ADHD Symptoms in Women
Adult women suffering from ADHD have their own unique problems. Untreated symptoms can cause havoc in the workplace and in relationships.
Underdiagnosis is the result of gender discrimination and the tendency for girls and women to cover up their symptoms. The increase in awareness has resulted in more adults receiving the assistance they require. ADHD symptoms in women differ from those of men, and can be aggravated by hormone fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopausal.
Symptoms of Inattentive Type
Women with inattentive ADHD might have trouble keeping on track in completing tasks and making mistakes. They might also be unable to comprehend or make mistakes that are not their fault. They may struggle to keep on top of their obligations, such as paying bills making calls, or sending birthday cards. They also have trouble remembering appointments and often miss meetings or arrive 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. If they don't seek treatment for their symptoms can experience emotional anxiety. This can result in poor relationships, or co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression.
As a result, the difficulties of living with untreated ADHD can seem overwhelming. Many people blame themselves and adopt unhealthy strategies for coping, such as excessive drinking and substance abuse. Others turn to unhealthy habits such as dieting and overeating. For some girls, especially teens, the frustration of not being able to meet social expectations can lead to non-suicidal self-injury, which may look like cutting, burning or scratching.
It's no surprise that women who have inattentive ADHD are more likely to experience depression and anxiety. This makes it harder to manage ADHD symptoms. Additionally they may suffer from low self-esteem, which can make it difficult to recognize that their issues are caused by mental health issues instead of being their fault.
Girls with inattention ADHD may also have difficulties in interpreting social cues. This can cause them to appear distant and unobservant. They might miss jokes or misunderstand body language and be accused of being rude or inconsiderate. They may be unable to control their impulses and may make hurtful comments or interrupt others.
To increase their focus, it's important for women suffering from inattention type ADHD to get enough sleep each night and avoid nicotine, caffeine and stimulants. Regular exercise can increase neurotransmitters, which may help in focusing.
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 may also forget their appointments, or the names and faces of family members or friends. They are easily distracted or bored and can't wait to be heard. They are less likely to show the internalizing symptoms of depression or anxiety, which tends to be more frequent in men and boys.
It can be harder to identify and diagnose hyperactive/impulsive ADHD in women than in boys or men. Because these symptoms are more common in boys and men healthcare professionals may not recognize them in women or girls or might ignore them, putting them down to mood issues or gender stereotypes. ADHD rating scales tend to be biased toward male behavior, making these symptoms harder to measure and identify for women.
There are a myriad of ways to deal with ADHD in an adult woman. This includes taking medication. Finding a clinician or therapist who is experienced in treating ADHD in women and girls is essential. The type of therapy suggested will depend on the severity of your symptoms and lifestyle and may include cognitive behavioral therapy that helps you validate your experience and reframe negative thinking patterns Psychoeducation for the family, or support group work.
For some, a regular 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.
When menopausal hormone levels decrease, many symptoms of ADHD worsen. During this period it is important to stay on top of things and keep the track of your symptoms and your treatment plan. You may also request to have your doctor modify the dosage or type of medication you are taking as needed. Speak with your therapist about the difficulties you face managing your symptoms, and how they affect your daily life at home, work, and in your relationships. They might also suggest strategies to improve your communication with your partner and other people in your life.
Mixed Type Signs and symptoms
Women who have mixed type ADHD often experience difficulties at working and at school, but do not have the impulsive or hyperactive symptoms of the other subtypes. They may forget important documents and pay bills, or forget to schedule appointments. Symptoms of this form of the disorder could include disrupting others, blurting out answers and speaking without thinking. Women who suffer from this type of the disorder also have difficulties maintaining relationships and friendships and are unable to be a self-sufficient person.
In many instances, family members friends, teachers, or even family members are the only ones to be able to recognize the inattentive symptom of ADHD. As a result, girls and young women with this disorder are underdiagnosed. The gender bias and the tendency of people with ADHD to hide their symptoms also contributes to underdiagnosis.
Symptoms of this type of ADHD are affected by hormonal fluctuations particularly during puberty and during menopausal and pregnancy. During these times, estrogen levels decrease and progesterone levels increase. This combo can intensify ADHD symptoms. The symptoms can also change from day to day, based on the levels of estrogen and progesterone. This can lead to misdiagnosis and improper or inadequate treatment.
In addition to medications, psychotherapy can be used to treat symptoms of the mixed type. This includes cognitive therapy for behavior, which aids people overcome negative thoughts and behaviors, and psychoeducational counseling. Both are offered through local mental health clinics as well as online.
Regular physical activity, such as running, swimming, or walking can help improve focus and attention. It can also release neurotransmitters to boost brain function and decrease anxiety or stress. 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 about lifestyle changes and improving your strategies for coping. For certain people individuals, a professional ADHD coach is an excellent option for individual, personalized guidance. Some people with this disorder also benefit from cognitive behavioral or interpersonal therapy. Therapists can help the person to be aware of how their behavior impacts others and help them develop their communication skills.
Adult Type Signs and symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD may exhibit different symptoms than men. The process of 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 concealed by mental health issues or depression and make it difficult to detect. The symptoms can also change in accordance with hormone levels, such as those that occur during menstrual cycles or during menopausal pregnancy.
Women suffering from ADHD are most likely to experience inattentive symptoms. You are more likely to forget things, have difficulty remembering details, and become distracted by other people or your thoughts. Your inattention ADHD can impact your work, school as well as marriages and other relationships. You might have difficulty following instructions, paying bills or keeping track of appointments. Your family and friends may be aware. Your boss or teacher may note that you have trouble getting tasks completed on time or have difficulty staying focused in meetings.
If you have the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, your symptoms are more noticeable than inattentive ones. You're constantly on the go, disrupt other people, speak too loudly or say nonsensical things without being aware of what you're saying. adhd in adults signs have trouble waiting for your turn, and you struggle to maintain eye contact with other people. You are impatient and often exhibit mood swings that can be hard for your close family and friends to accept.
It may be difficult to control your emotions, particularly when you're dealing with stress and trauma. You might react more strongly to criticism or fights even if the issue isn't a serious one. It may be easier to deal with these feelings by engaging in self destructive behaviors such as drug and alcohol consumption or unhealthy eating habits.
Women diagnosed with ADHD are able to improve their lives by getting the proper treatment. You might consider working with a life-management coach or locating an online ADHD support group. You may also seek advice from an experienced counselor who has had experience working with women suffering from this disorder. You might want to talk to a psychiatrist who can assist you in understanding the way your genes and brain activity may affect your ADHD symptoms.