A growing trend of ADHD diagnoses among women is prompting concern from some medical professionals, who suggest that many may be misdiagnosed and that other common conditions or lifestyle factors could be the true culprits. Dr. Ellie, writing in the Daily Mail, notes a significant increase in diagnoses, particularly among middle-aged women, and questions the broadening criteria for identifying the disorder.
According to an analysis of NHS records by health data company IQVIA, ADHD diagnoses among British women aged 31 to 49 rose by 694 percent between 2020 and 2025. Dr. Ellie points to celebrity endorsements and increased public awareness as potential drivers of this surge, with figures like actress Gwyneth Paltrow and singer Lily Allen speaking publicly about their own diagnoses.
However, Dr. Ellie argues that the current diagnostic landscape may be too broad, citing NHS examples of symptoms like 'feeling restless' and 'not liking waiting' as indicators. She suggests that these could apply to a wide range of individuals, leading to an "almost inevitable" diagnosis. The doctor also observes a disparity in diagnosis rates, noting that people in affluent areas like north-west London are three times more likely to be on ADHD medication than those in Yorkshire.
Many of these new patients, Dr. Ellie observes, are mothers who seek diagnosis after their children are assessed for ADHD. The doctor suggests that the rise in diagnoses may be fueled by a burgeoning private healthcare sector, where clinics have a financial incentive to diagnose more patients due to long NHS waiting lists. These clinics, she states, advertise on social media, linking common issues like lack of motivation or lateness to ADHD.
Dr. Ellie posits that stressed midlife women, potentially experiencing menopause, sleep deprivation, or career ennui, may be particularly vulnerable to these interpretations. She emphasizes that ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder with hallmarks present from childhood, and it does not typically manifest for the first time in adulthood. Misdiagnoses, she warns, can lead to significant financial costs, with private assessments potentially costing £1,000, and can distract from identifying and treating the actual underlying issues, such as menopause or depression.
Instead of immediately seeking an ADHD diagnosis, Dr. Ellie advises women experiencing symptoms like tiredness, anxiety, and difficulty focusing to first consider simpler explanations. She suggests lifestyle changes, such as reducing screen time and engaging in activities like reading, as potentially effective and less costly interventions. While acknowledging that adults can have ADHD, she stresses that such cases are rare and urges individuals to consult their GP for a proper assessment.