ADHD Symptoms For Women
Girls and women with ADHD can experience a variety of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and anxiety. Yet these symptoms may be less apparent than those of boys and men who suffer from ADHD, which could lead to underdiagnosis or mistaken diagnosis.
Women can have symptoms that are aggravated by hormonal fluctuations, like those during menstruation or pregnancy, or during perimenopausal periods (4 years before menopause). ADHD treatment that incorporates strategies for living and medication can enhance relationships and help people achieve success at home and work.
Inattentiveness
People with inattentive ADHD are not able to keep track of their daily needs. They might forget to clean up the laundry or empty the trash bins, and they may be unable to keep up with conversations. They might leave work-related documents on their desks and fail to clean up garbage or empty trash bins and struggle to keep pace during conversations. Their houses are often filled with dishes that have not been cleaned. They're more prone to making mistakes that could have devastating consequences.
Inattentive ADHD in females is associated with a greater difficulty coping with social rejection, and academic failure compared to their peers. They may develop dysfunctional ways for coping, like self-harming and an inability to maintain friendships or access peer support. This can result in feelings of emotional distress and a depressed mood. They may compensate for these issues by displaying a strong attitude that could result in high-risk behaviors such as drug or alcohol consumption, prostitution or involvement in gangs.
Adults may have trouble diagnosing ADHD because symptoms can change as time passes. It is essential to have a complete medical and mental evaluation to ensure that a qualified healthcare professional can make an accurate diagnose. They will consider the person's behavior in the past and now and past events, including childhood ones. They'll also look for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, including anxiety and stress, mineral deficiency, hearing or sight issues, sleep disorders cognitive decline, learning disabilities, allergies, and certain medications.
Treatment options for adults with inattentive ADHD include psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and medications. Stimulants, such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate, are the most commonly prescribed ADHD drugs because they help improve concentration and decrease the impulsivity. Nonstimulants, such as Clonidine and atomoxetine can be employed when stimulants aren't helping or cause side consequences. Therapy can also aid adults suffering from inattention ADHD develop a better understanding of their environment and develop coping skills that can reduce their symptoms. They can also benefit cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that teaches how to manage emotions and reframe negative thoughts. Adults can also benefit from an individual life coach or ADHD Coach who can assist them to set up the right schedule and realistic expectations.
Hyperactivity
Women with ADHD may find it difficult to be understood and may not recognize the impact of their conditions on their lives. They may have a difficult time staying focused or organized, which can cause issues at school and at work, as well as in their private lives. They are also more likely to be suffering from other ailments, such as anxiety or depression. These comorbidities could directly impact their symptoms and how they manage those symptoms.
Because of signs of adult add in which ADHD affects girls and women in particular, they can develop low self-esteem and struggle with maintaining friendships. It can also be more difficult to receive treatment since they are less likely to receive a referral from their teachers or parents. The scales for rating that are used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behavior. Women are also prone to the ability to cover up their symptoms, which could result in them being undiagnosed and untreated.
Another challenge is that the symptoms of adhd can change from day-to-day and can be particularly noticeable during hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy. In addition, hormones can have an effect on the functioning of specific areas of the brain, including executive functions such as verbal memory, sleep, and concentration.
For example, estrogen decreases after ovulation, and in the middle of the menstrual cycle, while progesterone is elevated. This can cause ADHD symptoms dramatically.
Girls and young women with ADHD tend to be more impulsive and impatient, leading to more conflict in their relationships. They are more likely to engage in sexual interactions with people who aren't familiar with and have a hard time asserting their rights. They could also be at risk of being victims of sexual assault and domestic violence since they might not have a means of contraception.
Girls and women suffering from adhd can find effective strategies to cope that can help them manage their symptoms. They can also benefit from undergoing therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy to better manage their thoughts and emotions and to replace harmful behaviors with healthier ones. In certain situations, doctors might suggest 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 are more likely to have difficulty controlling their emotions. This can manifest as mood swings and difficulties dealing with criticism or stress. It may be accompanied by sensitivity to sexual abuse and other forms victimization. They could also be more likely to experience psychosexual issues, like promiscuity, or a higher chance of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease. This means that women with ADHD tend to be more likely to seek help as they grow older.
Girls and women who have ADHD may exhibit similar behavior patterns that males and females. They may be unfocused or restless, and always in motion. They can also be prone to excessive talking and making rapid decisions. These issues can result in them becoming rude, unkind, and engaging in risky behaviors. Some women and girls with ADHD are also prone to self-harming non-suicidal (NSSI), which can include cutting, burning, or scratching. This is especially true in the adolescent years.
signs of adult add and girls with ADHD can mask these symptoms even though they cause difficulties at school or in the workplace. This can make them appear more diligent or perfectionists. This can prevent others noticing that they are easily distracted or have trouble keeping their focus. Some women with ADHD also develop unhealthy coping strategies which include the use of alcohol or drugs to cover up their difficulties.
The scales used to diagnose ADHD are still skewed towards male behavior which could result in a misdiagnosis of females or girls. The symptoms may not be recognized as being associated with ADHD and can be internalized, resulting into feelings of shame and low self-esteem.
For teenagers and adults suffering from ADHD, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables whole grains, healthy fats and protein can boost mood and attention. Regular exercise can boost concentration and focus and also release good neurotransmitters which reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It is helpful to speak with a registered dietitian to create an appropriate plan for each individual.
Anxiety
Anxiety is normal, but if it gets out of control and becomes a problem in your daily life, you could have an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are characterised by a sense of unease, discomfort and a high level of fear in normal or non-threatening situations. They can be present even when there is no reason to be concerned and can cause physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches, or rapid heartbeat. Anxiety disorders affect more women than men and can impact work and relationships.
Gender can also play an important role in how you ADHD and anxiety are handled. Many women who suffer from both ADHD and anxiety experience mood swings that can be misinterpreted by others as being "overly emotional." This could lead to social issues, such as strained relationships or unfulfilling jobs. The mood swings can also cause insomnia, which will cause anxiety symptoms to worsen.
The symptoms of anxiety and ADHD can be more apparent at certain times of your life depending on your age, gender 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 evident during menstrual cycle or flare up during periods of heightened stress such as breaking up, job loss, or an important life occasion.
To reduce the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, try to fall asleep at the same time every night and set a regular time to get up. To help you sleep better, try listening to calming music before bed or practicing meditation. Healthy eating can also help reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms, so consider eliminating foods that trigger sensitivities or allergies. Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits whole grains, whole grains, nutritious fats and protein that is lean. Exercise can also help reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD. Try to exercise for 30 minutes per day, or use a light therapy box to increase exposure to sunlight.