A woman from the Midlands has shared her poignant journey towards discovering her attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis, shedding light on the alarming trend of underdiagnosis among women and girls. Kat Frize, now 39, received her diagnosis at the age of 37 after years of grappling with a range of challenges, including overwhelming fatigue and difficulties in relationships. With International Women’s Day approaching, Frize is urging society to recognise the critical need for improved awareness and support for women living with ADHD.
A Personal Revelation
Frize’s turning point came with the birth of her daughter, who has since been diagnosed with both ADHD and autism. This prompted her to explore her own experiences more deeply. After facing a daunting NHS waiting list, she opted for a private assessment, a privilege not shared by many. It was only after two years of searching for the right treatment and medication that she experienced a transformative moment—the first time her mind felt clear and at peace.
“The first day I took medication was a moment of great revelation,” Frize recalls. “For the first time in my life, my brain became quiet and clear.”
Frize’s story is emblematic of the experiences of many women who remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, often leading to years of unnecessary struggles.
The Gender Gap in ADHD Diagnosis
Research highlights a significant disparity in the diagnosis of ADHD between genders. Studies indicate that while the ratio of diagnosed boys to girls in childhood is approximately 3:1, this ratio evens out to about 1:1 by adulthood. This suggests that many girls are overlooked in their younger years, with symptoms often manifesting differently than in boys. Women may experience internal hurdles, such as issues with concentration, organisation, and time management, which can be misconstrued as a lack of effort or interest.
Dr Chris Abbott, Chief Medical Officer at Care ADHD, explains, “Girls with ADHD don’t always fit our idea of what ADHD looks like. They often mask their symptoms, striving to conform to societal expectations, which can lead to chronic stress and anxiety.”
This phenomenon of ‘masking’ can result in women developing sophisticated coping strategies that may appear successful on the outside but carry a heavy toll on their mental health.
The Need for Increased Awareness and Support
Reflecting on her own missed opportunities for diagnosis, Frize emphasises the necessity for heightened awareness around ADHD in women. “It’s not that we overdiagnose; it’s that we’ve been underdiagnosing for so many decades,” she asserts. “When women receive the answers they need, they can truly thrive. Without that, they are at risk of facing numerous challenges.”
Currently, over half a million people are reported to be on NHS waiting lists for ADHD assessments. Frize, now the Chief Operating Officer at Care ADHD, calls for urgent improvements in access to services and research funding. “My diagnosis and treatment have been genuinely life-changing,” she notes, adding that it has allowed her to be a better mother to her children.
Government Response and Future Actions
In response to the pressing need for improvements in ADHD care, an NHS spokesperson acknowledged the long waiting times faced by women and girls seeking diagnosis. Efforts are underway to implement recommendations from an independent ADHD taskforce aimed at redesigning local services and reducing waiting times.
A government representative also commented on the issue, stating, “No one with ADHD should feel left without clear clinical oversight. We have initiated an independent review to enhance the delivery of ADHD, mental health, and autism services to ensure patients receive the appropriate support.”
Furthermore, an investment of £9.5 million for the year 2025-26 has been announced to extend the Partnerships for Inclusion of Neurodiversity programme in schools, reaching an estimated 300,000 children.
Why it Matters
Frize’s personal experience and the broader issues surrounding ADHD diagnosis in women underscore a critical and often overlooked aspect of mental health care. As awareness grows, it is imperative that society recognises the unique challenges faced by women living with ADHD. Ensuring timely and accurate diagnoses is essential not only for their well-being but also for fostering an environment where they can thrive. Addressing these gaps in awareness and care is crucial in empowering women and girls to navigate their lives with the understanding and support they deserve.
