ADHD in Women Adults
Women suffering from ADHD have a variety of challenges. They may have difficulty to cope with everyday tasks, manage relationships issues, and fulfill social expectations. They may also have difficulty staying focused at work and can't remember appointments.
A recent study examined the experiences of women who were diagnosed with ADHD as they grew older. It found that while diagnosis was a relief and helped to make sense of the past, it was often bitter-sweet.
Diagnosis
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult may be a daunting step towards understanding and managing your symptoms. It can help you to identify your problems and understand that they are something that you can manage as a condition, not something that makes you feel "weird."
Women have a difficult time diagnosing themselves with ADHD because they are more adept at hiding their symptoms. They may resort to disguise their inattention by working late or using devices such as planners and smartphones to keep track of daily tasks. They may also be able to hide their impulsivity if they act quickly to advance a project or make comments in conversations without thinking.
It is important to talk to a mental healthcare professional who has worked with adults for a diagnosis. It's also helpful to have a strong group of family and friends to help navigate the process. A mental health specialist or health care professional may use standardized behavior ratings scales or ADHD symptoms checklists to evaluate adult symptoms and determine if they meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. A physical exam and medical history are also usually part of a diagnostic assessment for adults. Psychological tests can be used to assess executive function, working memory (abilities like making decisions and planning), visual and spatial skills (related to spatial space), reasoning and reasoning abilities.
Untreated ADHD can create a myriad of issues in the lives of women. Certain of these are related to work issues, like having difficulty staying on track, following corporate policies, or meeting deadlines, and can contribute to feelings of low self-esteem or confidence. Furthermore, women who have ADHD can be more likely to suffer from co-occurring disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
Many people who do not get diagnosed for ADHD as adults regret the years they struggled and not knowing why. They may have struggled with their relationships, at work or under financial stress. Matlen says that when people receive a diagnosis they are often required to work through their grief and accept the reality of what went wrong in their past. However, she says that once the diagnosis is in hand, they can move forward with new hope for a better future.
Treatment Options
The good news is that women can receive an assessment and treatment for ADHD. They can also receive the support they need to manage their symptoms at work, home and at school.
The key is to recognize the symptoms that are present, such as difficulty organizing and managing time and tasks and forgetfulness; difficulties in following rules or procedures; trouble working with colleagues, classmates or teachers; and impulsive behavior. These issues can have severe consequences for work and school performance, as well as self-esteem and relationships.
Experts have stated that girls and women are less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD because they can mask their symptoms better than males or boys. They are also less likely to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive or mixed subtypes of the disorder. The symptoms of these subtypes are simpler to detect in boys and men, so they are more likely to draw attention that can lead to being diagnosed.
In addition to behavioral strategies, a lot of people with ADHD discover that therapy or counseling can help them manage their condition. These therapies can help with many symptoms, such as depression and anxiety. Some types of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach you specific techniques to alter negative patterns of thinking that can cause problems in your life.
Other therapies, such as meditation, yoga, and regular exercise can help improve brain function by helping you to calm down and focus your thoughts. They can also help control mood issues and boost your energy levels. Sleeping enough and eating a balanced diet can also help alleviate symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from asking co-workers, teachers, or supervisors to make accommodations. They may request more in-depth explanations or extra time on assignments.
Medications can also be helpful in treating ADHD. Stimulant medications are typically the first line of treatments, however non-stimulant drugs could be an option as well.
Some people with ADHD are able to manage their symptoms through lifestyle changes, getting the right amount of sleep and using technology, such as ADHD-related smartphone apps. They should also visit their doctor regularly and take any prescribed medication. They may also be able to take part in a clinical study, which is a type of research study that explores new methods to treat or prevent illnesses and conditions.
Support Groups
Women may feel lonely when they try to cope with the complexities of ADHD. Support groups can help. There are adhd traits in women that individuals can meet online and share their experiences. Although some of these forums are not moderated by an expert in mental health They can provide an environment where people can share their frustrations and brainstorm solutions with other members. Some of these support groups also provide resources and advice on managing ADHD.
According to one study, females whose symptoms show primarily as inattention are less likely to be recognized and referred for evaluation as males who exhibit similar symptoms. They are also more likely to not be diagnosed and also suffer from impairment. Additionally, many women have learned to mask their symptoms by using strategies such as phone reminders and schedules for the day, to meet societal expectations. These strategies can backfire, leading to additional anxiety and stress.
It is important to find a doctor with a good understanding of the interaction between gender and ADHD. In addition, an experienced counselor can help women identify the ways they may be masking their symptoms and internalizing their struggles. This way, they will be able to identify areas of strength and self-efficacy.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD can positively impact how women view themselves. Many of the women who were interviewed in the study stated that they felt rejoicing when they received the diagnosis. They could then accept their own struggles and feel more confident in their capabilities. Additionally, knowing that they weren't alone allowed them to forgive themselves for their past mistakes and make positive changes in their lives.
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is life-changing. The symptoms can affect their relationships, careers and daily activities. For instance, they may forget appointments or overestimate the time it will take to complete an assignment. They may struggle to concentrate at school or work, and they may struggle with managing their finances. Some women have reported having a hard keeping their marriage or maintaining a relationship, while others struggle with low self-esteem and depression.
Medication
Women with undiagnosed ADHD struggle with dealing with everyday life. They may struggle with financial management, organising their homes, or maintaining healthy relationships. The symptoms can also affect work and academic performance. The longer ADHD is not treated it can have a negative impact on the self-esteem of a woman as well as her capacity to feel confident in her personal life and career.
Many women suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed because their symptoms are less intense or impulsive and more inattentive. This is due to outdated diagnostic criteria, assumptions and an inadvertent understanding that female ADHD symptoms can be different from those of boys and men. It is crucial to remember that some people suffer from co-occurring disorders like depression, anxiety or physical illnesses like sleep disorders, tics and fibromyalgia. These conditions can trigger symptoms similar to those seen in ADHD.
Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD as an adult is a transformative experience that can enhance the quality of life for women. It can also help her regain confidence in herself as she comes to realize that her challenges aren't her fault.
Adults with ADHD typically are treated first with stimulant medication. Some adults might not be able stimulants. Non-stimulant medicines, such as antidepressants or atomoxetine, are available for those who cannot take stimulants. It is crucial to report any other medications or supplements you are taking to your physician, since certain medications interact with other drugs.
A health professional or therapist can help you develop strategies for managing your behavior that can increase productivity and organization and help you manage symptoms. They can also assist you in addressing any emotional issues that may be contributing to the symptoms of ADHD. Some people with ADHD have the benefit of working with a career coach or life coach, because they can help them develop skills for managing daily tasks and setting and meeting goals.
While it is still true that girls and women are more undiagnosed than their male counterparts, there are now more efforts to comprehend and address the differences in diagnosis and treatment. This includes ensuring that all children are screened for ADHD and that women and girls with ADHD receive accurate diagnoses.