ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who are born female (AFAB) who suffer from ADHD often hide their symptoms. This can make it more difficult to determine the cause.
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must have lasted since childhood, technically prior to age 12. Doctors may conduct interviews with close family and friends.
This quiz will help you assess your symptoms against those of women who suffer from ADHD. It isn't a way to diagnose you but it will help your healthcare professional understand your needs better.
Signs and symptoms
Many people think of ADHD as an illness that affects children, but it can also manifest in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive kind of ADHD is more common for women than men. This subtype is less evident than the other two. It usually manifests as a result of internal issues like an inability to focus or a tendency to daydream.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms for women could include the inability to pay attention in classes or at work, as well as inadequate time management abilities. They may also have difficulties keeping track of expenses and appointments or performing household chores. Women may try to compensate by working harder or being more organized. This can backfire and cause frustration. Some women turn to unhealthy coping behaviors, like alcohol and drug consumption.
It is advisable to talk to your doctor or mental health professional if you think you might have ADHD. They can help you identify your symptoms and send you to a specialist if necessary. Your doctor will need to know your family history, medical history and any other mental health issues you may have that might mimic the effects of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five ongoing symptoms that meet 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 to be diagnosed with one of the types of ADHD. They must also have a negative effect on your life and hinder your ability to function. you can function.
You can lessen the severity of your symptoms by following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reduce your intake of processed or sugary food items. You can also utilize mindfulness meditation to relax your mind and assist you to reduce impulsiveness, distractibility and promote restful sleeping. You could also discuss with your doctor the possibility of taking medication to treat ADHD symptoms.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is a crucial step to managing the symptoms and living the life you want to live. But, it's not something you're able to do on your own. A mental health professional will need to evaluate your symptoms and conduct an extensive physical exam. A medical professional will look over your medical past medical history to rule out any other conditions that could be a cause of ADHD.
Many people suffering from ADHD are treated right away after being diagnosed. There are two main treatments 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. The kind of medication that your therapist or psychiatrist prescribes for you will depend on your particular needs. It is best to discuss your options with them to ensure they can make the best decision regarding your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more prevalent in boys and men but cisgender females too can suffer from its symptoms. Due to gender bias, and the fact that many doctors are unaware of the ways ADHD affects women, it is difficult for them as adults to receive the correct diagnosis.
This assessment online was developed by keeping the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on DSM-5 criteria however, it has been broken down into women's symptoms. While adhd symptoms in women adults cannot diagnose you however, it can be used to begin an interview with a therapist, or a medical doctor regarding your symptoms.
If you visit the evaluator, you must bring all of your symptoms along with any records that may be relevant, like performance evaluations from your job or copies of old test results. The evaluator reviews them to determine if they meet the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator will also ask questions about your life and habits to help determine the severity of your symptoms.
The examiner may be interested in knowing for instance how long you've had suffering from ADHD symptoms and how they have affected your life. They'll also look over your medical history and run a few tests to rule out any other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms, like seizures or thyroid problems.
Treatment
There are many treatment options available to adults suffering from ADHD. The most commonly used treatment is medication. They can aid in regulating brain activity and reduce symptoms however, they must be prescribed by an expert in healthcare and taken under their supervision. In the majority of instances, stimulant medication is the first option. However, non-stimulant medicines are sometimes used in specific cases. In addition to addressing ADHD your doctor may recommend additional neuropsychological or psychological tests to assess the impact of co-existing conditions like depression or anxiety.
ADHD symptoms can affect the development of relationships and personal growth. Women suffering from ADHD might have trouble reading social cues or understanding body language. This can lead to poor communication. This can lead to problems at work and home. Women who suffer from ADHD also have a higher risk of mood disorders like anxiety and depression. It is estimated that 60% of adults with ADHD continue to suffer from symptoms into adulthood. Women are also less likely than men to outgrow the condition.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step to getting an accurate diagnosis and treatment. As people age, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. However, it's difficult for them to receive the assistance and support they need. The good news is that the current research on ADHD is geared towards understanding its impacts in women, and advancements in treatment and diagnosis are being developed.
In addition to medications in addition to medication, many women with ADHD benefit from a variety of lifestyle modifications and therapeutic strategies. For example certain women benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can assist them with organizational strategies and develop strategies to improve their lives and productivity. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings while changing negative thought patterns to healthier ones. Family therapy and counseling for couples can also be beneficial for women who are suffering from depression. They can learn how to communicate better with their partners and learn how to resolve conflicts. Practicing healthy sleep habits can make a big difference in reducing symptoms of ADHD like difficulty staying focused and falling to sleep at the end of the night. This can be accomplished by having a regular sleep routine, listening to relaxing music or reading an audiobook, and avoiding electronic devices before going to bed.
Support
There are a variety of resources available and 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 phone your insurance company for an ADHD specialist in your area. It's also recommended to join an ADHD support group close to you. A lot of these groups will assist you in finding health care experts who are skilled in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults and offer a welcoming environment.
Because girls and women typically have different symptoms of ADHD than men and boys, they can be difficult for doctors to identify. Some physicians may misunderstand or underestimate these differences, leading to inaccurate diagnoses and poor treatment strategies. This is especially true when it comes the hyperactive impulsive and inattentional ADHD symptoms.
You can take an online test for female ADHD in case you suspect that you might be suffering from the disorder. This free test is based on DSM 5 criteria and was developed with the real experiences of ADHD women in mind. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed up with professional advice. It is important to note that this article employs the words "male" and "female" to refer to gender, but we are committed to using sex identities that reflect a person's affirmed gender identity.