What Is ADHD Symptoms In Women And How To Use It
ADHD Symptoms in Women Test Positive
You frequently forget things, lose them, or become numb during daily activities. Memory problems can hinder your work and school performance.
The symptoms you experience should be present before the age of 12, last for six months, and cause disruption to your life in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. The test will ask questions about a variety of symptoms related to inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
Inattentional symptoms
Women who aren't attentive ADHD often have difficulty staying organized and remembering specifics. They may lose track of appointments or forget what they've been told to do. They may also have difficulty staying concentrate during college lectures or business meetings. They may also have a difficult time keeping the track of household chores or bills.
Unlike hyperactive/impulsive-type ADHD, inattentive symptoms aren't as noticeable and can make it harder for girls and women to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment. The stigma of ADHD can lead people to believe that women don't have the same symptoms and therefore shouldn't be diagnosed or treated. This makes it more difficult for health professionals and educators to recognize and diagnose girls and women with ADHD.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms are also harder for people to recognize in women and girls because they are more likely to be internalized. For example many women with inattentive ADHD struggle to maintain good work and personal relationships because their impulsivity, forgetfulness and trouble focusing are frequently misinterpreted as being disorganized or disengaged. They may try to compensate by working more, relying on productivity apps, or by becoming more controlling in their relationships.
The hormonal fluctuations women experience throughout their lives can affect ADHD symptoms. These changes are most noticeable in the luteal stage, during breastfeeding, pregnancy, and in the years prior to menopausal, when estrogen levels decrease. Research is ongoing to understand the ways that these hormone changes can impact the person's ADHD symptoms and medications.
It is crucial to recognize that gender refers to a person's biology, including their hormones, chromosomal makeup and anatomy, while sexuality refers to an individual's internal sense of their self as a man or woman, or nonbinary irrespective of the external anatomy. Verywell Health acknowledges that sex is a thorny subject and that some individuals may identify as neither male nor female, or as an intersex individual. Verywell Health doesn't define the gender of its readers. Please see the Verywell Health FAQ on sex and gender for more details.
Hyperactive Signs and symptoms
Generally speaking, women with ADHD are not as afflicted with as many hyperactive symptoms as men do. Because of this, it can be more difficult for them to be diagnosed and treated. This does not mean, however, that ADHD isn't present in women. In fact, it is quite the opposite The number of ADHD diagnoses in women has increased from 2020.
In childhood the likelihood for boys is higher to receive an ADHD diagnosis than girls. As they get older the odds of being diagnosed with ADHD even out. However, it can still be more difficult for adults with ADHD to recognize their condition because the symptoms can change over time and could be confused with other conditions.
For instance, people suffering from ADHD are unable to sleep at night. The difficulty can be exacerbated by stress, hormone fluctuations or medications used to treat other conditions. An excessive food intake or drinking before bedtime can make it worse. It is important to keep in mind that getting a good night's sleep is an essential aspect of managing ADHD in adults. Practicing healthy sleep habits, like establishing the routine and utilizing a weighted blanket, can help.
Problems with emotions can be particularly difficult for women suffering from ADHD, who are more prone to mood swings. This can lead to being misunderstood by other people or dismissed, which can cause relationship issues. Additionally, they could be more susceptible to disorders such as depression that can make it difficult for them to concentrate or remember things.
To find out more about ADHD it is essential to talk to an experienced health professional. This includes a complete evaluation and diagnosis. There are three subtypes of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and mixed. To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person has to have at minimum six symptoms in each category over a period of six months. Inattentive ADHD symptoms are typically more internal, for example, daydreaming or being easily distracted. Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms are more visible and include fidgeting, squirming in a chair or running around in situations where remaining seated is expected. Mixed ADHD is the most common and can cause both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.
Instinctive Symptoms
Women who suffer from impulsive ADHD often experience trouble in social situations. They may talk excessively and off-topic conversations, and can't discern body language or social cues. They may also have difficulty controlling their emotions. This could make them more susceptible to anger or rage. This makes it difficult for them to be part of groups or be able to connect with others. Women with an impulsive ADHD are more likely to have a sexual urge earlier in life, which can cause unwanted pregnancy or STIs.
Mood swings are commonplace in women suffering from ADHD and many notice that their symptoms become more severe during certain periods of the month, or during major life events, such as a divorce or loss of loved ones. Stereotyping about gender and other factors can cause women suffering from an impulsive ADHD to be misunderstood or dismissed as "overly emotional."
In addition, since women are generally better in hiding their ADHD symptoms than males are, it can be harder for them to receive an assessment or treatment. Some experts believe that this is because females develop strategies and coping mechanisms which help them conceal their ADHD. These might include adjusting their schedule or setting reminders for appointments, using self-care or medication techniques to control their symptoms, or changing their behavior to fit social expectations.
Finally, women with ADHD may have trouble getting enough rest and this can affect their attention and impulsivity. Try to establish a regular bedtime routine. Do calming activities and avoid watching TV prior to going to going to bed. Exercise can also enhance your sleep quality as it releases neurotransmitters that boost your mood and improve focus.
It is essential to consult a mental health professional to get a diagnosis if you suspect you may have ADHD. It is the only way you can confirm that you are suffering from ADHD and to determine the severity of your symptoms. Find an Therapist can assist you if you're willing to take a step forward.
Social Signs and Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might find it difficult to manage their symptoms in social situations. They can feel like others are less tolerant of them since they don't pay attention to, listen or follow through with things. adhd symptoms in women can lead to miscommunications and irritability in relationships, both personal and professional.
Women may also have a harder time getting diagnosed with ADHD because they tend to cover up their symptoms. This is to conform to societal norms and expectations, as well as to manage everyday tasks. This could include healthy coping strategies, such as using a calendar or setting reminders on their phone, but it can also lead to unhealthy coping strategies, such as excessive fidgeting, skipping meals and working longer hours to compensate.
ADHD symptoms can be difficult to recognize in women who are older, since they can be confused with other conditions such as anxiety or depression. Anxiety and ADHD share a number of common symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, feeling restless or having trouble sleeping. However, the irritability and disorganization, as well as the impulsivity of ADHD are not usually present in people suffering from anxiety.
ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity can be misinterpreted as a sign of mood disorders, particularly for adults. Women with the history of bipolar disorder, depression or other mood disorders may be more likely to develop ADHD. It is crucial to have a medical professional you trust to look at your symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis.
Adult women suffering from ADHD can improve their quality of life by learning coping skills and seeking treatment. They might benefit from counseling with a therapist in order to develop how to regulate their emotions or coaching by a professional who will teach them strategies for managing their behavior and help them set goals. You can also take medication for ADHD symptoms with the prescription of a doctor. Stimulant medication is typically prescribed for people with ADHD however, alternatives that are not stimulant can be just as effective in some cases.