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A recent study has revealed that 53 percent of adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) choose to keep their diagnosis to themselves. The trend is more pronounced among young women aged 18-34, with 66 percent opting for silence compared to 42 percent of young men, highlighting a potential societal bias.
The study, conducted by the non-profit organization Understood.org, surveyed 2,000 adults in the United States aged over 18. It found that 63 percent of adults with a learning or thinking difference wished they had been diagnosed earlier in life.
A significant finding from the study is the perception difference between genders regarding ADHD. Most adults (56 percent) agreed that women with ADHD were perceived differently than men. This sentiment was especially strong among women with ADHD, with 75 percent feeling they are viewed differently.
Laura Key, VP of content strategy and co-leader of the women’s initiative at Understood.org, pointed out that women with ADHD are more likely to be “undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, and misunderstood” compared to their male counterparts.
Despite the fact that 58 percent of adults know women are just as likely to have ADHD as men, misconceptions remain. The study highlighted that 75 percent of adults were unaware that women with ADHD are less likely to be diagnosed than men, and 72 percent did not know that women are more likely to be misdiagnosed.
Additionally, the study found that 87 percent of people were unaware of the inherent bias against women in ADHD testing tools.
These findings underscore the need for greater awareness and education regarding ADHD, especially concerning gender biases that affect diagnosis and treatment. By addressing these misconceptions, health professionals and society can better support individuals with ADHD and promote a more inclusive understanding of the condition.
