Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often thought of as a condition that only affects kids, but many people, especially women, are diagnosed much later in life. ADHD affects how the brain processes information, leading to challenges with focus, organization, impulse control, and time management. It’s not just about being “easily distracted”—it’s about how your brain functions in daily life, from work to relationships to overall well-being.

ADHD comes in three different types: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. Inattentive ADHD often looks like forgetfulness, trouble focusing, or losing track of tasks. Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD can show up as restlessness, interrupting, or difficulty sitting still. Many people experience a combination of both, which is called combined type ADHD. Each type presents differently, and understanding yours is key to figuring out the right strategies for managing it.

ADHD in women can often go unnoticed, especially because the symptoms may look different than the “classic” signs we often associate with ADHD. Women are more likely to be diagnosed later in life, often after years of developing their own ways to cope. Symptoms like forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, and emotional overwhelm are sometimes brushed off as stress or anxiety. But ADHD isn’t just a productivity problem—it impacts emotional regulation, relationships, and even self-esteem. Getting diagnosed is often the first step in understanding how to work with your brain, rather than feeling like you’re constantly working against it.

Check out more resources about ADHD on my blog.