker referrals to specialists and better care for women with undiagnosed ADHD. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for consultations that help bridge the gap between primary care and psychiatric support. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Late diagnosis and gender differences.