Women with ADHD: Emerge from Behind the Velvet Curtain into the Spotlight this Spring
Do you feel like you have been putting on a mask to get by every day, or feel like you have been hiding behind the beautiful but heavy “velvet curtain”. For too long, women and girls with ADHD have navigated their challenges by masking or even hiding, often feeling misunderstood and overwhelmed by executive functioning difficulties that seem to come naturally to others. Maybe it’s time to step into the spotlight this coming Spring and a fresh start!
The reality is that ADHD presents differently in females, frequently masked by internalised symptoms and societal expectations, leading to late diagnoses and years of self-blame. Many women don’t “look like” the stereotype of ADHD. I mean, how do you look like a diagnosis, especially when you are masking the symptoms? You try and fit in the best you can, as you don’t want to stand out as being different.
Research shows that women with ADHD are significantly more likely to experience anxiety, depression and low self-esteem compared to their male counterparts. They often struggle with time management, organisation, emotional regulation and maintaining focus while juggling multiple responsibilities. Traditional one-size-fits-all approaches fail to address the unique intersection of ADHD symptoms and the complex roles women navigate in their daily lives.
This is why our specialised seven-session Women and Girls ADHD Group program can be a pivotal reframe. Unlike individual therapy or generic support groups, this program combines evidence-based executive functioning strategies with the powerful healing that comes from shared experiences. Participants discover they’re not alone in their struggles while learning practical tools from both facilitators and peers who truly understand their journey.
Each session builds upon the last, creating a comprehensive foundation: from mapping individual ADHD presentations and developing time management systems, to mastering emotional regulation and building sustainable organisation strategies. The group format provides something invaluable – the validation that comes from hearing “me too” and the motivation that grows from witnessing others’ breakthroughs.
The magic happens in those moments when participants share strategies that actually work, be heard, and celebrate small victories together. Research consistently shows that peer support significantly improves treatment outcomes for ADHD, particularly for women who often feel isolated in their experiences.
Monica and Jonathan Hassall bring extensive coaching expertise and deep understanding of ADHD challenges to facilitate this transformative program. Monica’s presentation at Women’s Palooza 2025 reflects her commitment to elevating awareness and support for women with ADHD.
This program isn’t just about learning coping strategies – it’s about rewriting the narrative from “What’s wrong with me?” to “How can I work with my brain?”. It’s about building a community of understanding and creating lasting change through connection, education, and ultimately emerging from behind the velvet curtain, and onto centre stage, where the real you can be seen.