ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who are born female (AFAB) who have ADHD often hide their symptoms. This can make it more difficult to be diagnosed.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must have lasted from childhood, technically before age 12. Doctors may conduct interviews with close family members and friends.
This test will allow you to compare your symptoms with those of women who suffer from ADHD. This test doesn't diagnose anything however it will provide your healthcare professional with a better understanding of your requirements.
Symptoms
ADHD can affect adults as well. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive version of ADHD is more common among women. This subtype is less obvious than the other two. It is usually manifested as a result of internal issues, such as a lack of focus or a tendency to think about daydreaming.
Women with inattentive ADHD can experience inattention and poor time management and trouble paying attention at work or in class. They may also have difficulties keeping track of bills, appointments, or doing household chores. Women may try to compensate by working harder or being more organized. However, this often backfires and creates feelings of anger. Women may resort to unhealthy coping strategies, such as drug or alcohol use.
If you think you might have ADHD and are concerned, talk to your doctor or mental health professional. They can help you identify signs and refer you if required to a specialist. Your doctor will inquire about your family history, medical history, and any mental health issues that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five ongoing symptoms to meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. You must have at least three of these symptoms to be diagnosed with inattentive ADHD or at least four of the hyperactive-impulsive symptoms to be diagnosed with the combined type of ADHD.
You must have been experiencing symptoms for at minimum six consecutive months prior to when you are diagnosed with ADHD. They must also have a negative impact on your daily life and interfere with how well you perform.
You can manage your symptoms by eating an exercise and diet plan that is healthy and regularly. You can also limit your intake of processed or sugary foods. You can also practice mindfulness meditation to help you relax your mind and body as well as control impulsiveness and distractibility, and promote restful sleep. You may also discuss with your doctor the possibility of taking medication to treat ADHD symptoms.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD is a significant step toward managing symptoms and having the life you desire. However it's not something you're able to do by yourself. A mental health professional will need to assess your symptoms, and perform an extensive physical exam. A medical professional will examine your medical background to rule out other problems that can mimic ADHD.
Many people suffering from ADHD are treated right away after being diagnosed. There are two main medications for the disorder: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are more commonly used because they work more quickly and provide a longer-lasting effect than non-stimulants. Your therapist or psychiatrist will prescribe the right medication based on your requirements. It is recommended to discuss your options with them so that they can make the most informed decision about your symptoms.
While ADHD is more common for males and boys however, women who are cisgender can be affected by the same symptoms. Because of gender bias, and the fact that many doctors are unaware of the way ADHD affects women, it is challenging for them as adults to receive the correct diagnosis.
This assessment was designed by keeping the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on the DSM-5 criteria, but has been broken down into symptoms for women. While it's not able to tell you if you're however, it can be used to start conversations with a therapist or medical doctor regarding your symptoms.
When you go to the evaluator, bring all of your symptoms along with any other documents that might be relevant, like performance evaluations from your job or copies of test results. The evaluator will review them to determine if they are in line with the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluation will also ask you questions about your life and routines to determine the severity of your symptoms.
The evaluator might be interested in knowing for instance, how long you've been suffering from ADHD symptoms and how they have affected your life. They will also go over your medical history and conduct tests to rule out conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
The management of ADHD in adulthood can be challenging, but treatments are available. Medications are the most common treatment. They can ease symptoms and regulate brain activity, but they must be prescribed and administered under the supervision of a medical professional. In the majority of cases, stimulant medications are the first option. However, non-stimulant drugs can be prescribed in certain instances. In addition to treating ADHD your doctor may suggest additional neuropsychological or psychological tests to determine the effects of co-existing conditions such as anxiety or depression.
The symptoms of ADHD can interfere with relationships and personal development. Women with ADHD may have difficulty interpreting social cues and interpreting body language. This can result in inadequate communication. This can lead to difficulties at workplace and at home. Women who suffer from ADHD also have a higher risk of mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression. In fact, it's believed that 60% of those with ADHD suffer from symptoms that last throughout their lives, and women are less likely to recover from their condition than men.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step in obtaining the right diagnosis and treatment. For many adults they find that their ADHD symptoms are less severe as they age. It is difficult for them to get the support and help they require. The good news is, the current research on ADHD is focused on understanding the effects of ADHD on women and is making advancements in diagnosis and treatments.
adhd symptoms in adult women with ADHD can benefit from a change in lifestyle and therapeutic approaches in addition to medications. For instance certain women benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can assist them with organizational strategies and develop structures to improve their life and productivity. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings while swapping negative thinking patterns for healthier ones. Women who are pregnant may also benefit from family therapy or counseling for marriage. They can develop the ability to communicate better with their partners and resolve conflicts. Healthy sleep habits can aid in managing symptoms of ADHD such as difficulty staying awake and falling asleep. This can be accomplished by having regular bedtime routines or listening to calming music or audiobooks and avoiding electronic devices or screen time prior to going to going to bed.
Support
There are numerous options available, as well as a community of people who can help you, despite the fact that ADHD is not a recognized condition in women. If you're unsure where to begin, consult your primary physician for recommendations or call your insurance company for an ADHD specialist in your area. It's also an excellent idea to join an ADHD support group near you. These groups can assist you to locate health care professionals with expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults, and can also provide a supportive atmosphere.
Doctors may have difficulty diagnosing girls and women suffering from ADHD because they typically present with different symptoms than boys and men. Some doctors may misunderstand these differences and may make incorrect diagnoses or employ unsuitable treatment strategies. This is particularly relevant to hyperactive, impulsive, and inattentive symptoms of ADHD.
You can take an online test for female ADHD in case you suspect that you may have the disorder. This free screening tool is built on DSM 5 criteria and was developed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed by professional advice. Be aware that this article uses the terms "male" and "female" to be referring to gender, but we will use gender identities that reflect the person's gender-specific identity.