ADHD Symptoms in Women
Adult women with ADHD face challenges that many do not realize. Inadequate treatment can cause havoc in the workplace and in relationships.
A tendency to discriminate against gender and a tendency for women and girls to conceal their symptoms can cause underdiagnosis. But, increasing awareness means that more adults are receiving the help they need. ADHD symptoms in women are different from those experienced by men and can be aggravated by hormone fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopausal.
Signs of Inattentive Type
Women with inattention ADHD may have trouble staying on task performing tasks and making mistakes. They can also be confused or make a mistake. They may have trouble organizing and find it difficult to keep on top of their obligations, including paying bills or returning phone calls, as well as sending birthday cards. They also have trouble remembering appointments and can often skip meetings or be late to work or social events.
The symptoms of inattentive type ADHD are less noticeable than hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms in boys and men, so it's possible that women and girls who have these symptoms don't receive a diagnosis until adulthood. Many people who don't get treated for their symptoms suffer emotional distress. This can result in poor relationships as well as co-occurring disorders such as depression or anxiety.
The challenges of living with untreated ADHD can feel overwhelming. For some, it leads to self-blame and unhealthy coping habits, such as excessive alcohol and substance abuse. Some people fall into unhealthy behaviors, such as dieting or overeating. Some young girls and teenagers might self-injure themselves to alleviate their anger at not being able to meet social expectations. This could be done by cutting or burning.
Due to these issues, it's not surprising that women who suffer from inattentive type ADHD are more prone to depression and anxiety, which can make it more difficult to manage their ADHD symptoms. In addition women with these conditions may also have low self-esteem, which makes it difficult to realize that their issues stem from a mental health condition rather than being their blame.
Girls with inattention ADHD may also have trouble interpreting social signals. This can make them appear uninterested and oblivious. They may miss jokes or misread body language, and be criticized for being rude or inconsiderate. They might be unable to control their impulses and may blurt out hurtful comments or interrupt others.
Women with inattention ADHD should ensure they get enough sleep every night and stay away from stimulants and caffeine to improve their concentration. They should also try to exercise regularly, which will help increase neurotransmitters that aid in concentration and may reduce mood swings.
Symptoms of Hyperactive/Impulsive Type
Women and adolescent girls with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD can find it hard to concentrate or organize. This can result in clutter in the home and problems paying bills on time. They might forget appointments or the names of friends and family members. They are easily distracted or bored and cannot wait to be heard. They are less likely to display the symptoms of depression that are internalized or anxiety, which can be more prevalent in boys and men.
It can be harder to identify and diagnose hyperactive/impulsive ADHD in women than in boys or men. These symptoms are more prevalent in both men and boys. Health professionals might not be aware of these symptoms in women or girls or disregard these symptoms, and blame them on mood disorders or societal stereotypes. ADHD rating scales are also known to be biased toward male behavior, making these symptoms difficult to measure and identify in women.
There are a variety of methods to manage ADHD in women who are adults. This includes taking medication. The most important thing is to find a therapist and a doctor who are experienced in treating ADHD both in women and girls. The type of therapy recommended will depend on your symptoms and lifestyle, but may include cognitive behavioral therapy that helps you validate your experience and reframe negative thinking patterns, family psychoeducation, or group therapy for support.
For some, a consistent sleep routine, regular exercise and healthy eating can reduce symptoms. For others, stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin) or lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) may be required.
During menopause, when hormone levels drop, many symptoms of ADHD worsen. During this period you must stay on top of things and keep the track of your symptoms and your treatment plan. You can also request that your doctor adjust the dosage or the type of medication you are taking as required. Talk to your therapist or counselor about the challenges you face in managing your symptoms and how they impact you at work at home, at work, and in relationships. They may also suggest ways to improve your communication with your family members and partner.
Signs of Mixed Type
Women who suffer from mixed type ADHD have issues at school and at work, but they don't exhibit the hyperactive or impulsive behaviors of the other subtypes. They might forget appointments and documents, or lose important documents or pay bills and have trouble getting things done at home. This form of disorder can also cause people to interrupt others, talk without thinking, and talk without thinking. Women with this presentation of the disorder also experience problems maintaining friendships and relationships and often have difficulty to live an independent life.
In many instances, the inattention symptoms of ADHD are the only ones noticed by family, friends or teachers. This leads to girls and young women not being diagnosed. A bias towards gender and the tendency of those with ADHD to conceal their symptoms is another reason for underdiagnosis.
The symptoms of this type are influenced by hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, puberty and menopausal. In these instances, estrogen levels decrease and progesterone levels increase. This makes ADHD symptoms more apparent and can cause them to worsen. The symptoms can also change from day to day, depending on the levels of progesterone and estrogen. This could cause misdiagnosis or improper or inadequate treatment.
In addition to medications, psychotherapy can be used to manage symptoms of the mixed type. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps people overcome negative thoughts and behaviors, and psychoeducational counseling. Both are accessible online and through local mental clinics.
Regular physical activity like running, walking or swimming can increase focus and concentration. It also helps release neurotransmitters that boost brain function and decrease feelings of stress or anxiety that are common among those suffering from ADHD. Other methods to manage ADHD include taking breaks on a regular basis, establishing routines for your day, and employing strategies for organization. A support group may be helpful for learning lifestyle changes and coping skills. A professional ADHD coach can provide individualized, individual guidance for some. Certain people with ADHD benefit from cognitive-behavioral or interpersonal therapy. Therapists can help the person be aware of their behavior and how it impacts other people. They may also improve their communication skills.
Adult Type Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD may suffer from different symptoms than males. The gender roles of women can make it difficult for teachers and parents to identify the condition. It is also hidden by mental health or depression issues which makes it difficult to identify. The symptoms can also fluctuate according to hormone levels. For instance during menstrual cycles or pregnancy and menopause.
Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to experience inattentive symptoms. You are prone to losing things, having trouble remembering details, and be distracted by what other people are doing or by your thoughts. Your lack of attention ADHD could affect your school, work as well as marriages and other relationships. Get Source may have trouble paying bills, following directions or keeping an eye on appointments. Your family and friends might be aware. Your boss or teacher may note that you have trouble finishing tasks on time or have difficulty staying focused during meetings.
If you have the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, your symptoms are more noticeable than inattentive ones. You are restless, always on the move and can disturb others, talk too much or make comments that are illogical without thinking. You are unable to wait for your turn, and you struggle to keep eye contact with other people. You can be impatient and suffer from mood swings that are difficult for your family and friends to accept.
You may find it difficult to control your emotions, especially in times of stress and trauma. You may react strongly to criticism or be more prone to engage in fights, even when the situation isn't that serious. It could be easier to deal with these emotions by engaging in self destructive actions like drug and alcohol consumption or unhealthy eating habits.
The best treatment can help women suffering from ADHD improve their lives. Think about working with a life coach or joining an online ADHD support group. You may also seek out professional counseling from a counselor who has worked with women suffering from this disorder. You may want to speak with a psychiatrist, who can help you understand the way your genes and brain activity might impact your ADHD symptoms.