you’re a woman with ADHD who regularly turns a two-sentence answer into a five-minute explanation, you’re not imagining it.

And you’re not “too much.”

There are real, research-supported reasons this pattern shows up especially in women.

Over-explaining isn’t just a communication quirk. It’s often the intersection of:

Executive function differences

Emotional sensitivity to rejection

Gender socialization

And years of being misunderstood

Let’s unpack what the research says.

At the core of many women’s experience with ADHD lies a complex web of internalized beliefs about what they “should” do or how they “must” behave. These beliefs are often shaped by societal messages about femininity, productivity, and success. For example, many women feel uncomfortable when they are not busy or productive, leading to guilt when they attempt to rest or take a break.

October marks ADHD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to understanding Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, raising awareness and promoting support for individuals and families affected by it. ADHD is a complex condition that impacts not just attention but also executive function, emotional regulation, and relationships. When discussing ADHD, it’s important to highlight some insights from leading experts in the field who offer compassionate and evidence-based approaches.