ADHD, perimenopause, and late diagnosis: key takeaways from my 2025 International Women’s Day talks
This March, I had the privilege of speaking at two incredible events for International Women’s Day, both focused on ADHD, perimenopause, and the unique challenges women face when navigating late diagnosis.
These conversations are so important because, for many women, ADHD is missed or misunderstood until much later in life—often when perimenopause brings symptoms to the forefront. Sharing insights, support, and practical steps to help women understand their neurodivergent brains was a truly rewarding experience.
Webinar with Elizabeth Willits – Investing in Women (6th March)
I joined Elizabeth Willits, founder of Investing in Women, for a webinar discussing:
How ADHD presents differently in women – Many women with ADHD mask their symptoms or are misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression.
Why so many women are diagnosed later in life – Societal expectations and outdated diagnostic criteria mean ADHD often goes unnoticed in girls and women.
The impact of perimenopause on ADHD – Fluctuating hormones can make executive function struggles worse, leading to more challenges in work and daily life.
How to seek an ADHD diagnosis – Understanding assessment routes, including NHS referrals and Right to Choose, can make the process smoother.
How ADHD coaching can help – Coaching provides real-life strategies to help women understand, manage, and thrive with their ADHD.
It was an insightful session with fantastic engagement. So many women are just starting to connect the dots about how ADHD has shaped their experiences, and it was empowering to provide them with practical next steps.
Live discussion in Barnstaple with Alex Kelly – Waymakers North Devon (8th March)
On 8th March, I was in Barnstaple for a live International Women’s Day event with Alex Kelly from Waymakers North Devon. This was a fantastic opportunity to speak directly with women in the community and engage in an open discussion about:
How ADHD shows up in daily life – The unique ways ADHD affects women, from time management struggles to emotional regulation and sensory overload.
Navigating diagnosis and support routes – Understanding the options available and the challenges within the system.
How coaching can be transformational – We discussed how coaching supports neurodivergent women to build self-awareness, create strategies, and improve their quality of life.
What really stood out in both sessions was the need for more awareness and support. Women are still facing barriers to gaining assessments, feeling dismissed by medical professionals, or struggling to articulate how ADHD affects them—especially when perimenopause intensifies symptoms.
Why these conversations matter
These discussions reaffirmed just how powerful community and shared experience can be. Many women feel isolated in their struggles, unsure whether what they’re experiencing is “normal” or if they should seek help. The reality is:
✨ You are not alone.
✨ Your struggles are real and valid.
✨ There are ways to navigate ADHD that make life easier.
Whether through coaching, medical support, or community discussions, there are steps you can take to better understand and work with your neurodivergent brain.
If any of this resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Are you navigating a late ADHD diagnosis, or do you suspect ADHD might be part of your experience?
Wondering how ADHD coaching can work for you?
Book your FREE 15 minute discovery call and I’ll be happy to chat about your options.