The Rising Tide of ADHD Diagnoses in Girls: A New Era of Research and Understanding
The number of ADHD diagnoses has surged in recent years, particularly among girls. According to data, 8.3 percent of girls aged 15-19 were using ADHD medication in 2024, compared to 4.7 percent in 2020. This increase highlights a growing awareness, but also a critical gap in research focused specifically on the female experience of ADHD.
Addressing a Historical Imbalance in ADHD Research
For too long, ADHD research has primarily focused on boys and men. This has led to underdiagnosis and ineffective treatment for girls, whose symptoms often manifest differently. Girls are, on average, diagnosed four years later than boys. This delay in diagnosis and support can exacerbate difficulties during formative years.
A new five-year project, involving leading ADHD researchers like Lotta Borg Skoglund, Lisa Thorell, and Helena Kallner Kopp, aims to bridge this knowledge gap. The project will involve multiple studies, gathering information through registers, interviews, and surveys.
Beyond Symptoms: Focusing on Real-World Impact
Researchers emphasize the importance of understanding how ADHD symptoms affect a girl’s daily life, rather than solely focusing on the symptoms themselves. Even strong ADHD symptoms can have less negative consequences with adequate support. This includes medication, but also strategies for social relationships and emotional regulation – areas where girls often struggle.
The project will investigate the connection between ADHD and other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, and chronic pain. Girls with ADHD are significantly more likely to seek healthcare than their peers without a diagnosis.
The Influence of Hormones and the Menstrual Cycle
A key area of investigation will be the impact of hormonal fluctuations on ADHD symptoms throughout the menstrual cycle. Preliminary research suggests that hormonal changes can worsen symptoms, but this remains a poorly understood area. Researchers will track participants using an app to gather data on symptom variations and identify problematic situations.
Adjusting medication dosage during certain phases of the menstrual cycle has shown promise in adult women, but its effectiveness in teenage girls remains unknown. The project also aims to address sexual and reproductive health, as girls with ADHD may face challenges with contraception and are at a higher risk of teenage pregnancy.
Combating Misinformation in the Digital Age
The researchers acknowledge the challenge of combating misinformation circulating on social media platforms. They aim to provide evidence-based insights to counter inaccurate claims and offer reliable guidance to girls and their families. For example, they want to provide a counter-narrative to the trend of interpreting research to suggest that managing life according to the menstrual cycle is always beneficial.
Emotional Regulation: A Central Focus
Emotional regulation is a recurring theme in the experiences shared by girls and women with ADHD. Many describe feeling “too much” – experiencing intense emotions, both positive and negative – which can lead to social difficulties, anxiety, and depression. The project will explore these challenges through surveys and interviews, seeking to identify effective support strategies.
Did you know? A diagnosis can provide understanding, insight, and realistic expectations for girls with ADHD, potentially leading to more effective treatment and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common symptoms of ADHD in girls? Symptoms can include inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and difficulty with organization.
Why are girls diagnosed with ADHD later than boys? Girls often present with different symptoms than boys, such as inattentiveness rather than hyperactivity, which can be overlooked.
How can hormones affect ADHD symptoms? Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some girls.
What kind of support is available for girls with ADHD? Support options include medication, therapy, educational accommodations, and strategies for emotional regulation.
Pro Tip: Advocate for your daughter’s needs and seek a comprehensive evaluation from a qualified healthcare professional if you suspect she may have ADHD.
Learn more about ADHD and available resources at Lotta Borg Skoglund’s website.
Share your story! Have you or someone you know been affected by ADHD? Leave a comment below and join the conversation.
