Exploring women’s experiences of a late ADHD diagnosis: Unveiling a personal superpower through reflexive thematic analysis

Kelly, T, May, B, Porter, C and Palace, M ORCID: 0000-0003-3016-2118 Exploring women’s experiences of a late ADHD diagnosis: Unveiling a personal superpower through reflexive thematic analysis. Journal of Attention Disorders. ISSN 1087-0547 (Accepted)

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Abstract

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remains underdiagnosed in women, with many receiving a diagnosis later in life. This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of women who received an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood, addressing a limited gap in the current literature. Twelve women aged 45 to 58 participated in semi-structured interviews, which were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three key themes were identified: Discovering ADHD: Revealing the Hidden Struggles, Battling the Emotional Storms of ADHD, and Living with ADHD. Participants described years of misdiagnosis, internalised stigma, and emotional dysregulation, often compounded by hormonal fluctuations that impacted symptom severity and medication efficacy. Despite these challenges, many women reframed aspects of their ADHD, particularly hyperfocus, as a functional strength and described their diagnosis as profoundly validating. The study highlights the need for improved gender-sensitive diagnostic practices, clinician awareness of ADHD symptom presentation across the female lifespan, and tailored treatment approaches that account for hormonal changes. Findings suggest that the benefit of a timely diagnosis and supportive clinical engagement can facilitate psychological adjustment and enhance the quality of life for women with ADHD. This research contributes to the growing call for more inclusive, gender-informed ADHD assessment and management strategies.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	1701 Psychology; Developmental & Child Psychology; 5201 Applied and developmental psychology; 5202 Biological psychology; 5203 Clinical and health psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman
Divisions:	Psychology (from Sep 2019)
Publisher:	SAGE Publications
Date of acceptance:	1 July 2026
Date Deposited:	07 Jul 2026 13:20
Last Modified:	07 Jul 2026 13:20
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/28939

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