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 the men and boys who suffer from ADHD, which could lead to underdiagnosis or mistaken diagnosis.
Women may 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 lifestyle and medication can improve relationships and prepare people for success at work and home.
Inattentiveness
People with inattention ADHD are unable to keep track of their daily needs. They may forget to pick up the laundry or empty the trash bins and have trouble keeping pace in conversations. They may forget to pick up their laundry or empty the trash cans. They also have trouble maintaining a conversation. Their homes are often messy and not cleaned. They are prone to make errors that aren't considered and can lead to expensive consequences.
Females with inattentive ADHD also have more trouble dealing with academic failure and social rejection as compared to their peers. They may develop coping strategies that are dysfunctional, like self-harming behavior and a lack of ability to maintain friendships or gain access to peer support, which can lead to emotional distress and low mood. They may compensate for these issues with a heightened sense bravado which can lead to high-risk activities such as drug or alcohol use, prostitution and/or involvement in groups.
Adults can be a challenge in diagnosing ADHD, as symptoms can change as time passes. It's important that you have an extensive mental and medical assessment so that a skilled healthcare professional can make an accurate diagnose. They'll take into account the patient's present and past behavior, which includes childhood experiences. They will also check for conditions that could trigger similar symptoms. These include anxiety and stress mineral deficiencies hearing or vision issues, sleep disorders, cognitive degeneration, learning disabilities, allergies and certain medications.
Treatment options for adults with inattentive ADHD include psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and medication. Stimulants like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate, are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications because they improve focus and reduce impulsivity. Nonstimulants, such as Clonidine and atomoxetine can be employed when stimulants aren't helping or cause adverse side negative effects. Therapy can also help adults with inattention ADHD alter their surroundings and learn coping skills to minimize their symptoms. adhd adults symptoms can also benefit cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that helps you learn to manage emotions and change the way they think about negative thoughts. A life coach or ADHD coach can be beneficial for adults, helping them establish a routine and establish realistic expectations for themselves.
Hyperactivity
Women who suffer from ADHD might find it difficult to be understood and not be aware of the impact of their symptoms on their lives. They may find it difficult to stay focused or organized, which can cause problems at school and work and in their personal lives. They are more likely to be suffering from other conditions such as anxiety or depression. These comorbidities may have a direct effect on their symptoms, as well as how they manage their symptoms.
Because of the manner in which ADHD affects women and girls in particular, they can develop low self-esteem and have difficulty maintaining friendships. It may also be more difficult for them to access treatment because they are less likely to receive an appointment from their teachers or parents. The scales of rating used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behavior. Many women also have the ability to hide their symptoms, which could result in them not being diagnosed and undertreated.
Another issue is that symptoms of adhd differ from day to day particularly when hormonal changes occur, such as the menstrual cycle or pregnancy. In addition, hormones have an impact on the function of certain areas of the brain, including executive functions such as sleep, verbal memory and concentration.
Progesterone rises after ovulation and estrogen decreases during the middle of your menstrual cycle. This causes ADHD symptoms in a dramatic way.
Girls and young women who suffer from ADHD are more impulsive, impatient and susceptible to a conflict in their relationships. They are at a greater chance of engaging in sexual activity with partners that they are not sure about, and they may have a harder time asserting their desires. They may also be at a higher risk of sexual abuse or domestic violence since they lack contraception.
Girls and women with adhd may find effective coping techniques that can help them to manage the symptoms. They may also benefit from therapy, which can include cognitive behavioral therapy to learn how to better comprehend their thoughts and feelings, and to swap out negative behaviors for healthier ones. In some cases doctors may suggest couples therapy or family therapy in order to tackle the issues women and girls with ADHD face in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Women and girls who suffer from ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties managing their emotions. adhd adults symptoms may manifest as mood swings or difficulty managing stress or criticism. It can also manifest as vulnerability to sexual abuse and other forms of victimization. They are also more prone to develop sexual issues, such as sexual promiscuity and a higher risk of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases. Females with ADHD are more likely to seek adult help.
The same impulsive behaviors that boys and men with ADHD suffer from can also be seen in girls and women with the disorder, such as being fidgety, always at a loss, irritable or restless, talking a lot and making decisions without considering them. These issues can cause them to be aggressive, rude and engaging in risky behaviours. In addition, some girls and women with ADHD may be susceptible to non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) that includes cutting, burning or scratching, especially in the adolescent years.
Many women and girls suffering from ADHD can mask these symptoms even though they cause difficulties at school or at work. This can make them appear more diligent, or perfectionists. This can prevent others noticing that they are easily distracted or have trouble staying focused. Women with ADHD also develop unhealthy coping strategies that include using alcohol or drugs to disguise their issues.
The scales of rating used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behaviors, which may result in a misdiagnosis of females or girls. The symptoms may not be recognized as connected to ADHD and may be internalized, resulting into feelings of shame and low self-esteem.
For teens and adults with ADHD, a diet high in vegetables, fruits whole grains, healthy fats and protein can boost your mood and focus. Regular exercise can improve focus and concentration and release feel-good neurotransmitters that reduce stress, anxiety and depression among those suffering from the disorder. A registered dietitian can help you create a plan for your specific needs.
Anxiety
Anxiety is an everyday human emotion, however, if it becomes out of hand and affects your daily life you could be suffering from an anxiety disorder. The symptoms include anxiety, discontent, and excessive fright in benign or regular situations. They can be present even when there is no reason to worry, and result in physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches or a fast heartbeat. Anxiety disorders affect more women than men and can impact relationships and work.
The gender of your partner can play an impact on how your ADHD and anxiety are handled. Many women with both ADHD and anxiety suffer from mood swings that may be misinterpreted by others as being "overly emotional." This can cause social problems, such as broken relationships or job opportunities that are not fulfilling. Mood swings can also make it harder to sleep enough and can make your anxiety symptoms worse.
The symptoms of anxiety and ADHD can be more apparent at certain times of your life based on your age, gender, and hormone levels. If you're an adult woman suffering from ADHD your symptoms may fluctuate during the month, or during pregnancy and menopause, due to hormonal changes. ADHD symptoms may also be more evident during menstrual cycles, or during times of stress like an breakup, job loss, or major life events.
To help reduce the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, try to fall asleep at the same time every night and establish a time when you wake up. Try listening to calming music or meditation before you go to bed, and limit screen time to improve your sleep quality. A healthy diet can help reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms, so consider eliminating foods that trigger allergies or sensitivities. Make sure you eat plenty of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and moderate amounts of carbohydrates. Exercise can also help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD. Try to exercise 30 minutes per day or use a light box to increase your exposure to sunlight.