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In a heartfelt account, Kat Frize, a 39-year-old mother from the Midlands, shares her arduous journey toward receiving a life-altering diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). After years of navigating challenges such as chronic fatigue, relationship difficulties, and frequent accidents, she finally received her diagnosis at the age of 37. Her story shines a light on the ongoing issue of underdiagnosis among women and girls, a concern echoed by mental health professionals who warn of the systemic barriers that prevent many from receiving the support they need.
The Journey to Diagnosis
Frize’s path to understanding her ADHD began with the birth of her daughter, who has since been diagnosed with both ADHD and autism. This prompted Frize to explore her own symptoms, leading her to seek a diagnosis. Faced with an extensive NHS waiting list, she made the decision to pursue private assessment, a privilege not available to many.
Reflecting on her experience, Frize described the profound impact of her diagnosis. “The first day I took medication was a moment of great revelation,” she recalled. “For the first time, my mind felt quiet and clear.” This newfound clarity has allowed her to better engage with her family and community.
Underdiagnosis and Its Consequences
Despite the growing awareness of ADHD, particularly in adults, studies indicate that women are still significantly underdiagnosed. Research presented to the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology last year highlighted that women receive their diagnosis approximately five years later than men, despite showing symptoms at similar ages. This discrepancy suggests that traditional perceptions of ADHD, which often emphasise hyperactivity and impulsiveness, overlook the subtler manifestations of the condition in females.
Dr Chris Abbott, chief medical officer at Care ADHD, elaborated on this point. “Girls with ADHD may not exhibit visible hyperactivity or impulsivity,” he explained. “Instead, they often struggle in less obvious ways, such as difficulties with attention and organisation.”
Social expectations further complicate the situation. Many girls learn to adapt by suppressing their symptoms to fit societal norms, a phenomenon known as “masking.” While this may allow them to appear successful externally, it often leads to internal struggles, including chronic stress and anxiety.
The Call for Change
As International Women’s Day approaches, Frize is advocating for increased awareness and support for women and girls with ADHD. She criticises narratives suggesting that mental health conditions are being overdiagnosed, labelling them as “completely inaccurate” and harmful to those suffering. “We owe it to our women and girls to give them the answers they need,” Frize urged. “With proper diagnosis and treatment, they can truly thrive.”
The NHS has acknowledged the significant delays many face in receiving ADHD assessments, particularly women and girls. A spokesperson stated that efforts are underway to redesign local services and reduce waiting times, following the recommendations of an independent ADHD taskforce.
In a related initiative, the government has committed £9.5 million for the 2025-26 period to support the inclusion of neurodiversity in schools, aiming to reach an additional 300,000 children who may be affected by conditions such as ADHD.
Why it Matters
The story of Kat Frize underscores the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how ADHD is perceived and diagnosed, particularly among women and girls. By recognising the unique challenges they face, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment that not only addresses their needs but also empowers them to thrive in all aspects of life. Increased awareness, timely diagnosis, and appropriate treatment can transform lives, paving the way for a brighter future for countless individuals who have long been overlooked.
