ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and people who are born female mask their symptoms of ADHD. This can make it more difficult to determine the cause.
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must have lasted from childhood, technically before age 12. Doctors can interview close family and friends.
Take this test to determine how your symptoms compare to those of a woman suffering from ADHD. It's not a diagnostic tool but it can help your healthcare provider understand your needs better.
attention deficit disorder in women and symptoms
ADHD can be a problem for adults too. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive version of ADHD is more frequent in women. The symptoms of this type are less obvious than those of the other two and typically manifest as internal symptoms like inability to stay on task or a frequent daydreaming.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms in women could include inattention deficit, forgetfulness in class or at work, as well as insufficient time management skills. They may also have trouble keeping track of expenses and appointments or performing household chores. Women can try to overcome these issues by working harder or trying to be more organized. This could lead to frustration. Women may resort to unhealthy methods of coping, like drug or alcohol use.
It is advisable to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional if you think you might have ADHD. They can help you identify signs and refer you if you require a specialist. Your doctor will be interested in knowing your family history, medical history and any other mental health issues that you might have that could mimic the effects of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five continuous symptoms that satisfy the requirements 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.
Your symptoms must have lasted for at least six months in order to be diagnosed with one of the types of ADHD. They should also have a negative effect on your life and interfere with how well you function.
You can decrease the severity of your symptoms by following healthy by exercising regularly and reducing your intake of sugary or processed food items. You can also try mindfulness meditation to calm your body and mind to manage impulsiveness and distraction and promote restful sleep. You can also discuss with your doctor the possibility of taking medication to treat ADHD symptoms.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is an essential step to managing the symptoms and living the life you want to live. It's impossible to do it on your own. A mental health professional is required to evaluate your symptoms and perform a thorough physical exam. A medical doctor will review your history in order to rule out any other medical conditions that may be a cause of ADHD.
Many people with ADHD are treated right away after being diagnosed. There are two main drugs for the disorder that are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are more commonly used because they work more quickly and have a longer-lasting impact than non-stimulants. The kind of medication your psychiatrist or therapist prescribes to you will depend on the specific needs of your patient. It is best to discuss all options with them to make an informed decision about your symptoms.
Although ADHD is more common in males and females however, women who are cisgender can be affected by the same symptoms. Due to the gender-based bias and the fact that many doctors aren't aware of how ADHD can affect women, it is more difficult for women to receive a reliable diagnosis as adults.
This assessment online was developed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on DSM-5 criteria, but has been broken down into women's symptoms. It cannot diagnose you however, you can use it as a basis for discussions with a medical professional or therapist regarding your symptoms.
Bring all your symptoms to the evaluator along with any relevant documentation such as workplace performance evaluations or copies of test results. The evaluator will go through them to determine whether your symptoms are in line with DSM-5 criteria. The evaluater will also ask questions about your lifestyle and habits to determine the severity of your symptoms.
The evaluator might want to know for instance how long you've had suffering from ADHD symptoms and how they have affected your life. They'll also review your medical history and conduct a few tests to rule out any other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid problems.
Treatment
There are many treatment options available to adults suffering from ADHD. Medications are the most common therapy. They can ease symptoms and control brain activity, but must be prescribed and under the supervision of a medical professional. In the majority of instances, stimulant medication is the first option. However, non-stimulant medicines may be used in certain instances. Your doctor may also recommend neuropsychological or psychological tests to determine the effect of coexisting conditions like anxiety or depression.
The symptoms of ADHD can hinder relationships and personal development. Women who suffer from ADHD often have a harder time reading social cues and recognizing body language which can result in poor communication skills. This can lead to problems at home and at work. Women with ADHD also are more likely to develop mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. It is estimated that 60% of people with ADHD are still suffering from symptoms in adulthood. Women are also less likely than men to outgrow the condition.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step in obtaining the right diagnosis and treatment. For a lot of adults they find that their ADHD symptoms are less severe as they get older. It can be difficult for them to get the help and support they require. The good news is that the current research on ADHD is focused on understanding the effects of ADHD in women and is making progress in diagnosis and treatments.
Many women suffering from ADHD can benefit from lifestyle changes and therapeutic approaches in addition to medication. For example, some benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can help them learn how to organize their lives and establish strategies to improve their lives and productivity. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches them to accept their thoughts and feelings while changing negative thought patterns to healthier ones. Marital counseling and family therapy can also be beneficial for some women. They can learn how to communicate more effectively with their spouses and how to resolve conflicts. Practicing healthy sleep habits can also make a significant difference in reducing symptoms of ADHD like difficulty staying focused and falling to sleep at late at night. This can be accomplished by having regular bedtime routines and listening to soothing audiobooks or music and avoiding electronic devices or screen time before going to sleeping.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women is underdiagnosed however, there are plenty of resources and a whole community of people ready to support you. Consult your primary doctor for recommendations, or phone your insurance provider to find an ADHD specialist in your area. It's also recommended to join an ADHD support group near you. A lot of these groups will help you find health care professionals who are experienced with diagnosing and treating ADHD for adults and provide a safe and supportive environment.
Doctors may face difficulties diagnosing women and girls with ADHD as they usually have different symptoms than boys and men. Some doctors may not be aware of or underestimate these differences, leading to inaccurate diagnoses and poor treatment strategies. This is particularly relevant to impulsive hyperactive and inattentive ADHD symptoms.
If you think you might be suffering from ADHD If you think you might be suffering from ADHD, take the female ADHD test online. This free screening tool is built on DSM 5 criteria and was developed with the real experiences of ADHD women in mind. This is not a diagnostic test and should be followed by a professional consultation. Be aware that this article employs the terms "male" and "female" to refer to gender, but we are committed to using gender identities that reflect the person's affirmation of gender identity.