Breaking the Burnout Cycle: Why Women with ADHD are More Vulnerable to Burnout

ADHD burnout is a phenomenon experienced by individuals with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

People who experience ADHD burnout become overwhelmed and exhausted and experience declining functioning due to prolonged stress and demands. ADHD burnout can affect anyone with ADHD, regardless of gender. However, research has shown that women with ADHD are particularly vulnerable to burnout for various reasons, including societal expectations, hormonal fluctuations, and undiagnosed ADHD.

Research studies have shown that women with ADHD are more prone to burnout than men with ADHD. Here are some examples to support this:

A study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders in 2017 found that women with ADHD reported higher burnout levels than men with ADHD. The study also found that women with ADHD had more severe symptoms of anxiety and depression, which may contribute to burnout.

In a 2020 article published in ADDitude Magazine, Dr Michelle Frank, a clinical psychologist specialising in ADHD, s explained that she’s seen a higher incidence of burnout in women with ADHD in her practice. She noted that women with ADHD often have to balance multiple responsibilities and expectations, which can contribute to burnout.

Another study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology in 2019 found that women with ADHD reported higher stress levels and lower life satisfaction than men with ADHD. The study also found that women with ADHD were likelier to report feeling overwhelmed by their daily responsibilities.

A personal account shared in a 2018 blog post on Healthline by a woman with ADHD described her experience with burnout. She shared that she felt like she was “running on fumes” and struggling to keep up with her responsibilities. She also noted that her ADHD symptoms, such as forgetfulness and distractibility, were amplified during burnout.

These examples highlight the unique challenges women with ADHD face, which can contribute to burnout. Women with ADHD must recognise the signs of burnout and seek support to prevent further negative consequences on their well-being and functioning.

Women with ADHD often face significant challenges due to societal expectations that they should be organised, attentive, and able to multitask. These expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy and stress, contributing to burnout. Additionally, women with ADHD may experience hormonal fluctuations during their menstrual cycle, worsening their symptoms and contributing to burnout.

Another reason why women with ADHD are vulnerable to burnout is that they are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. ADHD is often perceived as a disorder that primarily affects boys and men. As a result, many women with ADHD are not diagnosed until adulthood, which can lead to years of struggling with symptoms, leading to burnout.

If you are experiencing ADHD burnout, it is essential to seek support from a mental health professional with experience in treating ADHD. They can help you develop coping strategies, manage your symptoms, and prevent burnout from happening again in the future. Getting enough sleep, exercising, and maintaining a healthy diet, can also help manage symptoms and to avoid burnout.

ADHD burnout can manifest in various ways, including physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms. Physical symptoms may include fatigue, headaches, and body aches.

Emotional symptoms may include feelings of overwhelm, irritability, and mood swings. Mental symptoms may include forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and decreased productivity.

Women with ADHD may experience burnout differently than men with ADHD. Women may experience more significant mood fluctuations, severe fatigue, and increased stress levels. Additionally, women may feel pressure to perform well in multiple areas of their life, such as their careers, family, and social relationships, which can contribute to burnout.

Undiagnosed ADHD in women can also contribute to burnout. Many women with ADHD may not realise they have the disorder until later. As a result, they may not have received adequate treatment and support, leading to years of struggling with symptoms and potentially increasing the risk of burnout.

Preventing burnout in women with ADHD involves several strategies, including creating structure and routine in daily life, setting realistic expectations, practising self-care, and seeking support from healthcare professionals. Women with ADHD may benefit from working with a therapist or coach who has experience treating ADHD, as they can provide strategies and support to manage symptoms and prevent burnout.

In conclusion, ADHD burnout is a natural phenomenon that can significantly impact the lives of women with ADHD. It is essential to recognise the signs of burnout, seek support, and develop strategies to manage symptoms and prevent burnout from happening again. With the proper support and self-care practices, women with ADHD can thrive and reach their full potential.