ADHD & Menopause

Written By Kelly Rigo

ADHD—Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder—is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. In everyday terms? Your brain struggles to stay on task. Following directions, staying still, or avoiding interruptions? Zip. Gone.

While ADHD is typically diagnosed in childhood, it often persists into adulthood—and frequently goes undiagnosed, especially in women.

Why? Women are pros at masking symptoms to meet social expectations. But here’s the kicker: during your 40s and 50s, hormonal shifts from perimenopause and menopause can make ADHD symptoms significantly worse. If you’re feeling more overwhelmed, mentally foggy, or forgetful—you're not imagining it.

  ADHD and Hormonal Shifts: The Hidden Link

A survey by ADDitude magazine asked 1,500 women—both diagnosed and undiagnosed with ADHD—about their symptoms during menopause. The findings were eye-opening:

  • 94% said menopause worsened their ADHD symptoms

  • Brain fog and memory issues topped the list

  • 70% said symptoms had a life-altering impact

Dr. Kathleen Nadeau, PhD, notes that women often internalize ADHD struggles—trying to "fit in"—which can lead to serious mental and physical health consequences, including:

  • Chronic stress

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Sleep disorders

  • Fibromyalgia

  Misdiagnosis is Common

During perimenopause and menopause, ADHD symptoms can mimic or overlap with anxiety and depression. Hormonal fluctuations, especially drops in estrogen, don’t help—estrogen plays a key role in cognitive function and neurotransmitter activity.

  What You Can Do?

  • Consult a medical professional for a proper ADHD evaluation.

  • Consider ADHD medication to manage symptoms.

  • Explore Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to stabilize estrogen levels and improve cognitive function.

  • Exercise regularly—it boosts dopamine, improves mood and focus, and reduces hyperactivity.

  • Revamp your nutrition: Cut back on caffeine and alcohol and add supplements like creatine for cognitive and sleep support.

Kelly Rigo is the creative force behind Menopause Evolution

Kelly Rigo
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