A recent revelation by Kat Frize, a 39-year-old mother from the Midlands, highlights the alarming prevalence of undiagnosed ADHD in women, a condition that often goes overlooked or misdiagnosed. After battling personal challenges for nearly four decades, Frize finally received her diagnosis at the age of 37, a pivotal moment that she describes as life-altering. As International Women’s Day approaches, she urges society to acknowledge and address the ongoing struggles faced by women and girls with ADHD.
A Long Journey to Diagnosis
Frize’s journey to understanding her ADHD was fraught with difficulties. Throughout her life, she experienced debilitating exhaustion, challenges in maintaining relationships, and numerous hospital visits due to accidents. The turning point came when her daughter, who has now been diagnosed with both ADHD and autism, prompted Frize to assess her own symptoms. Faced with lengthy NHS waiting lists for an assessment, she opted for private care, a decision she acknowledges not everyone can afford.
Two years after seeking help, Frize finally received appropriate treatment, marking the first time she felt her mind was calm and clear. “The first day I took medication was a moment of great revelation,” she remarked, highlighting the stark difference in her mental clarity.
Awareness and Advocacy
As Frize reflects on her experience, she emphasizes the urgent need for increased awareness surrounding ADHD, particularly in women and girls. She firmly rejects claims made by figures like Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who suggested that mental health conditions are being overdiagnosed. “It’s not that we overdiagnose; it’s that we’ve been underdiagnosing for so many decades,” she asserted. With research indicating that ADHD is diagnosed in women approximately five years later than in men, Frize’s message resonates with urgency.
Dr Chris Abbott, Chief Medical Officer at Care ADHD, elaborates on the complexities of diagnosing ADHD in females. He points out that girls often do not exhibit the typical hyperactive or disruptive behaviours associated with the condition. Instead, they may struggle with attention and organisation in ways that are less visible, leading to internalised challenges rather than outward disruptions.
The Cost of ‘Masking’
Many women and girls with ADHD develop sophisticated coping mechanisms, known as ‘masking’, to navigate societal expectations. This often involves over-preparation and the suppression of their true feelings, which can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and low mood. “While it may look like success on the outside, internally the cost is very real,” Dr Abbott explains.
Frize’s own experiences echo this sentiment. She recounts numerous instances where her ADHD could have been recognised and addressed much earlier, from medical assessments for her fatigue to repeated hospital visits. “I think a lot about the missed opportunities,” she said, reflecting on a past filled with unrecognised struggles.
The Need for Change
Frize’s diagnosis and subsequent treatment have profoundly impacted her life, allowing her to be a more engaged and present mother. However, she acknowledges that many women still face significant barriers in accessing care. Current estimates suggest that over half a million individuals are on NHS waiting lists for ADHD assessments.
In response, an NHS spokesperson affirmed the commitment to improving ADHD care, particularly for women and girls. They highlighted initiatives to redesign local services and reduce waiting times, alongside broader societal actions needed to support those with ADHD.
Government initiatives, including a recent allocation of £9.5 million to enhance neurodiversity support in schools, aim to address these pressing issues. Yet, advocates like Frize stress that more is needed to ensure that no one is left without the necessary support or feeling adrift in their care.
Why it Matters
The challenges faced by women with ADHD are not just personal—they reflect broader systemic issues in how mental health conditions are understood and treated. Frize’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early diagnosis and tailored support. As we honour International Women’s Day, it is crucial to listen to these voices, advocate for change, and ensure that all individuals receive the recognition and care they deserve. The journey towards understanding and addressing ADHD in women is not merely about the individuals affected; it is about fostering an inclusive society where everyone can thrive.
