What You Need To Know

Inattentive ADHD is presented with more internalized symptoms such as getting easily distracted, low concentration, and poor organization

Hyperactive ADHD presents as fidgeting, hard to sit still, and interruptions such as talking out in the classroom

Women are more likely to have inattentive ADHD but are severely under-diagnosed

Boys ADHD symptoms are overt and seen, while girls ADHD symptoms sneak under the radar and go unnoticed

While inattentive ADHD is more commonly seen in girls, it is not exclusive.

• Forgetfulness

• Disorganization

• Low self-esteem

• Anxiety

• Hyper-talkative*

• Emotional reactivity*

*these symptoms would present as hyperactive ADHD in girls

• • • Comorbidity

    • ADHD is often not a "stand alone" diagnosis

    • Diagnoses that usually tie in with ADHD include "depression, tics, Tourette’s syndrome, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders, and learning disabilities," (Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2005).

    • ADHD is frequently misdiagnosed as anxiety/depression

    • If left untreated...

      • • • low self esteem

          • substance abuse

          • self-harm

          • depression

          • anxiety

...in adulthood

"Women whose ADHD is not diagnosed are less able to be consistent parents, less able to manage their jobs and households, and at higher risk for divorce and single parenting," (Nadeau, 2002)

• Not having an ADHD diagnosis as a child can have huge consequences-- Pay attention!