ADHD Symptoms For Women
Girls and women with ADHD can experience a variety of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and anxiety. Yet these symptoms may be less apparent than those of men and boys and can result in underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis.
Women may also experience symptoms worsened due to hormonal changes like during menstrual cycles or pregnancy, as well as perimenopausal (the 4 years leading up to menopausal). ADHD treatment that incorporates strategies for lifestyle and medication can enhance relationships and help people succeed at home and at work.
Inattentiveness
Everyone loses their keys and fails to complete a task occasionally, but people who suffer from inattention ADHD cannot seem to keep their focus on the things they require for everyday life. They might leave work documents on their desks, fail to pick up laundry or empty trash cans and struggle to keep the pace of conversations. Their homes are usually cluttered with unwashed dishes and clutter. They are more prone to make careless mistakes that can have expensive consequences.
Inattentive ADHD for females is associated with a greater struggle to deal with social rejection, and academic failure compared to their peers. They might develop coping strategies that are dysfunctional, like self-harming behaviors and inability to sustain friendships or gain access to peer support which can cause emotional distress and low mood. They might attempt to overcome these issues by displaying a strong attitude that could lead to high-risk activities like alcohol or drug use, prostitution and/or involvement in groups.
Adults can have difficulty diagnosing ADHD as symptoms may change over time. However, it's important to undergo a thorough mental and medical health assessment so that a qualified health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis. They'll take into account the patient's present and past behavior, which includes childhood experiences. They'll also be looking for conditions that may cause similar symptoms. These include anxiety and stress mineral deficiencies, hearing or vision issues cognitive degeneration, sleep disorders, learning disabilities, allergies and certain medications.
Adults suffering from inattentive ADHD can be treated using psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications and medication. Stimulants like dextroamphetamine as well as methylphenidate are the most commonly prescribed ADHD drugs because they help improve concentration and decrease the impulsivity. Nonstimulants, like atomoxetine and clonidine, are used when stimulants don't help or cause side consequences. Therapy can also help adults with inattention ADHD modify their environment and learn coping skills to manage their symptoms. They can also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which teaches them to reframe negative thought patterns and manage their emotions. Adults can also benefit from an individual life coach or ADHD Coach who can help them establish the right routine and realistic expectations.
Hyperactivity
Women suffering from ADHD might find it difficult to be understood and may not realize the impact of their symptoms on their lives. They may have a difficult managing their time or staying well-organized, which can cause issues at school and at work as well as in their private lives. They are more likely to suffer from other illnesses, like depression or anxiety. These comorbidities can have a direct impact on their symptoms and how they manage them.
Due to the manner in which ADHD affects women and girls in particular, they can develop low self-esteem and have difficulty maintaining friendships. This can make it more difficult to seek treatment because they are less likely to be recommended by parents or teachers. The scales for rating that are used to diagnose ADHD still favor male behaviors. Many women hide their symptoms which can cause them to not be diagnosed and not being treated.
Another issue is that the symptoms of adhd may vary from day to day and can be particularly noticeable when hormonal changes occur, such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy. In addition, hormones can have an effect on the functioning of specific areas of the brain, including executive functions such as sleep, verbal memory and concentration.
For instance, estrogen levels decrease after ovulation and during the middle of the menstrual cycle while progesterone rises. This combination can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
Young women and girls who suffer from ADHD are more impulsive, impatient and prone to conflict in their relationships. They are at a greater risk of engaging in sexual interactions with partners who they aren't certain about, and they have difficulty expressing their needs. They could also be at a higher risk of being a victim of sexual abuse or domestic violence because they do not have contraception.
Girls and women with adhd can find effective coping strategies to manage their symptoms. sign of adhd in adults can also benefit from getting therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy to better manage their emotions and thoughts, and to replace bad patterns of behavior with healthier ones. In some cases, doctors may recommend couples counseling or family therapy to tackle the challenges that girls and women with ADHD might face in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Women and girls who suffer from ADHD are more likely to struggle with controlling their emotions. This can manifest as mood swings or difficulty coping with stress or criticism. It could be accompanied by an sensitivity to sexual abuse or other forms victimization. They could also be more likely to develop psychosexual issues, like sexual promiscuity or a greater risk of unplanned pregnancy or sexually transmitted illness. As a result, women with ADHD may often be more likely to seek treatment as they grow older.
Girls and women who have ADHD may exhibit similar aggressive behaviors that males and females. They can be constantly frenzied or agitated and moving. They also be prone to excessive talking and making rash decisions. These issues can result in them becoming abrasive, unkind and engaging in risky behavior. In addition, some women and girls who suffer from ADHD are susceptible to self-injury non-suicidal (NSSI), such as cutting or burning particularly in adolescence.
Many girls and women with ADHD can mask these symptoms, even though they may cause difficulties at school or in the workplace. This can make them seem more meticulous or a perfectionist. It could also deter others from noticing they struggle to stay on track or get distracted. Some women with ADHD develop unhealthy coping strategies, such as using alcohol or other drugs to mask their issues.
Rating signs of adhd adults used to diagnose ADHD tend to be biased towards male behavior and could result in under-diagnosis of women or girls. The symptoms might not be recognized as related to ADHD and can be internalized, leading to feelings of shame and low self-esteem.
For teens and adults with ADHD, a diet high in fruits, vegetables whole grains as well as healthy fats and protein can boost mood and attention. Regular exercise can improve focus and concentration and release neurotransmitters that feel good and reduce stress, anxiety and depression among people with the disorder. A registered dietitian can help you develop a plan to meet your specific needs.
Anxiety
Anxiety is normal, but when it becomes out of control, and interferes with your daily life it could be a sign of an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are characterised by unease, distress and a high level of fear in normal or benign situations. They can be present even when there is no reason to be concerned, and cause physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or rapid heartbeat. Anxiety disorders are twice as prevalent in women as men, and they can interfere with the work environment and personal relationships.
signs of adhd in adults of your partner can affect how you deal with your ADHD and anxiety. Women with ADHD and anxiety are often afflicted with mood swings that can be misinterpreted as "overly emotional" by others. This can lead to social problems, like strained relationships and unfulfilling careers. The mood swings can also cause insomnia which can increase the severity of your anxiety symptoms.
Symptoms of anxiety and ADHD can be more evident during certain times of your life, depending on your gender age, gender and hormone levels. If you are an adult woman suffering from ADHD the symptoms can change throughout the month or during pregnancy and menopause, due to hormonal changes. Symptoms of ADHD can also be more noticeable during menstruation, or they can be more severe during times of stress like a break-up, a job loss or any major life event.
To lessen the effects of ADHD and anxiety, try to fall asleep at the same time every night and set a regular time to wake up. Try listening to calming music or meditate prior to going to bed, and limit screen time to improve the quality of your sleep. A healthy diet can help ease anxiety and ADHD symptoms. Eliminate foods that cause sensitivities or allergies. Try eating plenty of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats and moderate amounts of carbohydrates. Exercise can also reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD. Try to exercise 30 minutes a day or use a light box to increase your exposure to sunlight.