MissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women Channel Hyperfocus: “Who are we missing?” One doctor’s lifelong fight for women with ADHD
Feb 20, 2025
Join Dr. Kathleen Nadeau, a pioneer in ADHD research for women, as she tackles the gender biases within the medical community. With decades of experience, she highlights the historical neglect of ADHD in women and calls for a reevaluation of diagnostic criteria. Dr. Nadeau shares insights on how societal norms have distorted perceptions of ADHD, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of women's unique experiences. Dive into discussions about self-esteem, social connections, and the ongoing fight for women's health in ADHD research.
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Early ADHD Diagnosis Bias
- Dr. Kathleen Nadeau noticed in her early career that ADHD patients were mostly young, hyperactive boys.
- She realized adults, especially women and girls, were being overlooked and untreated for ADHD.
ADD Diagnoses Spark New Awareness
- Dr. Nadeau experienced a flood of ADD diagnoses in boys due to new laws allowing school accommodations.
- Mothers often noted their own similar struggles, revealing ADHD's intergenerational aspect and persistence into adulthood.
Recognizing Different ADHD Presentations
- Predominantly inattentive ADHD is less disruptive and allowed more girls to be diagnosed.
- Boys' biological hyperactivity explains why ADHD was initially seen primarily in hyperactive boys.
