ADHD Symptoms For Women
Girls and women with ADHD can experience a variety of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and anxiety. However, these symptoms can be less noticeable than those of boys and men, which can lead to underdiagnosis or mistaken diagnosis.
Women can also find their symptoms exacerbated by hormonal changes such as during menstrual cycles as well as during pregnancy and perimenopausal (the four years leading up to menopause). ADHD treatment that incorporates medication and lifestyle strategies can improve relationships and set people up for success at work and at home.
Inattentiveness
People with inattention ADHD are incapable of keeping track of their daily needs. They may forget to pick up the laundry or empty the trash cans, and they may be unable to keep up with conversations. They may forget to clean up their laundry or empty the trash bins. They also have trouble maintaining a conversation. Their homes are often cluttered and not cleaned. They are prone to make errors that aren't considered and can lead to costly consequences.
Inattentive ADHD in females is associated with more difficulty coping with social rejection, as well as academic underachievement compared to their peers. They might develop dysfunctional coping strategies like self-harming behavior and a lack of ability to maintain friendships or gain access to peer support, which can lead to depression and emotional distress. They might attempt to overcome these difficulties with a strong confidence that can result in high-risk actions like alcohol or drug prostitution, or involvement in gangs.
For adults, it may be difficult to determine ADHD since symptoms can change over time. It's crucial to undergo a complete medical and mental health evaluation so that a qualified health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis. They'll take into account the patient's behaviour in the past and present as well as childhood experiences. They'll also look for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including anxiety and stress, mineral deficiency, hearing or vision problems, sleep disorders, cognitive decline, learning disabilities, allergies, and certain medications.
Adults who suffer from inattentional ADHD are treated with psychotherapy, lifestyle changes and medication. Stimulants, like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate, are the most frequently prescribed ADHD drugs because they help improve concentration and decrease impulsivity. Nonstimulants such as atomoxetine or Clonidine may be used when stimulants do not work or cause adverse side effects. Therapy can also aid adults with inattention ADHD alter their surroundings and develop coping strategies to manage their symptoms. They may benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), which teaches them to modify negative thought patterns and manage their emotions. A life coach or ADHD coach can be useful for adults, helping them establish a routine and establish realistic expectations for themselves.
Hyperactivity
Women who suffer from ADHD may have difficulty to understand and may not realize the impact of their conditions on their lives. They may have difficulty to remain focused or organized which can cause issues at school and work and in their personal lives. They are also more likely to be suffering from other conditions, such as depression or anxiety. These complications can have a direct impact on their symptoms and how they manage them.
Because of the way ADHD affects girls and women and women, they can suffer from low self-esteem and have difficulty maintaining friendships. It is also more difficult for them to get treatment as they are less likely to receive an appointment from their teachers or parents. In addition, rating scales used to diagnose ADHD tend to be skewed towards male behaviors. Women can hide their symptoms, which could result in them not being diagnosed and therefore not receiving treatment.
Another issue is that the symptoms of adhd can change from day to day. This is particularly the case when there are hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Additionally, hormones have an impact on the functioning of certain parts of the brain, including executive functions including sleep, verbal memory, and concentration.
For example, estrogen decreases following ovulation and in the middle of the menstrual cycle, while progesterone increases. This combination can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
Girls and young women who have ADHD are more impulsive, impatient, and prone to a conflict in their relationships. They are more likely to engage in sexual activities with people they don't know and have a hard time asserting their rights. They could also be at greater risk of sexual assault or domestic violence due to the fact that they lack contraception.
Adhd sufferers and their daughters might find effective strategies for coping that will help them to manage the symptoms. They may also benefit from therapy, which may include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps them understand how to be aware of their thoughts and feelings, and to swap out negative patterns of behavior for more healthy ones. In some cases doctors may recommend couples therapy or family therapy in order to address the difficulties that girls and women with ADHD face in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Women and girls with ADHD may be more likely to struggle with controlling their emotions. This can manifest as mood swings or difficulty dealing with criticism or stress. It could be manifested as an sensitivity to sexual abuse or other forms victimization. They may also be more likely to experience sexual issues, including sexual promiscuity or a greater risk of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted illness. Females with ADHD are more likely to seek adult help.
The same impulsive behaviors that both boys and men with ADHD suffer from can also be observed in women and girls suffering from the disorder, such as being fidgety, constantly at a loss, irritable or agitated, talking too much, and making rash decisions without thinking them through. These problems can also lead to them being aggressive, rude and engaging in risky behaviours. Additionally, adhd in women symptoms and women with ADHD may be susceptible to non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) which includes cutting or burning particularly during the adolescent years.
Many girls and women with ADHD are able to hide their symptoms, even though they may make it difficult to cope at school or at work. This can make them appear more careful or perfectionists. It can also prevent others noticing that they are easily distracted or have difficulty keeping their focus. Some women who suffer from ADHD develop unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as using alcohol or other drugs to mask their issues.
The scales used to diagnose ADHD are still biased toward male behavior which can lead to a misdiagnosis of women or girls. The symptoms of ADHD might not be recognized and internalized. This can cause feelings of shame or low self-esteem.
A diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables whole grains, whole grains, and healthy fats can boost the mood and focus of teens and adults with ADHD. Regular exercise can boost concentration and focus and also release good neurotransmitters that reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. A registered dietitian can help make a plan that meets your specific needs.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a normal human emotion, however, when it gets out of control and affects your daily functioning you could be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Symptoms include distress, unease, and excessive fright in normal or everyday situations. They can be present even when there's any reason to worry and can cause physical symptoms, such as stomachaches, headaches, or a fast heartbeat. Anxiety disorders are twice as common in women as men, and they can interfere with work and personal relationships.
It is also possible that gender plays an important role in how you ADHD and anxiety are handled. Many women with both ADHD and anxiety suffer from mood swings that may be misinterpreted by others as being "overly emotional." This can lead to social problems that can result in strained relationships or unfulfilling jobs. The mood swings can also make it difficult to sleep and can increase the severity of your anxiety symptoms.
The symptoms of anxiety and ADHD are more evident at certain times of your life, based on your age, gender and hormone levels. For instance, if you're an adult woman with ADHD the symptoms may fluctuate throughout the month, or during pregnancy and menopause due to hormonal changes. ADHD symptoms can be more evident during menstrual cycles, or when you're under stress like a breakup or job loss, or major life events.
To reduce the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, try to fall asleep at the same time each night and establish a time when you wake up. Try listening to music that is calming or meditate prior to going to bed and limit screen time to increase your sleep quality. A healthy diet can help reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms, so consider eliminating foods that trigger sensitivities or allergies. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables whole grains, healthy fats and protein that is lean. Exercise can also reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD. Try to exercise for 30 minutes a day or use an exercise light box to increase your exposure to sunlight.