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 men and boys, which can lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis.
Women may also experience symptoms aggravated by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy, as well as perimenopausal (the 4 years leading up to menopausal). ADHD treatment that incorporates medication and lifestyle strategies can improve relationships and set people up for success at home and at work.
Inattentiveness
Everyone misplaces their keys or forgets to do an assignment at times, but those who suffer from inattention ADHD can't stop losing track of the things they require for everyday life. They may leave work documents on their desks and fail to clean up the trash or wash clothes and struggle to keep pace during conversations. Their homes are often strewn with unwashed dishes and clutter. They are susceptible to making mistakes that are not considered to be correct and could have expensive consequences.
Inattentive ADHD for females is associated with a greater difficulty in coping with social rejection, and academic underachievement compared to their peers. They may develop dysfunctional ways to cope, including self-harming and an inability for them to maintain friendships or to access peer support. This can result in emotional distress and a low mood. They may compensate for these issues with a heightened confidence that can result in high-risk actions like alcohol or drug prostitution, or involvement in groups.
For adults, it can be difficult to identify ADHD since symptoms can change in time. It is essential to have an extensive mental and medical evaluation to ensure that a qualified healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnose. They will consider the person's behaviour in the past and present, including childhood events. They'll also look for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including stress and anxiety, mineral deficiency, hearing or sight problems, sleep disorders, cognitive decline, learning disabilities and allergies, as well as certain medications.
Adults with inattentional ADHD can be treated with therapy, lifestyle modifications, and medication. Stimulants, such as dextroamphetamine as well as methylphenidate are the most frequently prescribed ADHD drugs because they help improve focus and reduce impulsivity. Non-stimulants, like atomoxetine and clonidine, are employed when stimulants aren't helping or cause adverse effects. Therapy can also help adults with inattentive ADHD develop a better understanding of their environment and develop coping skills that will minimize their symptoms. They can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), which helps them reframe negative thought patterns and manage their emotions. A life coach or ADHD coach can also be helpful for adults, helping them establish a routine and set realistic expectations for themselves.
Hyperactivity
Women with ADHD often have a difficult time feeling accepted, and may be unable to recognize the impact that their disorders affect their lives. They may have difficulty to remain focused or organized which can cause issues at work and school and in their personal lives. They are also more likely to suffer from other conditions, such as depression or anxiety. These complications can have a direct influence on their symptoms and how they manage them.
Girls and women with ADHD may experience low self-esteem and have trouble maintaining friendships due to the way that their symptoms affect their social. This can make it harder to seek treatment and treatment, since they may be less likely to receive referrals by parents or teachers. The rating scales that are used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behavior. Women also have the ability to hide their symptoms, which could result in them being undiagnosed and untreated.
A second challenge is that the symptoms of adhd can fluctuate from day to day. This is particularly true during hormonal changes such as the menstrual period or pregnancy. Hormones also have an impact on certain areas of the brain that are involved in executive functions, verbal memories, sleep and concentration.
For instance, estrogen decreases following ovulation and in the middle of menstrual cycles, while progesterone increases. This combination can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
Girls and young women with ADHD tend to be more impatient and impulsive, leading to more conflict in their relationships. They are more likely to engage in sexual activities with partners they don't know and are difficulties asserting their rights. They could also be more at risk of being a victim of sexual abuse or domestic violence because they do not have contraception.
Girls and women with adhd may find effective coping techniques that can help them manage symptoms. They may also benefit from therapy, which may include cognitive behavioral therapy to help them learn how to better be aware of their thoughts and feelings and replace negative behaviors for healthier ones. In some instances, doctors may recommend couples counseling or family therapy to tackle the issues that women and girls with ADHD may face in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Women and girls who suffer from ADHD are more likely to struggle with controlling their emotions. add symptoms may manifest as mood swings and difficulties managing stress or criticism. It could be accompanied by sensitivity to sexual abuse and other forms victimization. They could also be more likely to experience psychosexual issues, such as promiscuity, or a higher chance of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted illness. Females with ADHD are more likely to seek adult help.
The same impulsive signs that boys and men with ADHD suffer from can also be observed in girls and women with the disorder, like being fidgety, always on the go, disruptive or agitated, talking too much, and making rash decisions without considering them. These issues can cause them to be abrasive or unkind, aswell engaging in risky behavior. Women and girls with ADHD are also prone to nonsuicidal harming themselves (NSSI), which can include cutting, burning, or scratching. This is particularly true during the adolescent years.
Many women and girls suffering from ADHD can mask these symptoms even though they be unable to function at school or at work. This can make them seem more conscientious or a perfectionist. It could also deter others from noticing that they are unable to stay on task or are easily distracted. Women with ADHD also adopt unhealthy strategies to cope that include using alcohol or drugs to cover up their difficulties.
The rating scales for diagnosing ADHD are still biased towards male behavior which could result in a misdiagnosis of girls or women. The symptoms of ADHD may not be recognized and may be absorbed. This can lead to feelings of shame or low self-esteem.
A diet high in vegetables and fruits whole grains, whole grains and healthy fats can improve mood and attention for teens and adults with ADHD. Regular exercise can boost concentration and focus, as well as release feel-good neurotransmitters that reduce stress, anxiety and depression among those suffering from the disorder. A registered dietitian can assist you to create a plan for your specific requirements.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a normal human emotion but when it gets out of hand and affects your daily activities, you may have an anxiety disorder. The symptoms include anxiety, discontent and a fear of the unknown in benign or regular situations. They persist when there is no reason to be worried and may cause physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches or a fast heartbeat. Anxiety disorders affect twice as many women as men and can affect work and relationships.
The gender of your partner can affect how you manage your ADHD and anxiety. Women with ADHD and anxiety often experience mood swings, which could be interpreted as "overly emotional" by others. This can lead to social issues, such as broken relationships and unsuccessful careers. The mood swings can make it harder to sleep enough and can make your anxiety symptoms worse.
The symptoms of anxiety and ADHD may be more noticeable during certain times of your life, based on your gender age, your age and hormone levels. If you are an adult woman with ADHD the symptoms can change during the month, or during pregnancy and menopause due to hormonal changes. Symptoms of ADHD are also more noticeable during menstruation or be more severe during times of stress like breaking up, job loss or any major life occasion.
Sleeping enough can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD, so try to fall asleep at the same time every night, and set an established wake-up time. Try listening to calming music or meditation before you go to bed, and reduce screen time to increase the quality of your sleep. Eating healthy can reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms. Try eliminating foods that trigger sensitivities or allergies. Try eating plenty of vegetables and fruits whole grains, whole grains and lean protein, healthy fats, and moderate amounts of carbs. Exercise can also help reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD. Try to exercise for 30 minutes per day or use an exercise light box to increase your exposure to sunlight.