Is It ADHD or Just Menopause? A Growing Concern for Women Over 40
As a naturopathic doctor, I’ve seen an increasing number of women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond walk into my clinic with a similar story: “I can’t focus. I forget why I walked into a room. I feel scattered, anxious, and overwhelmed. I used to be sharp. What’s happening to me?”
Many of these women are navigating perimenopause or post menopause, stages of life known for significant hormonal shifts. But what’s surprising—and often missed—is that for some of these women, the symptoms aren’t just about fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels. We’re now recognizing that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), long thought of as a childhood condition, may be playing a silent role.
ADHD in Women: A Hidden Pattern.
When hormone shifts associated with peri and post menopause start to occur, many women notice an increase in difficulties focusing, articulating their thoughts, and remembering things that used to come easily to them. Declining estrogen—especially estradiol—affects the brain’s ability to regulate neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, both critical in attention and mood regulation. For women with undiagnosed or subclinical ADHD, this drop can be the tipping point.
The Overlap of Symptoms
Here’s where it gets tricky: the symptoms of ADHD and menopause often mirror each other. Brain fog, forgetfulness, emotional reactivity, poor focus, disorganization, insomnia, and impulsivity can all stem from either—or both.
But if a woman had pre-existing (but manageable) attention issues, menopause may intensify them. What used to be quirks become impairments. What was once manageable anxiety becomes paralyzing.
What Can Be Done?
As a naturopathic doctor, my approach begins with a thorough evaluation—medical history, lifestyle factors, hormonal panels, and if appropriate, screening for ADHD traits. It’s essential to view each woman as a whole person, not just a collection of symptoms.
Here are a few supportive steps that can be considered:
Diet and Blood Sugar Balance: Stable glucose levels are essential for focus and mood. A high-protein, anti-inflammatory diet can make a marked difference.
Hormone Support: Using lab results as our guide, we may recommend phytoestrogens or adaptogens to address underlying hormonal concerns.
Targeted Nutrients: Magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, B-vitamins (especially B6 and B12), and zinc all play key roles in neurotransmitter function.
Mind-Body Support: Mindfulness, neurofeedback, and cognitive behavioral tools can enhance executive functioning.
When needed, a Referral: In some cases, an ADHD diagnosis may be warranted, and stimulant or non-stimulant medications might be considered. Collaboration with mental health and medical providers ensures a well-rounded approach.
Why This Matters
Ignoring the possibility of ADHD in menopausal women can mean years of unnecessary struggle. Women deserve answers—and more importantly, they deserve to feel like themselves again.
If you’re noticing changes in focus, memory, or mental clarity that don’t feel “normal,” don’t dismiss it. Your brain is trying to tell you something. Whether it's menopause, ADHD, or a combination, there is support.