ADHD Symptoms in Women
Adult women with ADHD have unique challenges. If not treated, the symptoms can cause havoc on relationships and work life.
A tendency to discriminate against gender and a tendency for women and girls to hide their symptoms contribute to underdiagnosis. The increase in awareness has resulted in more adults getting the help they require. ADHD symptoms in women differ from those experienced by men. They can be worsened because of hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual period as well as pregnancy and menopausal.
The Signs of Inattention Type
Women with inattentive ADHD may have trouble staying on task and completing tasks, usually making careless mistakes or misunderstand instructions. They may struggle to keep the track of their obligations, such as paying bills returning calls, or even sending birthday cards. They may also forget appointments, and often miss work or social events or show up late for meetings.
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. signs adhd who aren't treated for their symptoms experience emotional distress, and that can lead to poor relationships and co-occurring illnesses such as depression or anxiety.
As a result, the problems of living with untreated ADHD can be overwhelming. Many sufferers blame themselves and resort to unhealthy coping strategies like drinking excessively and drug abuse. Others resort to unhealthy habits such as dieting and overeating. For some girls, especially teenagers, the stress of not being in a position to meet social expectations can result in self-injury that is not suicide-related, and could look like cutting, burning or scratching.
Because of these challenges, it's not surprising that women suffering from inattentive ADHD are more susceptible to depression and anxiety which can make it harder to manage their ADHD symptoms. They may also suffer from low self-esteem, which makes it hard to acknowledge that the issue is a mental illness and not the result of their own fault.
Girls with inattentive ADHD might also have difficulties understanding social cues, which can make them appear aloof or oblivious to other people. They may miss jokes, misread body language, and even be criticized as being rude or inconsiderate. They may also be struggling in controlling their impulses, so they may interrupt others or blurt out offensive words.
To increase their concentration, it is essential for women suffering from inattentive type ADHD to get enough rest each night and avoid caffeine, nicotine and stimulants. They should also try to exercise regularly, which will help increase neurotransmitters that aid in concentration and can 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 lead to an unorganized home and difficulties paying bills on time. They might also forget their appointments, or the names and faces of their family members and friends. They are easily distracted or bored, and they can't wait to be heard. They are less likely to exhibit the symptoms of depression that are internalized or anxiety, which tends to be more common in males and females.
It can be harder to identify and diagnose hyperactive/impulsive ADHD in women than in boys or men. These symptoms are more common among boys and men. Health professionals may not pay attention to the symptoms in women or girls or disregard them, blaming them on mood issues or stereotypes. ADHD rating scales are also biased towards male behavior, making it harder to identify and measure these symptoms in women.
The good news is that there are methods to manage ADHD as an adult woman and this includes taking medication. Finding a clinician or therapist who is experienced in treating ADHD among girls and women is essential. The type of therapy you are recommended for will depend on your conditions and lifestyle, but may include cognitive behavioral therapy that helps you validate your experience and reframe negative patterns of thinking as well as family psychoeducation or support group work.
Some people can reduce their symptoms by adhering to a regular sleep schedule and exercising regularly, as well as eating a healthy diet. For others, stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin) or lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) may be required.
Menopausal hormone levels decrease, many symptoms of ADHD become more severe. During this period it is important to stay on top of things and keep the track of your symptoms and your treatment plan. You can also ask that your doctor alter the dosage or the type of medication you are taking as required. Speak to your therapist about the challenges you face in dealing with your symptoms and how they affect you at work, home and in your relationships. They might also suggest ways to improve communication with your family members and partner.
Mixed Type symptoms
Women who suffer from mixed type ADHD have difficulties at school and at work, but they do not show the hyperactive or impulsive behaviors of the other subtypes. They may forget important documents or pay bills, or forget to schedule appointments. Symptoms of this form of the disorder may also include interrupting others, blurting out answers, and speaking without thinking. Women with this type of the condition also have problems maintaining friendships and relationships and often have difficulty to live independently.
In a lot of instances, family members friends, teachers, or even family members are only able to notice the symptoms of inattention ADHD. This results in girls and young women not being diagnosed. Gender bias and the tendency of those with ADHD to hide their symptoms are also contributing factors to underdiagnosis.
The symptoms of this type of ADHD are caused by hormonal changes, especially in puberty as well as during menopausal and prenatal. In these times, estrogen decreases and progesterone rises. This makes ADHD symptoms more noticeable and exacerbates them. Moreover, the symptoms tend to change from day to day, depending on the levels of progesterone and estrogen. This could result in misdiagnosis, and in the wrong or insufficient treatment.
In addition to medication, psychotherapy can be used to treat the symptoms of the mixed type. This includes cognitive behavior therapy, which helps change negative thoughts and behaviours and psychoeducational counseling. Both are offered through local mental health clinics and online.
Regular physical activity like walking, running or swimming can improve concentration and focus. It can also help release brain-boosting neurotransmitters and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety, which are common in those suffering from ADHD. Other methods to manage ADHD include taking breaks on a regular basis, establishing routines for the day, and using organizational techniques. Support groups can be helpful in learning about lifestyle changes and strategies for coping. A professional ADHD coach can provide customized, individual guidance for some. Some people with this disorder benefit from cognitive behavior or interpersonal therapy. A therapist can teach the patient to be aware of how their behavior affects others and help them develop their communication skills.
Adult Type symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have symptoms that differ from men. Diagnosing and treating the condition for women can be complicated due to gender-based expectations. This can make it harder for parents or teachers to determine if the girl is struggling with her attention or hyperactivity. It can also be hidden by mental health issues or depression and make it difficult to identify. Symptoms can also fluctuate with hormone levels, such as those that occur during menstrual cycles or during menopausal pregnancy.
Inattentive symptoms are the most common for women suffering from ADHD. You are more likely to forget things, have difficulty recalling details, and are distracted by other people or your thoughts. Your inattentive ADHD symptoms could affect your marriage, school, and other relationships. You might have difficulty paying bills, following directions or keeping the track of appointments. Your family and friends might notice. Your teacher or boss might note that you have trouble finishing tasks in time or have trouble staying focused during meetings.
If you have the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, your symptoms are more noticeable than inattentive ones. You're always in motion, you disrupt other people, speak too loudly or make up nonsense without being aware of what you're saying. You are unable to wait for your turn and are unable to keep eye contact with other people. You are impatient and often exhibit mood swings that can be difficult for your close family members and friends to bear.
It can be difficult to manage your emotions, particularly during times of stress and trauma. You may react strongly to criticism or be more prone to engage in fights, even if the situation isn't threatening. It could be easier to deal with these emotions by engaging in self-destructive behaviors such as drug and alcohol abuse, or unhealthy eating patterns.
The best treatment can help women suffering from ADHD improve their lives. It is possible to work with a life management coach or joining an online ADHD support group. You may also seek advice from a professional counselor who has had experience working with women suffering from this disorder. You might want to talk with a psychiatrist who can help you better understand how your genetics or brain activity could affect your ADHD symptoms.