ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who were assigned female at birth disguise their symptoms of ADHD. This can make it more difficult to receive an accurate diagnosis.
For ADHD to be diagnosed symptoms must be present since childhood. This is technically before the age of 12. Doctors can interview close family members and friends.
Use this quiz to see how your symptoms compare to those of a woman suffering from ADHD. It's not a diagnostic tool, but it can help your healthcare professional to better understand your needs.
Symptoms
Many people view ADHD as an illness that affects children, but it can also be seen in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive form of ADHD is more common for women than males. This subtype is less obvious than the other two. It typically manifests as a result of internal issues, such as a lack of focus or a tendency for daydreaming.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms for women could include inattention deficit, forgetfulness in classes or at work, and poor time management skills. They may also have difficulty keeping track of their bills and appointments or completing household chores. Women may try to compensate by working harder or becoming more organized. However, this often backfires and can cause feelings of frustration. Some women turn to unhealthy ways of coping, such as drug and alcohol drinking.
It is recommended to speak with your doctor or a mental health professional if you think that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can help you identify your symptoms and recommend you to a specialist when needed. Your doctor will be interested in knowing your family history, medical history and any other mental health issues you may have that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five continuous symptoms that satisfy the criteria 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.
You must have had symptoms for at minimum six consecutive months before you are diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms are also affecting your life negatively and affecting how well you perform.
You can manage your symptoms by eating an exercise and diet plan that is healthy and regularly. You can also reduce your intake of processed or sugary food items. You can also practice mindfulness meditation to calm your mind and help you manage impulsivity, distraction and promote restful sleep. 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 towards managing your symptoms and living the life you desire. It's not possible to manage it on your own. A mental health professional will be required to evaluate your symptoms and perform an extensive physical examination. A medical professional will look over your history in order to determine if there are any other conditions that could be related to ADHD.
Many people with ADHD are treated right away after being diagnosed. There are two main medications for the disorder that are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are more commonly used because they work more quickly and provide a longer-lasting effect than non-stimulants. The type of medication your therapist or psychiatrist prescribes to you will depend on your particular needs. It is best to discuss your options with them to ensure they can make the best decision about your symptoms.
While ADHD is more prevalent in males and females but cisgender women may suffer from the same symptoms. Because of gender bias, and the fact that many doctors are not aware of the way ADHD affects women, it is challenging for them as adults to receive the right diagnosis.
This assessment online was developed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on the DSM-5 criteria, but is broken down to illustrate how these symptoms manifest for women. It is not a diagnostic tool, however you can use it as a starting point to start a discussion with a medical doctor or therapist about your symptoms.
If you visit the evaluator, bring all your symptoms and any other records that could be relevant, like performance evaluations from your job or copies of old test results. The evaluator will examine them to see whether your symptoms match the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator might also ask you questions regarding your lifestyle and habits in order to determine the severity of 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 some tests to rule out any other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.
Treatment
Managing ADHD in adulthood can be a challenge however, treatments are available. The most popular treatment is medication. They can aid in regulating brain activity and reduce symptoms, but they should be prescribed by medical professionals and under their supervision. In the majority of instances, stimulant medications are the first option. However, non-stimulant drugs are sometimes used in specific situations. In addition to treating ADHD, your doctor may recommend additional psychological or neuropsychological testing to examine the impact of co-existing conditions such as depression or anxiety.
The signs of ADHD can affect relationships and personal development. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to have a harder to read social cues and picking up on body language and this can lead to poor communication skills. This can lead to difficulties at workplace and at home. Women who suffer from ADHD are also at a higher risk of developing mood disorders including anxiety and depression. It is estimated that 60% of people suffering from ADHD continue to suffer from symptoms into adulthood. high functioning adhd in women are also less likely than men to get rid of the condition.
The most important step in finding a diagnosis and addressing ADHD is to recognize. As people age, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. It can be difficult to get the help and support they need. The good news is that current research on ADHD is focused on understanding its impact on women and is making advances in the treatment and diagnosis.
Many women suffering from ADHD can benefit from a change in their lifestyle and therapeutic approaches in addition to medication. Some women who suffer from ADHD benefit by working closely with an ADHD coach, who can help them develop organizational strategies and create structures to improve their efficiency and overall quality of life. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavior therapy, which helps women to accept their thoughts and feelings while replacing negative thoughts with healthier ones. Family therapy and counseling for couples can be beneficial to women who are suffering from depression. They can learn how to communicate better with their spouses and how to resolve conflicts. Healthy sleeping habits can aid in managing symptoms of ADHD such as difficulties getting up and falling asleep. This can be accomplished by having a regular sleep routine, listening to soothing to music or listening to an audiobook, and avoiding electronic devices before the bed.
Support
There are numerous sources available and a network of people who can help you, despite the fact ADHD isn't a diagnosis for women. Consult your primary care doctor for recommendations, or call your insurance provider to find an ADHD specialist in your area. It's also recommended to join an ADHD support group in your area. These groups can assist you to find health professionals with experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD for adults. They can also provide a welcoming environment.
Because women and girls often experience different symptoms of ADHD than boys and men, they can be difficult for doctors to diagnose. Certain doctors may not understand these differences and make inaccurate diagnoses or employ poor treatment strategies. This is particularly relevant to hyperactive, impulsive and inattention symptoms of ADHD.
You can take a test on the internet for female ADHD if you suspect you might be suffering from the disorder. This free screening tool was created with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is built on DSM 5 and is a screening tool based on DSM 5 Criteria. This is not a diagnostic test and should be accompanied by a consultation with a professional. It is important to note that the article makes use of "male" and "female" as terms that refer to gender. However we believe in using sex identities that reflect a person’s affirmed gender.