Review of the Psychosocial Consequences of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Females

Abstract

Introduction: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is underrecognised and underdiagnosed in females. As a result, females often navigate years of symptoms without appropriate support, sometimes contributing to adverse outcomes for them and for those who try to support them. This review describes the experience of females with ADHD and explores and explains the main challenges they face. Methods: We distilled the most common themes expressed in the available literature on ADHD in females and used these to develop topic headings for a literature review. We then explored therapeutic options and identified future priorities for clinical research and development. Results: The commonest issues identified and explored related to the following topics: emotional development, friendships and relationships, handling conflict, self-harm and suicidality, creativity and hyperfocus, hypersensitivity, cognition and coordination, physical, psychological, and psychiatric comorbidity, and the effects of masking. We specifically considered the implications for serious self-harm, conflict, and criminal conviction among ADHD females, and explored how these risks may be mitigated with treatment. Discussion: Females with ADHD are both under-diagnosed and undersupported, despite the serious psychosocial consequences of this condition. Given that many of these carry potentially serious complications, recognition of these issues and the provision of appropriate support and intervention is of paramount importance if those who care for them professionally and/or personally are to respond effectively. Treatment mitigates adverse outcomes for many females with ADHD.