ADHD Symptoms For Women
Girls and women with ADHD can experience a variety of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and anxiety. Yet these symptoms may be less evident than those of men and boys who suffer from ADHD, which could lead to underdiagnosis or mistaken diagnosis.
Women may also experience symptoms aggravated by hormonal changes, such as during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and perimenopause (the four years prior to menopause). ADHD treatment that incorporates medication and lifestyle strategies can improve relationships and prepare people for success at work and home.
Inattentiveness
Everyone loses their keys or forgets to do an assignment sometimes, but people who suffer from inattention ADHD aren't able to keep their focus on the things they require in everyday life. They might leave work documents on a desk or fail to take care of laundry or empty trash cans, and have trouble keeping the pace of conversations. Their homes are often messy and unwashed. They are prone to make careless mistakes that can have costly consequences.
Females who have inattention ADHD also have more trouble coping with academic and social rejection than their peers. They may develop coping strategies that are not effective, such as self-harming behaviour and inability to sustain friendships or access peer support that can cause emotional distress and low mood. They may compensate for these issues with a heightened sense bravado which can lead to high-risk activities such as drug or alcohol use, prostitution and/or involvement in gangs.
For adults, it may be difficult to determine ADHD since symptoms can appear to change as time. It's important that you have an extensive mental and medical evaluation to ensure that a qualified healthcare provider can make an accurate diagnosis. They'll look at the person's past and present behavior and past events, including childhood ones. They'll also consider other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like stress and anxiety, mineral deficiency, hearing or sight issues, sleep disorders, learning disabilities, cognitive decline as well as allergies and medications.
Treatment options for adults suffering from inattentive ADHD include psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and medications. Stimulants, like dextroamphetamine as well as methylphenidate are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications because they improve focus and reduce the impulsivity. Nonstimulants, such as atomoxetine or Clonidine may be used when stimulants do not work or cause adverse side effects. In addition, therapy can aid adults suffering from inattention ADHD develop a better understanding of their environment and develop coping skills that will minimize the symptoms. They can also benefit cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that helps you learn to manage emotions and how to reframe negative thoughts. Adults may also benefit from a life coach or ADHD Coach who can help them set up an effective routine and realistic expectations.
Hyperactivity
Women suffering from ADHD frequently struggle to feel understood, and they may have a difficult time recognizing the impact their conditions impact their lives. They may have a tough to stay focused or well-organized, which can lead to issues at school and at work, as well as in their private lives. They are more likely to suffer from other conditions such as anxiety or depression. These comorbidities can directly impact 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 or have difficulty maintaining friendships, because of the way their symptoms impact their social. This may make it harder for them to seek help because they are less likely to receive referrals by parents or teachers. Additionally, the scales of rating used to diagnose ADHD tend to be biased towards male behavior. Women can hide their symptoms which can result in them not being diagnosed and thus not being treated.
Another issue is that symptoms of adhd can differ from day to day, especially when hormonal changes occur, such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy. In addition, hormones can have an effect on the functioning of certain parts of the brain, including executive functions such as verbal memory, sleep, and concentration.
For instance, estrogen decreases following ovulation and in the middle of the menstrual cycle while progesterone increases. This can cause ADHD symptoms in a dramatic way.
Young women and girls with ADHD tend to be more aggressive and impatient, which can lead to more conflict in their relationships. They are at a greater chance of engaging in sexual activities with partners they aren't sure about, and they may have a harder time asserting their desires. They could also be at greater risk of being a victim of sexual abuse or domestic violence since they are not contraceptive.
Girls and women suffering from adhd can develop efficient strategies for coping that help them manage their symptoms. They can also benefit by engaging in therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps them improve their understanding and control of their thoughts and emotions and to replace bad behaviors with healthier ones. In certain instances, doctors may suggest couples therapy or family therapy in order to resolve the issues that women and girls with ADHD face in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Women and girls who suffer from ADHD are more likely to struggle with managing their emotions. This may manifest as mood swings and difficulty managing stress or criticism. It may also manifest as an sensitivity to sexual abuse or other forms victimization. They also may be more likely to experience psychosexual problems, including promiscuity, and a higher chance of unwanted pregnancies, or sexually transmitted illnesses. In turn, females suffering from ADHD are often more likely to seek help as they grow older.
what are the symptoms of adhd in adults that men and boys with ADHD suffer from can also be seen in girls and women with the disorder, for example, being fidgety, constantly at a loss, irritable or agitated, talking too much, and making rash decisions without thinking it through. These issues can cause them to be rude or unkind, aswell being prone to risky behaviors. Some women and girls who suffer from ADHD are also prone to non-suicidal self-harm (NSSI) which could include burning, cutting, or scratching. This is especially prevalent during the adolescent years.
Although these issues can make it hard to perform at work or at school, many girls and women with ADHD are skilled at masking them. This can make them appear more conscientious or perfectionists. It can also prevent others from noticing that they're easily distracted or have trouble keeping their focus. Some women who suffer from ADHD have unhealthy coping mechanisms like drinking alcohol or other drugs to mask their issues.
Rating scales used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behaviors and may lead to under-diagnosis of girls or women. The symptoms of ADHD might not be recognized and internalized. This can lead to feelings of self-doubt or shame.
A diet rich in vegetables and fruits whole grains, whole grains and healthy fats can boost concentration and mood for adolescents and adults suffering from ADHD. Regular exercise can improve focus and concentration, as well as release feel-good neurotransmitters to reduce anxiety, stress and depression among those suffering from the disorder. A registered dietitian can help make a plan that meets your individual requirements.
Anxiety
Anxiety is an everyday human emotion, but when it gets out of control and impacts your daily functioning, you may have an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are characterised by unease, distress and excessive anxiety in benign or normal situations. They are present even when there is any reason to be concerned and can cause physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, or a rapid heartbeat. Anxiety disorders affect twice as many women as men and can impact relationships and work.
The gender can also affect how you deal with your ADHD and anxiety. Many women with both ADHD and anxiety have mood swings that could be mistaken by others as "overly emotional." This can cause social problems like broken relationships or job opportunities that are not fulfilling. These mood swings can also make it harder to sleep well which can cause anxiety symptoms worse.
The symptoms of anxiety and ADHD can be more apparent at certain times in your life depending on your age, gender, and hormone levels. For example, if you're an adult woman with ADHD the symptoms may fluctuate throughout the month or during menopausal or pregnancy due to hormonal changes. ADHD symptoms can also be more evident during menstrual cycles or when you're under stress such as an breakup or job loss 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 establish an alarm clock that is set for a regular time. To improve your sleep try listening to calming music before bed or practicing meditation. A healthy diet can help reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms, so try eliminating foods that cause sensitivities or allergies. Try eating plenty of vegetables and fruits whole grains, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and moderate amounts of carbohydrates. Exercise can also reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD. Try to exercise 30 minutes per day or use the light box to increase your exposure to sunlight.