What’s Behind the Underdiagnosis of ADHD in Black Women?

Stephanie Robertson was the picture of success—top grades, Ivy League education, a law degree. But beneath the surface, she was drowning.

For years, she struggled with:
✔ Hyperfixation followed by sudden disinterest
✔ Difficulty maintaining routines
✔ Overwhelming mental chaos

Yet when a therapist first suggested ADHD in 2009, Robertson dismissed it. “I’d never met a Black woman with ADHD,” she recalls. It took 13 more years—and multiple misdiagnoses—before she finally got answers in 2023.

Her story isn’t unique. It highlights a critical gap in mental healthcare: Black women are among the least likely to be diagnosed with ADHD, despite experiencing its symptoms at similar rates as other groups.

Why Are Black Women Overlooked?

1. Racial Bias in Diagnosis

• Studies show Black children are 26% less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than white peers.
• Instead, they’re often labeled with “conduct disorder”—a pattern linked to teachers misinterpreting symptoms as defiance.

2. Gender Differences in Symptoms

• Women with ADHD are more likely to be inattentive (daydreaming, disorganization) than hyperactive.
• Black girls like Robertson often internalize struggles, appearing “quiet” or “shy” while silently battling chaos.

3. Cultural Stigma & Lack of Awareness

• Mental health discussions in Black communities are often taboo.
• Many assume ADHD is a “white boy disorder”, leaving women of color undiagnosed.

The Cost of Late Diagnosis

For Robertson, delayed treatment led to:
🔥 Job instability (quitting before being fired)
🔥 Self-medication with alcohol
🔥 Misdiagnosis as bipolar disorder (a common error for Black women)

“I was angry because no one listened,” she says. “How many Black women are called ‘difficult’ when they’re actually struggling with undiagnosed ADHD?”

How to Advocate for Yourself (or Loved Ones)

1. Know the Signs

ADHD in Black women may look like:

• Cycles of hyperfocus → burnout
• Chronic lateness or forgetfulness
• Emotional dysregulation (frustration, anxiety)

2. Push for Proper Evaluation

• If a provider dismisses you, seek a specialist in adult ADHD.
• Track symptoms to show patterns (e.g., mood swings, focus struggles).

3. Demand Workplace Accommodations

Robertson now tells employers:
*”I thrive with flexibility—not a rigid 9-to-5.”*
Simple adjustments (flex hours, task prioritization) can be life-changing.

4. Break the Stigma

• Share your story (like Robertson’s work with NAMI).
• Normalize mental health care in Black communities.

“Fight for Yourself”

Robertson’s message to others:

“If something feels ‘off,’ trust yourself. Learn about ADHD, document your struggles, and don’t stop until someone listens.”

This National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s challenge the stereotypes—and ensure no one suffers in silence for 13 years.