ADHD is often thought of as a disorder affecting young children. You might have images in your mind of a small child unable to sit still, blurting out answers in class, or constantly losing things.
It’s true that ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, and it can certainly cause a child to struggle with focus and organization. However, that’s far from the full picture of this disorder, especially when it comes to teenage girls.
ADHD in teen girls often flies under the radar because it doesn’t always match the stereotypes listed above. Instead of being disruptive, many girls present with quieter, more internalized symptoms. That means they can spend years struggling without anyone realizing what’s going on, including themselves.
With that in mind, let’s break down what ADHD looks like in teenage girls.
Subtle Symptoms
Many teen girls with ADHD aren’t hyperactive the way young children are. Instead, they might zone out in class, get lost in thought during conversations, or seem “spacey.” Teachers might assume they’re trying hard enough, when in reality their brains are working overtime to keep up.
While boys are often identified by obvious hyperactivity, girls may show restlessness in subtler ways. That might include things like tapping a pencil on a table, bouncing a leg under the desk, twirling hair, or constantly chewing gum. They might not be climbing the walls, but the need to move is still there.
Teen girls with ADHD often struggle with forgetfulness, but it’s likely to look different. A teen girl might misplace her phone constantly, forget homework, or have a bedroom that looks like a tornado hit. Parents may interpret this as laziness or lack of responsibility, but in reality, it’s part of how ADHD impacts executive function.
Emotions Running High
Teenage years are already a rollercoaster of emotions, but for girls with ADHD, those emotions can feel especially overwhelming. They might cry easily, get frustrated quickly, or feel things more deeply than their peers. Mood swings can be mistaken for “just being a teen,” but they’re often tied to the regulation challenges that come with ADHD.
Additionally, some girls with ADHD overcompensate. Instead of being seen as “scattered,” they push themselves to keep everything in order. They strive for perfect grades, neat notes, always helpful to teachers and friends. On the outside, it looks like they have it all together. On the inside, they may feel exhausted and anxious because it takes so much effort to mask the struggles.
ADHD can also affect how teenage girls navigate friendships. Some might talk too much, interrupt without realizing, or have trouble reading social cues. Others may feel left out because they drift during conversations or forget plans. They often notice these missteps and end up feeling self-conscious, which can feed into low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression.
Why Understanding ADHD Matters
Because ADHD often goes unrecognized in teen girls, it’s not uncommon for those struggling to develop other issues. Years of feeling “not good enough,” being scolded for being messy, or struggling silently with school can take a toll. Sometimes, secondary conditions like anxiety or depression are diagnosed before ADHD ever comes up.
If ADHD in girls is missed, they can grow up thinking they’re just lazy, overly emotional, or bad at life’s basics. That’s a heavy burden to carry. But when it’s recognized for what it is, girls can get the right support, including therapy for ADHD.
Other management options, like medication and school accommodations, can also make a big difference, but getting the right diagnosis is key.
ADHD in teenage girls isn’t always as obvious as you might think. By paying attention to the quieter signs, including daydreaming, emotional intensity, perfectionism, and social struggles, you can help the teen in your life get the support and attention they deserve. If you’re ready to offer that support, contact us today to set up an appointment for them soon.
Our Specialists in Teenage ADHD:
Brianna Swenson-Brack, LMHC, RPT
Author: Jennifer Spencer, PhD, HSPP is the owner of Spencer Psychology, and a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience in mental health counseling in Bloomington IN. Spencer Psychology is committed to providing compassionate expert care in-person and by telehealth for Bloomington, the surrounding area and by telehealth for all of Indiana.