ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who are born female disguise their symptoms of ADHD. This can make it more difficult to be diagnosed.
For ADHD to be diagnosed, symptoms must have been present from childhood. This is technically before the age of 12 years old. Doctors can interview close family and friends.
Take this test to find out the way your symptoms compare to those of a woman with ADHD. This test doesn't diagnose anything however it will help your healthcare provider get a better understanding of your requirements.
Symptoms
Many people view ADHD as an illness that affects children, however it can also manifest in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe the inattentive form of ADHD is more common in women. inattentive add in women is less evident than the other two. It typically manifests as a result of internal issues, such as 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, as well as inadequate time management skills. They may also have difficulties keeping track of their bills or appointments, or even complete household chores. Women may compensate by working harder or becoming more organized. This could lead to frustration. Women may resort to unhealthy coping strategies, such as drug or alcohol use.
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 symptoms and refer you when you require an expert. Your doctor will need to know your medical history, family history and any other mental health issues you may have that may be causing the symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists five ongoing symptoms that meet the criteria for 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.
Your symptoms have to have been present for at least six months to be diagnosed with either type of ADHD. The symptoms must also be impacting your life negatively and impacting your ability to function.
You can reduce your symptoms by eating an exercise and diet plan that is healthy and regularly. You can also cut down on your intake of processed and sugary food items. You can also practice mindfulness meditation to help calm your mind and help you control impulsiveness, distractibility and promote restful sleeping. You can also speak with your doctor about taking medication to treat the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is a crucial step in managing symptoms and living the life you desire. However, it's not something you're able do on your own. A mental health professional is required to examine your symptoms and conduct an extensive physical examination. A medical professional will look over your medical history to rule out any other medical conditions that could mimic ADHD.
Many people suffering from ADHD are treated immediately after being diagnosed. There are two kinds of drugs to treat the disorder: stimulants or non-stimulants. The stimulants are the most popular because they are quicker acting and have a more lasting effect than non-stimulants. Your therapist or psychiatrist will prescribe the right medication based on your needs. It is best to discuss your options with them to ensure they can make the best decision about your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more prevalent in boys and men, cisgender females can also be affected by its symptoms. Due to the gender-based bias and the fact that a lot of doctors aren't aware of how ADHD can affect women, it can be more difficult for women to receive a proper diagnosis as adults.
This online assessment was created by keeping the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based upon the DSM-5 criteria, but is broken down to illustrate how these symptoms manifest for women. It cannot diagnose you however, you can use it as a starting point for discussions with a doctor or therapist about your issues.
Bring all of your symptoms to the evaluator, along with any relevant documents like performance evaluations at work or copies of your previous test results. The evaluator will review them to determine if they are in line with the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator will also ask questions about your lifestyle and habits to help determine the severity of your symptoms.
For instance, the evaluator will need to know the length of time your ADHD symptoms have been present and how they've affected with your daily routine. They will also go over your medical history and perform tests to rule out any conditions that could cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
There are a variety of treatment options for adults with ADHD. The most commonly used treatment is medication. They can reduce symptoms and control brain activity, but they must be prescribed and taken under the supervision of a health professional. In the majority of instances, stimulant medication is the first option. However, non-stimulant drugs may be used in certain cases. In addition to treating ADHD your doctor may suggest additional neuropsychological or psychological tests to assess the impact of co-existing conditions such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD symptoms can hinder the development of relationships and personal growth. Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty interpreting social cues or understanding body language. This can lead to inadequate communication. This can cause issues at home and at work. Women who suffer from ADHD are also at higher risk of developing mood disorders including depression and anxiety. In fact, it is believed that 60% of those with ADHD suffer from symptoms that last throughout their lives and women are less likely to overcome their condition than men.
The most crucial step in finding a diagnosis and treating ADHD is recognition. For many adults who suffer from ADHD, their ADHD symptoms become more manageable as they age. It is challenging for them to receive the help and support they need. The good news is that the current research on ADHD is geared toward understanding its impacts in women, and improvements in treatment and diagnosis are being made.
In addition to medications as well, many women suffering from ADHD benefit from a range of lifestyle modifications and strategies for treating. Some women who suffer from ADHD benefit from working closely with an ADHD coach who can assist them to create organizational strategies and structures to boost their productivity and life. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches women to accept their feelings and thoughts and replace negative thought patterns with healthier ones. Family therapy and counseling for marriage can also be beneficial for certain women. They are able to communicate more effectively with their partners and resolve conflicts. Healthy sleep habits can aid in managing symptoms of ADHD such as difficulties getting up and falling asleep. This means a regular bedtime routine, listening to soothing to music or listening to an audiobook and avoiding electronics before the bed.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women isn't well-diagnosed, there are many resources and a large community of people willing to help you. Consult your primary doctor for recommendations, or contact your insurance company to find an ADHD specialist near you. Also, it's recommended to search for an ADHD support group in your area. These groups can help you find health care experts who are skilled in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults and offer a welcoming environment.
Because women and girls often experience different symptoms of ADHD than boys and men it can be difficult for doctors to recognize. Some doctors may not be aware of or undervalue the differences between them, leading to inaccurate diagnoses and ineffective treatment strategies. This is especially relevant to impulsive hyperactive and inattentive ADHD symptoms.
You can take an online test for female ADHD if you suspect you may have the disorder. This free test is built on DSM 5 criteria and was developed with the real experiences of ADHD women in mind. It is not an assessment test for diagnosing ADHD and should be followed up with an expert consultation. Be aware that the article makes use of "male" and "female" as terms to refer to gender. However we are committed to using sex identities that reflect a person’s affirmed gender.