ADHD in Women Adults
Women with ADHD have many challenges. They may have difficulty to cope with everyday tasks, deal with relationship issues and meet social expectations. They may also have difficulty staying focused at work and may forget appointments.
A recent study looked into the experiences of women diagnosed with ADHD as adults. It revealed that while the diagnosis brought relief and helped make sense of the past but it was also often bittersweet.
Diagnosis
It could be the first step towards understanding and managing symptoms once you are diagnosed with ADHD. It can aid in putting a face to the issues you struggle with and consider them as something that can be treated, not something that makes you "weird."
Women have a difficult to diagnose themselves with ADHD because they are better at concealing their symptoms. They may resort to conceal their inattention by working late or using devices like planners and phones to keep track of daily tasks. They might also be able to conceal their impulsivity by acting quickly to get ahead in the workplace or uttering a few words during conversations without thinking.
For a diagnosis it's essential to speak with an expert in mental health who has experience with adults. It's also helpful to have a support network of friends and family members to assist you in navigating the process. A mental health professional or health care provider might use standardized behavior ratings scales or ADHD symptoms checklists to evaluate adult symptoms and determine if they meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis. A physical exam and medical history are usually part of an adult diagnostic examination. Psychological tests can be used to determine executive function, working memory (abilities such as planning and decision making), visual and spatial abilities (related to spatiality) as well as reasoning and reasoning abilities.
If not treated, ADHD can lead to a variety of problems for women. Some of them are related to careers problems, such as difficulty keeping a job, following corporate guidelines, or meeting deadlines, and may lead to feelings of low self-esteem or confidence. Additionally women with ADHD can be more likely to be suffering from comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
Many people who go undiagnosed for ADHD as adults regret the time they struggled and not being able to pinpoint the reason. They might have struggled with their relationships, at work or facing financial stress. Matlen states that when someone is diagnosed, they often have to work through their grief and accept what happened in their past. However, she says that once the diagnosis is in hand it is possible to move forward with renewed hope for a better future.
Treatment Options
The good news is that women can be given a diagnosis and receive treatment for ADHD. They can also receive the help they require to manage their symptoms at home, work and school.
It is important to be aware of the signs. These could include the inability to manage and organize time and tasks, forgetfulness difficulties in following guidelines or rules, difficulties getting along with classmates, colleagues or teachers, as well as impulsive behaviour. These issues can lead to serious problems with school and work performance, self-esteem, and relationships.
Some experts believe that the diagnosis of ADHD for women and girls is under-reported due to the fact that they are more adept at concealing their symptoms than men or boys. They are also less likely to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive or mixed subtypes of the disorder. These symptoms are more apparent in males and females. This makes them more likely to be diagnosed.
In addition to behavioral strategies, a lot of people with ADHD find that therapy or counseling can help to manage their condition. These therapies can aid in managing many symptoms, including anxiety and depression. Certain kinds of therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach you specific skills to overcome negative patterns of thinking which can lead to issues in your life.
Other therapies such as meditation, yoga, and regular exercise can help improve your brain's function by helping to calm down and concentrate on your thoughts. They can also boost your energy and help you combat mood disorders. A good night's sleep and a balanced diet can also improve your symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from asking their co-workers or supervisors to provide accommodations. They can ask for extra time or more specific explanations.
ADHD can be treated with medication. The use of stimulant medications is typically the first line of treatment, however, nonstimulant medications can also be utilized.
Some adults with ADHD are able to manage their symptoms by making changes in their lifestyle, rest and technology like ADHD-assisting apps for smartphones. They should also visit their doctor regularly and take any prescribed medication. They may also be eligible to take part in a study known as a clinical trial. It is a research study which explores new ways of treating or preventing illnesses.
Support Groups
Women can feel isolated when trying to deal with the complexity of ADHD. Support groups can help. There are forums that individuals can meet online and share their experiences. Some of these groups might not be supervised by mental health experts, but they do offer a safe place to vent frustrations and discuss ideas with others. Some of these groups provide guidelines and resources for dealing with ADHD.
According to a study, women who exhibit symptoms that are primarily inattentive behaviors are less likely be identified and referred to an evaluation than men who display similar symptoms. As a result, they are more likely to remain undiagnosed and suffer impairment. In addition many women have learned to cover up their symptoms by using strategies such as phone reminders and daily schedules, to meet societal expectations. These strategies can also backfire, creating more stress and anxiety.
It is crucial for women to locate a doctor who understands how gender and ADHD interact. A seasoned counselor can help women identify the ways they may be masking their symptoms and internalizing their difficulties. This can help them recognize their strengths and improve their self-efficacy.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD can positively impact how women view themselves. Several of the women interviewed in the study reported they felt relieved after receiving the diagnosis. They could then accept their own challenges and feel more confident in their capabilities. Knowing that they weren't alone helped them accept the mistakes they made in the past and make positive changes in their lives.
For many adults, being diagnosed of ADHD is life-changing. The symptoms can impact their relationships, careers and everyday activities. They may underestimate the amount of time it will take to complete a task or forget to make appointments. They may struggle to concentrate at school or work or at work, and they might have problems managing their finances. Many of these women have a hard time maintaining a relationship or marriage and others are suffering from low self-esteem.
Medication
Women who aren't diagnosed with ADHD have difficulty navigating everyday life. They may have trouble managing their financial issues, keeping their homes clean, or maintaining healthy relationships with their partners. The symptoms can also affect the academic and work performance. The longer ADHD is not treated and untreated, the more it could impact a woman's self-esteem and confidence to be successful in both her professional and personal lives.
Many women with ADHD are not diagnosed because their symptoms are less active or impulsive, and are more inactive. This is due to outdated diagnostic criteria, assumptions and a lack awareness that female ADHD symptoms can be different from those seen in men and boys. It is also important to remember that certain people, especially girls, may have co-occurring psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression or other physical ailments like sleep disorders, tics, and fibromyalgia. These may cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD.
Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD in adulthood is an experience of empowerment that can drastically improve a woman's quality of life. It can also help restore confidence in herself as she comes to realize that the issues she is facing aren't their own fault.
The use of stimulants is usually the first choice for adults suffering from ADHD. However, for certain adults, stimulants may not be the best option. Non-stimulant drugs, like atomoxetine or antidepressants, are available for people who can't tolerate stimulants. It is crucial to report any other supplements or medications you take to your doctor, as certain medications interact with others.
A therapist or healthcare professional can provide you with strategies to improve productivity and organization, as well manage symptoms. They can also work with you to deal with any emotional issues that might be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. Some people with ADHD have the benefit of working with a life coach or career coach, because they can help them develop skills to manage daily tasks as well as setting and meeting goals.
There are increasing efforts being made to better understand the differences in diagnosis, treatment and gender. This includes ensuring that all children are given an assessment for ADHD and that women and girls who suffer from the disorder are properly diagnosed.