ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and people who are assigned female at birth disguise their symptoms of ADHD. This can make it harder to receive an assessment.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must have existed from childhood, technically before age 12. Doctors may interview close friends and family members.
Take this test to determine how your symptoms compare to those of a woman with ADHD. This quiz can't diagnose however it will help your healthcare provider get a better understanding of your requirements.
Symptoms
Many people view ADHD as a disorder that affects children, but it can also be seen in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive type of ADHD is more common in women than men. This type of ADHD is less apparent than the other two. It is usually manifested as a result of internal issues like the inability to concentrate or a tendency for daydreaming.
Inattention ADHD symptoms in women can include forgetfulness, difficulty paying attention in classes or at work, and insufficient time management abilities. They may also have trouble keeping track of bills and appointments or performing household chores. Women may compensate by working harder or being more organized. This could backfire and lead to frustration. Some women turn to unhealthy coping behaviors, for example, alcohol and drug consumption.
If you suspect you have ADHD or other related disorders, you should speak to your doctor or mental health professional. They can assist you in identifying your symptoms and send you to a specialist if needed. Your doctor will need to know your medical history, family history and any other mental health issues you might have that may be causing the effects of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five ongoing symptoms to meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. You must have at least three of these symptoms to be diagnosed with inattentive ADHD or at least four of the hyperactive-impulsive symptoms to be diagnosed with the combined type of ADHD.
You must have experienced symptoms for at minimum six consecutive months before you can be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms are also affecting your life negatively and affecting your ability to perform.
You can reduce the severity of your symptoms by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, as well as cutting down on sugary or processed food items. You can also try mindfulness meditation to help calm your mind and body as well as control impulsiveness and distractibility and promote restful sleep. You can also speak with your doctor about using medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is a vital step to managing the symptoms and living the life you desire. But, it's not something you're able to do by yourself. A mental health professional is required to evaluate your symptoms and conduct a thorough physical exam. A medical doctor will also examine your medical history to rule out other conditions that could be a cause of ADHD.
Many people suffering from ADHD are treated immediately after being diagnosed. There are two main medications for the disorder: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants tend to be more well-known because they are faster in their action and have a longer lasting effect than non-stimulants. The kind of medication your therapist or psychiatrist prescribes to you will depend on your specific needs. It is best to discuss all your options so that they can make an informed choice about your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more common among boys and men but cisgender females too can suffer from its symptoms. Due to the gender-based bias and the fact that many doctors aren't aware of the ways ADHD can affect women, it can be more difficult for women to receive a reliable diagnosis as adults.
visit the website was created using the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based off the DSM-5 criteria, but is broken down into symptoms for women. While it cannot diagnose you but you can use it to start a conversation with a therapist or a medical doctor regarding your symptoms.
Bring all your symptoms to the evaluator along with any relevant documents like performance evaluations at work or copies of test results. The evaluator will go through them to determine if your symptoms meet the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator will also ask questions about your life and routines to determine the severity of your symptoms.
For example, the evaluator will be looking to determine how long your ADHD symptoms have been present and how they've interfered with your life. They will also go over your medical history and perform tests to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
Managing ADHD in adulthood can be a challenge however, treatment options are available. Medications are the most common therapy. They can reduce symptoms and control brain activity, but they must be prescribed and taken under the supervision of a medical professional. In most instances, stimulant medication is the first option. However, non-stimulant drugs can be prescribed in certain situations. Your doctor might also suggest tests for neuropsychological or psychological testing to determine the impact of coexisting conditions such as anxiety or depression.
The signs of ADHD can affect relationships and personal development. Women who suffer from ADHD often have a harder to read social cues and recognizing body language, which can lead to poor communication skills. This can cause problems at home and at work. Women with ADHD also are more susceptible to mood disorders like anxiety and depression. It is estimated that 60% of people with ADHD continue to suffer from symptoms into adulthood. Women are also less likely than men to overcome the condition.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step in obtaining a proper diagnosis and treatment. As people age, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. It is difficult for them to receive the assistance and support they require. The positive side is that current research on ADHD is geared toward understanding its effects on women, and advancements in treatment and diagnosis are being made.
In addition to medications, many women with ADHD benefit from a range of lifestyle changes and strategies for treating. For example some women benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can teach them ways to manage their time and create structures to enhance their lives and productivity. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches women to accept their thoughts and feelings while replacing negative thinking patterns with more positive ones. Women who are pregnant may also benefit from family therapy and marital counseling. They can learn to communicate better with their partners and settle conflicts. A healthy sleeping routine can make a huge difference in managing symptoms of ADHD like difficulty staying focused and falling asleep at late at night. This includes a regular sleep routine, listening relaxing to music or listening to an audiobook and staying away from electronics before going to bed.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women isn't well-diagnosed however, there are plenty of resources and a huge community of people willing to support you. Ask your primary care physician for recommendations, or contact your insurance company to locate an ADHD specialist near you. Additionally, it's always a good idea to look for an ADHD support group in your region. A lot of these groups will assist you in finding health specialists who are proficient in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults and provide a supportive environment.
Doctors may have difficulty diagnosing girls and women with ADHD, as they often have different symptoms than boys and men. Some physicians may misunderstand or underestimate these differences, leading to incorrect diagnoses and inadequate treatment strategies. This is particularly true when it comes to the hyperactive, impulsive, and inattentive symptoms of ADHD.
You can take an online test for female ADHD if you suspect you may have the disorder. This free screening tool is based on DSM 5 criteria and was designed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. This is not a diagnostic test and should be followed by a consultation with a professional. Please note that the article uses "male" and "female" as terms to refer to gender. However, we are committed to using sex identities that reflect a person’s affirmed gender.