ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) who suffer from ADHD often hide their symptoms. This can make it difficult to receive an assessment.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must have been present since childhood, technically prior to the age of 12. Doctors can interview close family and friends.
This test will allow you to assess your symptoms against those of women who suffer from ADHD. This test doesn't diagnose anything however it will give your healthcare professional a better understanding of your requirements.
Signs and symptoms
Many people think of ADHD as an illness that affects children, however it can also occur in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive form of ADHD is more prevalent in women than men. The symptoms of this type are less obvious than those of the other two and usually manifest as internal symptoms like difficulty in staying focused or frequent daydreaming.
Women with inattention ADHD can experience lack of focus as well as poor time management and trouble paying attention at work or in class. They may also have trouble keeping track of their bills and appointments, as well as doing household chores. Women can compensate by working harder or being more organized. This could backfire and lead to frustration. Some women resort unhealthy ways of coping, such as drug or alcohol use.
It is recommended to speak with your doctor or a mental health professional if you think you might have ADHD. They can help you identify your symptoms and recommend you to a specialist if necessary. Your doctor will ask about your family history, your medical history, and any mental health issues that could cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five ongoing symptoms to meet the requirements 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.
Your symptoms must have been present for at least six months to be diagnosed with either type of ADHD. The symptoms are also negative to your life and affecting your ability to function.
You can decrease the severity of your symptoms by eating healthy, exercising regularly, and reduce your intake of sugary or processed foods. You can also utilize mindfulness meditation to calm your mind and help manage impulsivity, distraction and promote restful sleep. You could also discuss with your doctor the possibility of taking medication to treat ADHD symptoms.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD is a crucial step towards managing your symptoms and living the life you desire. However it's not something you can do on your own. A mental health professional will need to examine your symptoms and perform an extensive physical exam. A medical doctor will review your history in order to determine if there are any other conditions that may be a cause of ADHD.
In most cases, people who are diagnosed with ADHD get treatment right away. There are two main drugs for the disorder: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are more well-known because they are faster acting and have a more lasting effect than non stimulants. The kind of medication that your psychiatrist or therapist prescribes for you will be based on your specific needs. It is important to discuss all your options with them so that they can make an informed choice about your symptoms.
While ADHD is more common in boys and men but cisgender women may suffer from the same issues. Unfortunately, because of the gender bias and the fact that a lot of doctors aren't aware of how ADHD can affect women, it is more difficult for them to receive a correct diagnosis as adults.
This assessment was designed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on DSM-5 criteria however, it is divided into women's symptoms. It cannot diagnose you however you can use it as a starting point to start discussions with a medical professional or therapist about your issues.
Bring all of your symptoms to the evaluator with any relevant documents such as performance evaluations at work or copies of your previous test results. add adult women reviews the records to determine if they satisfy the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator will also ask questions about your life and habits to determine the severity of your symptoms.
For example, the evaluator will need to know the length of time your ADHD symptoms have been present and how they've interfered with your daily life. They'll also look over your medical history and run a few tests to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid problems.
Treatment
Managing ADHD in adulthood can be challenging however, treatment options are available. The most popular treatment is medication. They can reduce symptoms and control brain activity, but they must be prescribed and administered under the supervision of a health professional. Stimulant medication is usually the first choice, but non-stimulants are also a possibility in certain situations. In addition to treating ADHD your doctor might recommend additional neuropsychological or psychological tests to assess the impact of co-existing conditions like anxiety or depression.
ADHD symptoms can interfere with the development of relationships and personal growth. Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty interpreting social cues and interpreting body language. This can result in poor communication. This can cause issues at home and at work. Women who suffer from ADHD are also at a higher risk of developing mood disorders, including anxiety and depression. In fact, it is thought that 60% of those who suffer from ADHD have symptoms that persist into adulthood, and women are less likely to recover from their condition than men.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step towards obtaining a proper diagnosis and treatment. For a lot of adults who suffer from ADHD, their ADHD symptoms become more manageable as they age. It can be difficult for them to get the assistance and support they require. The good news is that current research on ADHD is geared towards understanding its effects on women, and advances in treatment and diagnosis are being made.
Many women with ADHD can benefit from lifestyle changes and therapeutic approaches in addition to medication. For example certain women benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can teach them organizational strategies and develop structures to enhance their lives and productivity. Other treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings, while changing negative thought patterns to healthier ones. Marital counseling and family therapy can also be beneficial for some women. They are able to communicate more effectively with their partners and work out conflicts. A healthy sleep routine can aid in managing symptoms of ADHD like difficulty sleeping and staying awake. This means an established routine for bedtime and listening to soothing audiobooks or music, and avoiding electronics or screen time just before sleep.
Support
There are a variety of options available, as well as a community of people who will support you, despite the fact that ADHD is not diagnosed in women. If you're unsure what to do, ask your primary physician for recommendations or phone your insurance company for an ADHD specialist in your region. It's also an excellent idea to find an ADHD support group near you. These groups can assist you in finding health professionals who are experienced with diagnosing and treating ADHD for adults and provide a safe and supportive environment.
Because girls and women typically experience different symptoms of ADHD than boys and men it can be difficult for doctors to recognize. Some doctors might not be aware of the differences between them and make inaccurate diagnoses or use poor treatment strategies. This is especially applicable to the impulsive, hyperactive, and inattentive symptoms of ADHD.
You can take an online test for female ADHD in case you suspect that you may have the disorder. This free test is based on DSM 5 criteria and was designed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed up with an expert consultation. Please note that the article makes use of "male" and 'female" as terms to refer to gender. However we believe in using sex identities that reflect the person's gender-affirming.