ADHD Symptoms in Women
Adult women suffering from ADHD have challenges that a lot of don't realize. Untreated symptoms can cause chaos in relationships and work.
The reason for this is gender bias and the tendency for girls and women to conceal their symptoms. However, increased awareness means more adults are getting the help they require. ADHD symptoms in women are different from those experienced by men. They can be worsened by hormonal fluctuations during menstrual periods as well as pregnancy and menopausal.
Inattention Type Symptoms
Women with inattention ADHD can have difficulty staying focused performing tasks and making mistakes. They may also misunderstand or make mistakes that are not their fault. They may have trouble organizing and may find it difficult to keep the track of their commitments, including paying bills or returning phone calls, as well as sending birthday cards. They also have trouble remembering appointments and often miss meetings or show up late for work or social activities.
adhd symptoms in adult women of inattentive type ADHD are less noticeable than hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms in boys and men, so it's possible that women and girls who have these symptoms don't receive a diagnosis until adulthood. Many people who don't get treated for their symptoms suffer emotional distress, which can lead to poor relationships and co-occurring conditions such as depression or anxiety.
The difficulties of living with ADHD that isn't properly addressed can be overwhelming. For certain people, it can lead to self-blame and unhealthy coping habits that include excessive drinking and substance abuse. Some people resort to unhealthy behaviors, such as eating more or dieting. Teenagers and young girls might self-injure in order to deal with their frustration over not being able to meet their social expectations. This may take the form of cutting, burning, or scratching.
Because of these difficulties it's no surprise that women with inattentive type ADHD are more susceptible to depression and anxiety, which can make it harder to manage their ADHD symptoms. In addition women with these conditions may also have low self-esteem, making it difficult to recognize that their issues are caused by mental health issues instead of being their responsibility.
Girls with inattentive ADHD might also have difficulties understanding social cues, which can make them appear distant or unobservant to other people. They might miss jokes or misread body language and be accused of being rude or offensive. They may also struggle with impulse control and may blurt out hurtful comments or interrupt others.
To increase their concentration, it is essential for women suffering from inattention type ADHD to get enough rest every night and avoid caffeine, nicotine and stimulants. Regular exercise can increase neurotransmitters, which can help with concentration.
Symptoms of Hyperactive/Impulsive Type
Women and adolescent girls with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD can find it hard to concentrate or organize. This can result in clutter in the home and problems paying bills on time. They may also forget appointments, or the names of family members and friends members. They are easily distracted or bored and can't wait to be heard. They are less likely to exhibit the symptoms of depression that are internalized or anxiety, which can be more prevalent in boys and men.
It can be harder to identify and diagnose hyperactive/impulsive ADHD in women than in boys or men. Because these symptoms are more common in boys and men health professionals may not recognize them in women or girls or ignore these symptoms, putting them down to mood issues or gender stereotypes. ADHD rating scales also tend to be influenced by male behavior, which makes it harder to identify and assess the symptoms of women.
The good news is that there are options to manage ADHD as a mature woman as well as taking medication. The most important thing is to find a clinician and therapist experienced in treating ADHD both in women and girls. The type of therapy suggested will depend on the severity of your symptoms and lifestyle, but may include cognitive behavioral therapy to help you validate your experience and reframe negative patterns of thinking Psychoeducation for the family, or help with group work.
For some, a sleep routine, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can ease symptoms. For others, stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin) or lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) may be required.
During menopause, when hormone levels drop, many symptoms of ADHD get worse. During this period you must be on top of things and keep the track of your symptoms and your treatment plan. You can also seek advice from your health care professional to adjust the type or dosage of your medication as necessary. Talk to your therapist or counselor about the difficulties you face in managing your symptoms and how they affect your work, at home, and in relationships. They may also suggest ways to improve your communication with other people and your partner.
Mixed Type Signs and symptoms
Women who have mixed type ADHD often have difficulty in working and at school but they don't have the hyperactive or impulsive signs of the other subtypes. They might miss appointments and documents, or lose important documents or pay bills and have trouble finishing tasks at home. This type of disorder can also cause people to interrupt others, speak without thinking and speak without thinking. Women with this form of the disorder may also have difficulty maintaining friendships and relationships, and find it difficult to be independent.
In many instances, the inattention symptoms of ADHD are the only ones recognized by family members, friends or teachers. This results in girls and young women not being diagnosed. This is caused by gender bias as well as the tendency of people with ADHD symptoms to hide them.
Symptoms of this type of ADHD are caused by hormonal changes that occur during puberty, and during pregnancy and menopause. In these instances estrogen levels decrease, and progesterone levels increase. This makes ADHD symptoms more evident and exacerbates them. The symptoms may also differ from day to day, based on estrogen and progesterone levels. This can lead incorrect diagnosis or inadequate treatment.
In addition to medication, psychotherapy can be used to treat the symptoms of the mixed type. This includes cognitive therapy for behavior, which aids people to change their negative attitudes and behaviors, as well as psychoeducational counseling. Both are accessible online and through local mental clinics.
Regular physical activity such as running, walking or swimming can increase focus and concentration. It can also release neurotransmitters that help boost brain activity and reduce stress or anxiety. adhd symptoms in adult women to manage ADHD include taking breaks regularly, creating routines for the day, and using methods for organizing. Support groups can be helpful in learning about lifestyle changes and coping techniques. A professional ADHD coach can provide personalized individual guidance for certain. People with ADHD may also benefit from a cognitive-behavioral or interpersonal therapy. Therapists can help a person recognize their behavior and how it affects others. They can also develop communication skills.
Adult Type symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD are likely to suffer from different symptoms than males. The gender roles of women can make it difficult for parents and teachers to identify the condition. The disorder can be disguised by depression or other mental health issues that make it less obvious to people who are around you. The symptoms can also vary in response to hormone levels. For instance, during menstruation or pregnancy and menopausal.
Women suffering from ADHD are most likely to suffer from inattention symptoms. You lose things, have difficulty remembering details, and get distracted by what your friends are doing or your thoughts. Your inattentive ADHD symptoms could affect your marriage, school, and other relationships. You might have difficulty paying bills, following directions or keeping an eye on appointments. Your family and friends might notice. Your teacher or boss may notice that you are having difficulty staying focused during meetings or completing tasks in the time frame required.
If you have the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, your symptoms are more noticeable than inattentive ones. You're always at a loss for time, interrupt other people, talk excessively or make up nonsense without being aware of what you're saying. You're unable to wait for your turn or maintain eye contact. You might be impatient and have mood swings that are difficult for your family and friends to tolerate.
It may be difficult to manage your emotions, especially during times of stress and trauma. You may react strongly to criticism or be more prone to get involved in fights, even if the situation isn't particularly serious. You might find it easier to cope with these emotions by engaging in self-destructive behaviors, like drug and alcohol drinking or unhealthy eating habits.
Women who are diagnosed with ADHD can make a difference in their lives with the right treatment. Think about working with a life coach or joining an online ADHD support group. You could also seek assistance from a professional counselor who has expertise in treating women suffering from this disorder. You may want to speak with a psychiatrist, who can help you understand how your genes and brain activity could impact your ADHD symptoms.