The Overlap: Why ADHD Symptoms Can Worsen During Menopause

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, executive function, emotional regulation, and impulse control. In women, it often goes undiagnosed until later in life, in part because symptoms tend to be internalised (like inattentiveness or anxiety) rather than externalised (like hyperactivity).

Enter menopause.

During perimenopause and menopause, levels of estrogen—a hormone that plays a major role in brain function—begin to drop. Estrogen helps regulate the availability of dopamine, the key neurotransmitter involved in ADHD. As estrogen decreases, so does the brain’s dopamine efficiency.

The result? For women with ADHD, menopause can intensify symptoms like:

   •          Forgetfulness

   •          Disorganisation

   •          Mental fog

   •          Emotional volatility

   •          Fatigue and burnout

Even women who have never been formally diagnosed with ADHD may start to feel like they’re “falling apart,” only to later realise that ADHD was always there—just masked by structure, estrogen, or coping strategies that no longer work.

Real Talk: “I Thought I Was Losing My Mind”

Many women describe menopause + ADHD as a perfect storm. Tasks that were once manageable now feel overwhelming. Emotions feel harder to regulate. The internal dialogue becomes more critical: Why can’t I focus? Why am I so forgetful? Why do I feel so irritable all the time?

The truth is, you’re not broken—and you’re definitely not alone.

Increasingly, women are beginning to talk openly about this experience, breaking the silence around both ADHD and menopause. It’s not that you’re failing—your brain is simply going through a massive neurological shift.

What Can You Do?

If you suspect that ADHD may be playing a role in your menopause symptoms, here are some steps to consider:

1. Seek a diagnosis

If you’ve never been formally diagnosed with ADHD, consider seeking a comprehensive evaluation from a clinician who specialises in adult ADHD and understands the unique ways it presents in women.

2. Consider Hormonal Support

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) isn’t right for everyone, but for some women, it can help stabilise estrogen levels and reduce the intensity of cognitive and mood symptoms. Discuss it with a doctor who is informed about both menopause and ADHD.

3. Medication Adjustments

If you’re already on ADHD medication, your needs may change during menopause. Some women find their stimulant dosage needs adjusting, or that non-stimulant options work better at different life stages.

4. Mind-Body Strategies

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, structured routines, and self-compassion practices can all play a key role in managing symptoms. Don’t underestimate the power of regular sleep, hydration, and protein-rich meals.

5. Community Support

There’s a growing network of women sharing their stories about ADHD and menopause. Joining online groups or local support communities can help you feel less isolated—and more empowered.

Final Thoughts

Menopause isn’t just a hormonal issue—it’s a neurological one. And for women with ADHD, it’s an opportunity to finally understand their brain on a deeper level.

This chapter of life can be frustrating, yes—but it can also be clarifying. You deserve support, validation, and the right tools to thrive.

You’re not lazy. You’re not losing your mind. You’re just learning how to meet your brain where it’s at.

 If this has raised any issues for you, please feel free to get in touch. We offer a free 15-minute phone consultation, or if you would like to make an appointment for either a face to face or online counselling session whichever is convenient.