In a poignant reflection on her journey, Kat Frize, now 39, shares the profound impact of her late diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her life, including exhaustion and frequent accidents, it wasn’t until she was 37 that she received the diagnosis she describes as “life-changing.” As International Women’s Day approaches, Frize’s story underscores a concerning trend: women and girls with ADHD are often overlooked and underdiagnosed.
A Long Road to Diagnosis
Frize’s path to understanding her condition was fraught with difficulties. For years, she grappled with chronic fatigue and struggles in her personal relationships, often landing in hospital due to accidents stemming from her undiagnosed ADHD. The birth of her daughter, who has since been diagnosed with both ADHD and autism, prompted her to investigate her own experiences. With long waiting lists for NHS assessments, Frize felt compelled to seek private care, a privilege not available to many.
After two years, Frize finally received the appropriate treatment. The first day she took her medication marked a turning point, bringing clarity to her previously chaotic mind. “It was a moment of great revelation,” she recalled, realising how much her condition had impacted her daily life.
The Gender Gap in ADHD Diagnosis
Frize’s experience highlights a troubling disparity in ADHD diagnoses between genders. Research indicates that while boys are diagnosed at a rate of roughly three to one compared to girls in childhood, this ratio evens out to one-to-one in adulthood. A recent study presented at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology revealed that women receive their ADHD diagnoses about five years later than men, despite showing symptoms at a similar age.
Dr Chris Abbott, chief medical officer at Care ADHD, elaborates on this phenomenon, noting that girls often exhibit less overtly disruptive behaviours, which can lead to their symptoms being overlooked. “Girls may struggle with attention and organisation, presenting as daydreaming or forgetfulness,” he explains. This invisibility is compounded by societal expectations that encourage girls to conform, leading many to develop coping mechanisms that mask their struggles.
The Harsh Reality of Masking
As Frize reflects on her own life, she acknowledges the many moments where ADHD could have been recognised earlier had there been greater awareness. The emotional toll of living undiagnosed can be significant; many women engage in “masking,” where they adapt their behaviour to fit societal norms, often at the expense of their mental health. This can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and low mood, creating a cycle of struggle that persists unnoticed.
Frize’s diagnosis has been transformative, enabling her to embrace her identity and better support her children. “I can be a better mum to my kids,” she states, highlighting the positive impact of understanding her condition.
Calls for Change
With over half a million individuals reportedly waiting for ADHD assessments on the NHS, there is an urgent need for reform. Frize, now the chief operating officer at Care ADHD, advocates for increased awareness, support, and research into ADHD, particularly for women and girls. She criticises narratives suggesting that mental health conditions are being overdiagnosed, labelling them as “distressing” and “completely inaccurate.”
An NHS spokesperson acknowledged the challenges that women and girls face in accessing timely diagnoses, stating that efforts are underway to improve ADHD care and reduce waiting times. Furthermore, the government has committed £9.5 million for the 2025-26 period to enhance neurodiversity support in schools, aiming to reach 300,000 children.
Why it Matters
The experience of women like Kat Frize sheds light on the critical need for heightened awareness and better diagnostic practices regarding ADHD. As more women and girls come forward with their stories, it becomes clear that understanding and addressing ADHD in females is vital, not only for individual well-being but for fostering inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. The fight for proper recognition and support for ADHD in women is not just a personal battle; it’s a societal imperative that demands attention and action.
