ADHD Symptoms in Women
Adult women suffering from ADHD face unique challenges. Untreated symptoms can cause havoc in work and relationships.
Underdiagnosis is a result of gender discrimination and the tendency for girls and women to conceal their symptoms. However, the increased awareness means more adults are receiving the treatment they need. ADHD symptoms in women differ from men's and can be exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause.
Inattention Type symptoms
Women with inattentive ADHD may have trouble staying on task in completing tasks and making mistakes. signs of adhd might also be unable to comprehend or make a mistake. They may struggle with organization and may find it difficult to keep the track of their commitments such as paying bills or returning phone calls, as well as sending birthday cards. They also have trouble remembering appointments and often miss meetings or be late for 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, and that can lead to poor relationships as well as co-occurring disorders like anxiety or depression.
The difficulties of living with ADHD that is not addressed can be overwhelming. For some, it leads to self-blame and unhealthy coping behaviors that include excessive drinking and drug abuse. Others resort to unhealthy habits like eating too much and dieting. For some young girls and teens, the frustration of not being in a position to meet social expectations can result in non-suicidal self-injury, which may look like cutting, burning or scratching.
It's not a surprise that women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. This makes it more difficult to manage ADHD symptoms. They may also suffer from low self-esteem which makes it difficult to realize that the problem is a mental illness and not their fault.
Girls with inattentive ADHD may also have difficulties interpreting social cues. This could cause them to appear aloof and oblivious. They may not be able to catch jokes, misread body language, or be criticised for being rude or inconsiderate. They may also have trouble controlling their impulses and may blurt out hurtful comments or interrupt others.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD should ensure they get enough sleep every night and avoid caffeine and stimulants to boost their concentration. Exercise regularly can help increase neurotransmitters that can aid with concentration.
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 a messy house and to difficulty paying bills on schedule. They may also forget about their appointments or the names and faces of their family members and friends. They are easily distracted or bored and cannot wait to be heard. They are less likely to display the internalizing symptoms of depression or anxiety, which can 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. These symptoms are more prevalent among boys and men. Health care professionals may not pay attention to them in girls or women, or ignore them, attributing them to mental health issues or stereotypes. ADHD rating scales are also known to be skewed towards male behavior, which makes these symptoms difficult to measure and identify in women.
The good news is that there are ways to manage ADHD as a mature woman as well as taking medication. The key is finding an experienced therapist and clinician in treating ADHD both in women and girls. The type of therapy suggested will be based on your specific conditions and lifestyle however, it could include cognitive behavioral therapy that helps you validate your experience and reframe negative thinking patterns, family psychoeducation, or help with group work.
For some, a regular sleep routine, regular exercise and a balanced diet can ease symptoms. For others, stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin) or lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) may be required.
Many symptoms of ADHD are exacerbated during menopausal changes when hormone levels decrease. During this time it is important to stay on top of things and keep track of your symptoms and your treatment plan. You can also request to have your doctor modify the dosage or the type of medication you're taking as required. Talk to your therapist about the challenges you face in dealing with your symptoms and how they affect your work, at home and in your relationships. They might also suggest strategies to improve your communication with your partner as well as other people in your life.
Mixed Type Symptoms
Women who suffer from mixed type ADHD have difficulties at school and at work, however they do not show the impulsive or hyperactive behaviors of the other subtypes. They may forget important documents, pay bills or forget to make appointments. The signs of this form of the disorder may also include interrupting others, blurting out answers, and speaking without thinking. Women who suffer from this form of the disorder also experience problems maintaining friendships and relationships and are often unable to live independently.
In many cases, the inattentive symptoms of ADHD are the only symptoms noticed by family, friends or teachers. This results in girls and young women being overlooked. The underdiagnosis is also caused by gender bias and the tendency of people who suffer from ADHD symptoms to hide them.
signs and symptoms of adhd in adults of this type of ADHD are caused by hormonal changes that occur during puberty, and during menopausal and pregnancy. At these times estrogen levels decrease, and progesterone levels increase. This can cause ADHD symptoms. Furthermore the symptoms can vary day-to-day, depending on the levels of estrogen and progesterone. This could cause misdiagnosis or improper or inadequate treatment.
In addition to medication psychotherapy can also be utilized to treat the symptoms of the mixed type. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps people overcome negative thoughts and behaviors, and psychoeducational counseling. Both are accessible through local mental health clinics and on the internet.
Regular physical activity, such as running, walking or swimming can increase focus and attention. It can also release neurotransmitters that boost brain function and decrease anxiety or stress which are common among those suffering from ADHD. Regular breaks, creating routines for the day and implementing strategies for organizing are some other methods to help manage ADHD. A support group may be beneficial in developing lifestyle changes and techniques for dealing with stress. A professional ADHD coach can provide personalized individual guidance to those who have. Some people with this condition benefit from cognitive behavior or interpersonal therapy. Therapists can assist the patient to become aware of their behavior and how it impacts other people. They can also develop communication skills.
The signs of an adult type
Women with ADHD may suffer from different symptoms than males. The gender roles of women can make it difficult for parents and teachers to recognize the problem. It can also be hidden by mental health issues or depression, making it harder to detect. The symptoms can also change in response to hormones, such as those during the menstrual cycle or during menopausal pregnancy.
Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from inattention symptoms. You lose things, have difficulty remembering details, and get distracted by what your friends are doing or by your thoughts. Your inattentive ADHD symptoms can affect your marriage, school, and other relationships. You may have trouble paying bills, following directions or keeping track of appointments. Your family and friends might be aware. Your teacher or boss may notice that you are having trouble staying focused in meetings or completing tasks in time.
If you have the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, your symptoms are more noticeable than inattentive ones. You're always on the move, and you disturb others, talk too much or make comments that make no sense without thinking. You're unable to wait for your turn, or maintain eye contact. You are irritable and frequently exhibit mood swings that can be difficult for your closest friends and family to tolerate.
You may have trouble controlling your emotions, especially in times of stress or trauma. You may react strongly to criticism or be more prone to engage in fights, even when the situation isn't threatening. You might find it easier to deal with these emotions by engaging in self-destructive behaviours such as alcohol and drug consumption or unhealthy eating habits.
Women who are diagnosed with ADHD can improve their lives by implementing the appropriate treatment. You might consider working with a life management coach or finding an online ADHD support group. You may also seek out professional counseling from a professional who has treated women with this disorder. You might want to talk to a psychiatrist who can help you better understand the way your genes or brain activity may impact your ADHD symptoms.