In this Article:
Understand the real impact of untreated ADHD on your life.
Learn how untreated ADHD affects your loved ones.
Recognize the common symptoms of ADHD in adult women.
Discover the benefits of getting a diagnosis at any age.
Find out how an ADHD diagnosis can improve your quality of life.
Maybe a friend, loved one, or even social media has you questioning if you have ADHD. As an adult woman, you might think, "Why bother? I’ve made it this far." It’s easy to dismiss ADHD as just a trendy diagnosis or believe it doesn’t matter at your age. But here’s the truth: getting a diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly enhance your quality of life, regardless of how old you are.
Perhaps Your Thinking
“I’ve managed this long without a diagnosis, why now?”
“Isn’t ADHD just an excuse for laziness?”
“I’m too old to get diagnosed.”
“Won’t a diagnosis just label me?”
The Hidden Toll of Undiagnosed ADHD in Women
You might be wondering, “Why do I feel so different, stupid, or lazy?” Without a diagnosis, it's easy to fall into self-blame and feel overwhelmed by inadequacy. Research shows that women with ADHD are more prone to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, insomnia, and even suicidal thoughts. ADHD can also make it challenging to maintain relationships, parent effectively, manage finances, and achieve your goals.
The good news? Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be transformative. For many women, it’s like a lightbulb turning on—a realization that there's a reason behind their struggles. This clarity helps you accept yourself, break free from shame, and take action to create a life that works with your brain, not against it.
While adults with ADHD often know what they should be doing, they struggle with actually doing it. No amount of willpower can erase a neurological difference, but ADHD-friendly education, strategies, and support can help you harness your strengths and make meaningful changes.
Benefits of Getting an ADHD Diagnosis at Any Age:
Finally Understand Yourself: Many women complain that tranditional counselling and interventions just did not work for them. A diagnosis can lead to improved self-esteem and identity. Let go of the shame and guilt, and empower yourself to create a life that functions with your brain’s unique needs.
Better Overall Health (Especially as You Age): With a diagnosis, you can access treatments and strategies specifically designed for ADHD, reducing anxiety, depression, and other related issues. Untreated ADHD often leads to difficulties in maintaining health due to missed appointments and poor self-care. Aging can worsen ADHD symptoms, with hormonal changes after 40 intensifying difficulties with focus, memory, and emotional regulation. Addressing ADHD can help manage these challenges and improve your quality of life.
Enhanced Relationships and Reduced Impact on Loved Ones: An ADHD diagnosis can improve interactions and communication, reducing strain on relationships. Untreated ADHD can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts, affecting how you connect with loved ones and parent effectively. Addressing ADHD helps create a more stable and supportive environment for those you care about.
Access to Necessary Treatments: A proper diagnosis allows you to advocate for yourself and access medical and psychological treatments covered by health care and insurance plans, ensuring you get the support you need now and as you age.
Safety and Aging in Place: Understanding how your brain functions can help ensure safety and a better quality of life as you age. It helps in creating accurate treatment plans, especially as lifelong strategies no longer work.
Learn more about ADHD in Women, What to Expect During your Assestment, and How Counselling can help ADHD with or without Medication by reading our other blogs and joining our mailing list.
Ready to explore how an ADHD diagnosis can change your life? Reach out to Candice at Adrift Counselling today! Book a Chat and Connect call to discuss your concerns and discover how ADHD-friendly strategies can help you thrive. Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, jump right in and schedule your first appointment. Let’s work together to create a life that truly works for you.
-Candice Mann is a Registered Master Social Worker and Certified ADHD Counselor with over 20 years of experience in the field. As the Founder and Therapist at Adrift Counselling, she specializes in adult ADHD and brings personal insight as a late-diagnosed ADHD adult. Her professional background includes a decade of neuro-rehabilitation work for acquired brain injury at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Stroke Unit. Candice is also a certified Capacity Assessor. Her lived experience and extensive expertise uniquely position her to help clients navigate and thrive with ADHD.
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