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As we approach International Women’s Day, the story of Kat Frize highlights a crucial issue: the significant underdiagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among women and girls. At 39, Frize reflects on her difficult journey to diagnosis at the age of 37, a process marked by years of challenges that many women face in silence. Experts warn that this issue remains pervasive, with many still waiting for the recognition and support they desperately need.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
Frize’s life before her diagnosis was characterised by various struggles, including chronic exhaustion, communication barriers, and frequent accidents that led her to hospitalisation. These challenges often left her questioning her capabilities and well-being. The real turning point came when her daughter was diagnosed with both ADHD and autism, prompting Frize to explore her own symptoms. Faced with long waiting times for an NHS assessment, she made the difficult decision to seek a private diagnosis, a luxury not available to many.
After two years of searching for answers, Frize experienced a transformative moment on her first day of medication. She described it as a “moment of great revelation,” where her mind quieted for the first time. This newfound clarity allowed her to reclaim aspects of her life that had previously felt out of reach.
The Underdiagnosis of ADHD in Women
As Frize prepares to share her story, she draws attention to the broader issue of ADHD diagnosis among women and girls. Research indicates that while boys are diagnosed with ADHD at a ratio of approximately 3:1 compared to girls in childhood, this ratio evens out to 1:1 by adulthood. This suggests that many women are overlooked during their formative years and receive a diagnosis much later in life, often around five years after their male counterparts.
Dr Chris Abbott, chief medical officer at Care ADHD, emphasises that girls with ADHD often do not fit the traditional stereotype associated with the disorder. Instead of exhibiting hyperactivity or impulsiveness, they may struggle with attention and organisation, leading to behaviours that can be misinterpreted as daydreaming or forgetfulness. Cultural expectations also play a role, as many girls learn to mask their symptoms, presenting a facade of success while battling internal challenges. This phenomenon, known as “masking,” can lead to chronic stress and emotional turmoil.
The Call for Change
Frize’s personal experiences underscore the urgent need for greater awareness and support for women with ADHD. She highlights the many missed opportunities for diagnosis throughout her life, noting how her symptoms could have been addressed much earlier had there been a greater understanding of ADHD in women.
In light of her journey, Frize advocates for improved access to diagnostic services and treatment options. Her work as the chief operating officer at Care ADHD enables her to push for systemic changes within healthcare that prioritise women’s mental health needs. “We owe it to our women and girls to give them the answers they need,” she asserts. “When they have answers, they can truly thrive.”
The NHS acknowledges the pressing need for reform in ADHD care, with a spokesperson admitting that too many women and girls are left waiting too long for assessments. Steps are being taken to implement recommendations from an independent ADHD taskforce aimed at transforming local services and reducing waiting times.
Why it Matters
The journey of women like Kat Frize reveals a critical gap in mental health services that disproportionately affects half of the population. As awareness of ADHD continues to grow, there is a pressing need for society to recognise the unique challenges faced by women and girls. By prioritising diagnosis and treatment for this often-overlooked group, we can foster an environment where individuals thrive, rather than merely survive. Addressing these issues not only improves the lives of those affected but enriches our communities as a whole, fostering a more inclusive society that values mental health for all.
