ADHD Symptoms For Women
Girls and women with ADHD can experience a variety of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and anxiety. However, these symptoms are less apparent than those of men and boys who suffer from ADHD, which could lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis.
Women may also suffer from symptoms that are aggravated by hormonal fluctuations, like the ones that occur during menstrual cycle or pregnancy, or even perimenopausal (4 years prior to menopausal). ADHD treatment that includes strategies for living and medication can enhance relationships and help people get their lives back on track at home and work.
Inattentiveness
People with inattention ADHD are unable to keep the track of their daily activities. They may forget to clean up the laundry or empty the trash cans and struggle to keep up with conversations. They might leave work documents on a desk or fail to take care of garbage or empty trash bins, and have trouble keeping pace during conversations. Their homes are often cluttered and unwashed. They are prone to make errors that aren't considered and can lead to costly consequences.
Inattentional ADHD in females is associated with a higher struggle to deal with social rejection, and academic underachievement compared to their peers. They may develop coping strategies that are not effective, like self-harming behaviors and an inability to sustain friendships or get support from peers which can cause depression and emotional distress. They might attempt to overcome these issues with a heightened sense bravado which can result in high-risk behaviors such as drug or alcohol consumption, prostitution or involvement in gangs.
For adults, it may be difficult to diagnose ADHD because symptoms may change as time. It is important to have a full mental and medical health evaluation to ensure that a certified health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis. They'll take into account the patient's past and present behavior and past events, including childhood ones. They'll also look for conditions that may cause similar symptoms. These include anxiety and stress, mineral deficiencies hearing or vision problems sleep disorders, cognitive degeneration as well as learning disabilities, allergies and certain medications.
Treatment options for adults suffering from inattentive ADHD include psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and medication. Stimulants like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate, are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications because they improve focus and reduce the impulsivity. Non-stimulants, like Clonidine and atomoxetine are used when stimulants don't help or cause adverse side consequences. In addition, therapy can help adults with inattentive ADHD learn to alter their surroundings and develop coping strategies which will help reduce their symptoms. They can also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that teaches how to manage emotions and how to reframe negative thoughts. Adults can also benefit from an individual life coach or ADHD Coach who can assist them to create the right routine and realistic expectations.
Hyperactivity
Women suffering from ADHD might find it difficult to be understood and not realize the impact of their conditions on their lives. They may have a difficult to stay focused or organized, which could result in problems at work and school, as well as in their private lives. They are more likely to be suffering from other conditions such as anxiety or depression. These co-morbidities can have an immediate impact on their symptoms as well as how they manage them.
Women and girls who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from low self-esteem and have trouble keeping friendships up, due to how their symptoms affect them socially. It may also be more difficult for them to access treatment as they are less likely to receive a referral from their teachers or parents. The rating scales that are used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behavior. Many women can mask their symptoms which can result in them not being diagnosed and not being treated.
A second challenge is that the symptoms of adhd can fluctuate from day to day. This is particularly the case in the course of hormonal changes like the menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Hormones also have a direct effect on certain parts of the mind including executive functions, memory of words and sleep, as well as concentration.
Progesterone rises after ovulation and estrogen decreases during the middle of your menstrual cycle. This combination can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
Girls and young women who have ADHD might be more impulsive, impatient and susceptible to conflict in their relationships. They are more likely to engage in sexual interactions with partners they don't know and are a hard time asserting themselves. They could also be more at risk of sexual abuse or domestic violence since they lack contraception.
Adhd sufferers and their daughters might find effective strategies for coping to help manage their symptoms. They may also benefit from therapy, which may include cognitive behavioral therapy to learn how to better be aware of their thoughts and feelings and swap out negative patterns of behavior for more healthy ones. In some instances doctors may suggest couples counseling or family therapy to tackle the challenges that women and girls with ADHD can have in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Girls and women with ADHD might be more likely to struggle with managing their emotions. This can manifest as mood swings, issues dealing with stress or criticism and an sensitivity to sexual assaults and other types of victimization. They may also be more likely to develop sexual issues, including promiscuity, or a higher chance of unplanned pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease. Females with ADHD are more likely to seek help from an adult.
Girls and women who have ADHD may exhibit similar aggressive behaviors that males and females. They can be unfocused or restless, and always in motion. They may also talk a lot and make rash decisions. These issues can cause them to be rude or rude, as well as engage in risky behavior. Additionally, certain girls and women with ADHD may be susceptible to self-injury non-suicidal (NSSI) that includes cutting, burning or scratching particularly during adolescence.
Although these issues can make it difficult for people to cope in the workplace or school, many girls and women with ADHD are skilled at masking these symptoms. This can make them seem more meticulous or a perfectionist, and it can also prevent people from noticing that they have trouble staying focused or easily distracted. Some women with ADHD also develop unhealthy coping strategies that include using alcohol or drugs to disguise their issues.
Rating scales used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behaviors and may lead to under-diagnosis of women or girls. The symptoms may not be identified as being connected to ADHD and can be internalized, resulting in feelings of shame and low self-esteem.
A diet rich in vegetables and fruits, whole grains and healthy fats can improve concentration and mood for teens and adults with ADHD. Regular exercise can improve concentration and focus and also release good neurotransmitters which help reduce stress, anxiety and depression. It can be helpful to talk with a registered dietitian to create a plan that works best for each individual.
Anxiety
Anxiety is normal, but when it gets out of control and affects your daily life you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. The symptoms include anxiety, dis content , and excessive fright in normal or routine situations. They are present even when there is little or no reason to be worried, and they cause you physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach aches, or a rapid heartbeat. Anxiety disorders affect more women than men and can affect relationships and work.
It is also possible that gender plays an important role in how you ADHD and anxiety are handled. Women who suffer from ADHD and anxiety often experience mood swings, which can be interpreted as "overly emotional" by other people. This can cause social problems such as strained relationships and unsuccessful careers. Mood swings may also make it difficult to sleep which can make your anxiety symptoms worse.
The symptoms of anxiety and ADHD are more evident at certain times in your life based on your gender, age and hormone levels. If you are an adult woman suffering from ADHD the symptoms can change during the month, or during menopausal pregnancy due to hormonal changes. ADHD symptoms can also be more evident during menstrual cycles or during stressful times such as an breakup or job loss, or major life events.
Sleeping enough can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and ADHD, so try to fall asleep at the same time each night, and set a regular wakeup time. Try listening to soothing music or meditation before you go to bed and limit screen time to increase your sleep quality. Healthy eating can help reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms. Eliminate foods that trigger allergies or sensitivities. Try to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and moderate amounts of carbohydrates. Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety. Try exercising for 30 minutes per day or utilize a light therapy box to increase exposure to natural sunlight.