Lily Hart

An Illustrated Journey of Late ADHD Diagnosis in Women

Women in Aotearoa are often diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) within in adulthood, due to limited research into female-specific symptoms, early social masking, and medical bias. While increased awareness on social media has led to a higher rate of diagnoses, resources to help women understand the emotional impact of undiagnosed ADHD remain scarce.

This illustrated concertina publication takes an autoethnographic approach, combining my own diagnosis experience with those of other late-diagnosed women. These insights informed the fictional narrative, shaping accessible visual metaphors that express the inner dialogue and emotional challenges faced by women with ADHD.

Centred on the contemporary female experience in Aotearoa, the project uses emotional storytelling and illustration to reflect the confusion and discomfort of adult diagnosis. Practically, it aims to reduce stigma around hyperactive ADHD symptoms; theoretically, it offers a design-led resource to help women process the emotional turmoil of diagnosis. Within design, it demonstrates the power of emotional transmedia storytelling to foster empathy and validation.