Demystification of ADHD in Menopause
Loading...
Authors
Ziegler, Anita
Issue Date
2025-11-10
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
ADHD , climacteric , attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder , females , hyperactivity/impulsivity , inattention , menopause , older , reproductive hormones , women
Alternative Title
Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition affecting 4%–6% of the Canadian population. While traditionally considered a childhood disorder, particularly among males, increasing numbers of adult females are being diagnosed, often after years of misdiagnosis or untreated symptoms. Research on ADHD in older women, especially during the climacteric period (CP), remains limited despite its growing relevance to counselling and therapeutic practice. This scoping review of current literature explores how hormonal transitions during perimenopause and menopause influence ADHD symptom severity, diagnostic timing, and treatment efficacy. Using an intersectional feminist poststructural framework, recent literature was analyzed to identify current knowledge and gaps. Findings indicate hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen, exacerbate ADHD symptoms, contributing to diagnostic delays and increased comorbidities such as anxiety and depression. Treatment challenges include reduced medication efficacy and the absence of female-specific guidelines. Evidence suggests that multimodal approaches, combining pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions, are most effective, with consideration of hormonal influences. These findings underscore the need for greater awareness of ADHD in climacteric women and highlight the importance of early screening, tailored interventions, and collaborative care. Addressing these gaps can improve clinical outcomes and enhance counselling practices for an often-overlooked population.
Description
Citation
Publisher
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess