ADHD Symptoms For Women
Girls and women with ADHD can experience a variety of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and anxiety. These symptoms are less apparent in women and girls than they are for boys and men. This could result in a misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis.
Women may have symptoms that are exacerbated by hormonal changes, such as those during menstruation or pregnancy, or even perimenopausal (4 years before menopause). ADHD treatment that incorporates lifestyle strategies and medication can improve relationships and help people succeed at home and at work.
Inattentiveness
Everyone loses their keys and fails to complete a task occasionally, but people with inattentive ADHD cannot seem to keep their way to the things they require in everyday life. They may forget to pick up their laundry or empty the trash bins. They also have trouble in keeping up with conversations. Their houses are often filled with clutter and unwashed dishes. They are more prone to make careless mistakes that can have expensive consequences.
Females who have inattention ADHD also have more trouble managing social rejection and academic underachievement as compared to their peers. They may develop dysfunctional ways of coping, such as self-harming behaviors and a lack of ability for them to maintain friendships or access peer support. This can cause feelings of emotional distress and a depressed mood. They may compensate for these issues by displaying a strong sense bravado which can result in high-risk actions such as alcohol or drug use, prostitution and/or involvement in groups.
Adults can be a challenge in diagnosing ADHD, as symptoms can change as time passes. However, it's important to undergo a complete medical and mental health evaluation to ensure that a certified health professional can make an accurate diagnosis. They'll look at the person's current and past behavior, as well as childhood experiences. They'll also check for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like stress and anxiety, mineral deficiency, hearing and vision issues, sleep disorders learning disabilities, cognitive decline as well as allergies and medications.
Adults with inattentional ADHD can be treated using therapy, lifestyle modifications and medication. The most common ADHD medications are stimulants such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. They help concentration and decrease impulses. Non-stimulants, like atomoxetine and clonidine, are employed when stimulants aren't helping or cause side negative effects. Therapy can also assist adults suffering from inattention ADHD alter their surroundings and develop coping techniques to reduce their symptoms. They can also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a type of therapy that helps you learn to manage emotions and how to reframe negative thoughts. Adults can also benefit from a life coach or ADHD Coach, who will help them establish the right schedule and realistic expectations.
Hyperactivity
Women suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to understand and may not realize the impact of their conditions on their lives. They may have a difficult time staying focused or well-organized, which can result in difficulties at school and work, as well as in their private lives. They are also more likely to be suffering from other health issues, like depression or anxiety. These comorbidities can have a direct influence on their symptoms and how they manage them.
Women and girls with ADHD can develop low self-esteem and have trouble maintaining friendships due to how their symptoms affect their social. This can make it more difficult for them to seek help because they are less likely to be referred by teachers or parents. The scales for rating that are used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behavior. Many women hide their symptoms, which could result in them not being diagnosed and not being treated.
Another challenge is that the symptoms of adhd can differ from day to day and can be particularly noticeable during hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Hormones also have an effect on certain parts of the brain, such as executive functions, memory of words and sleep, as well as concentration.
Progesterone rises after ovulation and estrogen decreases in the middle of your menstrual cycle. This combination can worsen ADHD symptoms.
Young women and girls who suffer from ADHD can be more impatient and impulsive, leading to more conflict in their relationships. They are at a higher risk of engaging in sexual interactions with partners that they aren't certain about, and they have difficulty expressing their desires. They could also be at a higher risk of being a victim of sexual abuse or domestic violence since they are not contraceptive.
Girls and women suffering from adhd can find effective coping strategies that help them manage their symptoms. They can also benefit from therapy, which could include cognitive behavioral therapy to learn how to better comprehend their thoughts and feelings, and to swap out negative patterns of behavior to healthier ones. In certain instances, doctors may recommend couples counseling or family therapy to tackle the challenges that girls and women with ADHD can have in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Girls and women with ADHD might be more likely to struggle with managing their emotions. This may manifest as mood swings, difficulty in coping with stress or criticism and sensitivity to sexual assault and other forms of victimization. They also may be more prone to develop sexual issues, such as promiscuity, and a higher chance of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted illnesses. In turn, females suffering from ADHD tend to be more likely to seek assistance as they grow older.
The same impulsive signs that boys and men with ADHD are prone to can be observed in women and girls with the disorder, such as being fidgety, always at a loss, irritable or restless, talking a lot and making decisions without thinking it through. These issues can result in them becoming rude, unkind, and engaging in risky behaviors. Some girls and women with ADHD are also susceptible to self-harming non-suicidal (NSSI), which can include cutting, burning, or scratching. This is particularly true in the adolescent years.
Although these issues can make it difficult for people to perform at work or school, many women and girls who suffer from ADHD are adept at hiding these symptoms. This can make them seem more organized or a perfectionist, and it could also deter people from noticing that they are unable to stay focused or easily distracted. Some women who suffer from ADHD develop unhealthy coping mechanisms that include drinking alcohol or drugs to deal with their issues.
The scales of rating used to diagnose ADHD are still skewed towards male behaviors which could result in a misdiagnosis 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 that is rich in vegetables and fruits whole grains, whole grains and healthy fats can boost concentration and mood for adults and teens with ADHD. Regular exercise can improve focus and concentration and release good neurotransmitters which reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. A registered dietitian can help develop a plan to meet your individual needs.
Anxiety
Anxiety is normal, but if it becomes uncontrollable and affects your daily routine you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. The symptoms include anxiety, discontent and an excessive fear in normal or routine situations. They can be present even when there's little or any reason to be concerned and can cause physical symptoms, such as stomachaches, headaches or a fast heartbeat. Anxiety disorders affect more women than men and can impact work and relationships.
The gender of your partner can play a role in how your ADHD and anxiety are handled. Many women who have both ADHD and anxiety have mood swings that could be mistaken by others as "overly emotional." This could lead to social issues, such as tension in relationships or a lack of satisfaction at work. Mood swings may also cause insomnia which can increase the severity of your anxiety symptoms.
The signs of anxiety and ADHD can be more evident during certain times of your life, based on your gender, age, and hormone levels. If you are an adult woman suffering from ADHD the symptoms can change throughout the month, or during menopausal pregnancy, due to hormonal changes. The symptoms of ADHD can also be more apparent during menstrual cycles or when they be more severe during times of heightened stress such as the break-up of a relationship, a job loss, or an important life occasion.
To lessen the effects of ADHD and anxiety, try to fall asleep at the same time every night and establish a regular time to wake up. To get better sleep, try listening to calming music before bed or practicing meditation. Eating healthy can reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms. Try eliminating visit their website that trigger allergies or sensitivities. Take advantage of plenty of vegetables and fruits whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Exercise can also help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD. Try to exercise for 30 minutes a day or utilize a light therapy box to increase exposure to sunlight.