ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who are assigned female at birth (AFAB) who have ADHD often conceal their symptoms. This makes it harder to be diagnosed.
For ADHD to be diagnosed symptoms must be present since childhood. This is technically before the age of 12. Doctors can interview close friends and family members.
Use this quiz to see how your symptoms compare with those of women with ADHD. It can't diagnose you but it can help your healthcare provider determine your needs better.
Signs and symptoms
Many people think of 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 the inattentive version of ADHD is more common among women. This subtype is less evident than the other two. It is usually manifested as a result of internal issues, such as the inability to concentrate or a tendency to think about daydreaming.
Inattention ADHD symptoms in women can include the inability to pay attention in classes or at work, and inadequate time management skills. They may also have difficulties keeping track of their bills or appointments, or even completing household tasks. Women may compensate by working harder or becoming more organized. This could backfire and lead to frustration. Some women turn to unhealthy ways of coping like alcohol and drug drinking.
If you think you might have ADHD or other related disorders, you should speak to your doctor or a mental health professional. They can help you identify symptoms and refer you if required to an expert. Your doctor will ask about your family history, medical history, and any mental health issues that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists five ongoing signs that meet the criteria for ADHD diagnoses. 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. They should also have a negative effect on your life and affect how you perform.
You can reduce the severity of your symptoms by eating healthy by exercising regularly and reducing your intake of processed or sugary food items. You can also try mindfulness meditation to help you relax your body and mind to manage impulsiveness and distraction and promote restful sleeping. You can also discuss with your doctor about 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. However it's not something you can do by yourself. A mental health professional is needed to assess your symptoms and perform an exhaustive physical examination. conversational tone will look over your history in order to rule out any other medical conditions that may be a cause of ADHD.
In many cases, those who are diagnosed with ADHD get treatment right away. There are two types of medications to treat the disorder: stimulants or non-stimulants. Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed because they are more effective and have a longer-lasting effect than non-stimulants. Your psychiatrist or therapist will prescribe a medication based on your requirements. It is best to discuss all your options so that they can make an informed decision regarding your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more prevalent in males and females however, females who are cisgender can also be affected by its symptoms. Due to gender bias, and because many doctors are unaware of the way ADHD affects women, it can be difficult for them as adults to receive a proper diagnosis.
This assessment was designed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on the DSM-5 criteria however, it is divided into women's symptoms. Although it is not able to diagnose you, you can use it to initiate conversations with a therapist, or a medical doctor regarding your symptoms.
Bring all of your symptoms to the evaluator along with any relevant documentation like workplace performance evaluations or copies of test results. The evaluator examines them to determine if they satisfy the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluater will also ask questions about your lifestyle and habits to determine the severity of your symptoms.
For example, the evaluator will need to know the length of time your ADHD symptoms have been present and how they've interfered with your daily routine. They will also review your medical history and conduct tests to rule out any conditions that could cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
The management of ADHD in adulthood can be challenging However, treatments are available. The most common treatment is medication. They can help regulate brain activity and ease symptoms however, they should be prescribed by a healthcare professional and administered under their supervision. In the majority of instances, stimulant medications are the first option. However, non-stimulant drugs can be prescribed in certain instances. In addition to addressing ADHD, your doctor may suggest additional neuropsychological or psychological testing to examine the impact of co-existing disorders like anxiety or depression.
ADHD symptoms can interfere with the development of relationships and personal growth. Women with ADHD may have difficulty interpreting social cues and interpreting body language. This can lead to inadequate communication. This can create difficulties at workplace and at home. Women who suffer from ADHD also are more likely to develop 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 overcome the condition.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step to getting the right diagnosis and treatment. For many adults who suffer from ADHD, their ADHD symptoms are less severe as they age. However, it is still difficult for them to get the assistance 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 advancements in the diagnosis and treatment.
Many women suffering from ADHD can benefit from a change in their lifestyle and therapeutic approaches in addition to medication. Some women with ADHD benefit from working closely with an ADHD coach who can assist them develop strategies for organizing and creating structures to improve their productivity and life. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches them to accept their thoughts and feelings, while swapping negative thinking patterns for healthier ones. Family therapy and counseling for marriage can be beneficial to some women. They can learn how to communicate better with their spouses and how to solve conflicts. A healthy sleep routine can aid in managing symptoms of ADHD like difficulty sleeping and staying awake. This can be accomplished by having a regular sleep routine, listening to soothing music or reading an audiobook, and avoiding electronic devices before bed.
Support
There are many sources available and a network of people who will help you, despite the fact that ADHD isn't a diagnosis for women. Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations, or call your insurance company to locate an ADHD specialist in your area. It's also a good idea to look for an ADHD support group in your local area. These groups can assist you to find health care professionals who have experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults, and can also provide a calming atmosphere.
Doctors may face difficulties diagnosing girls and women with ADHD because they typically present with different symptoms than men and boys. Certain doctors may be misinformed or underestimate the difference, resulting in inaccurate diagnoses and ineffective treatment strategies. This is particularly relevant to hyperactive and impulsive ADHD symptoms.
You can take an online test for female ADHD in case you suspect that you may have the disorder. This free screening tool is based on DSM 5 criteria and was developed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed up with a professional consultation. Please note that this piece uses the words "male" and "female" to refer to gender, however, we will use gender identities that reflect a person's affirmed gender identity.