ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who are born female can mask their symptoms of ADHD. This can make it harder to get a diagnosis.
To be eligible for ADHD to be recognized the symptoms must have been present since childhood. This is technically before the age of 12 years old. Doctors may conduct interviews with close friends and family members.
Use this quiz to see how your symptoms compare to those of a woman with ADHD. It's not a diagnostic tool however it will help your healthcare professional understand your needs better.
Signs and symptoms
Many people view ADHD as an illness 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 the inattentive form of ADHD is more frequent in women. 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 a tendency to daydream.
Women with inattention ADHD are prone to forgetfulness, poor time management, and trouble paying attention in classes. They may also have difficulties keeping track of bills and appointments or completing household chores. Women may compensate by working harder or becoming more organized. This could lead to frustration. Some women resort to unhealthy ways of coping, such as drug and alcohol use.
You should speak to your doctor or mental health professional if you suspect you may have ADHD. They can help you identify symptoms and refer you when you require a specialist. 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 symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five continuous symptoms that satisfy 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.
You must have been experiencing symptoms for at minimum six consecutive months before you are diagnosed with ADHD. They must also have a negative impact on your life and interfere with how well you perform.
You can reduce the severity of your symptoms by eating a balanced diet by exercising regularly and reducing your intake of processed or sugary foods. You can also use mindfulness meditation to calm your mind and help you manage impulsivity, distraction and promote a restful night's sleep. You can also discuss with your doctor about the possibility of taking medication to treat ADHD symptoms.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD is an important step in managing symptoms and having the life you want. It's not possible to manage it on your own. A mental health professional is required to assess your symptoms, and conduct an extensive physical exam. A medical professional will also examine your medical past medical history to rule out any other problems that can mimic ADHD.
Many people suffering from ADHD are treated immediately after being diagnosed. There are two main drugs for the disorder which are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed because they are more effective and have a longer-lasting impact than non-stimulants. Your psychiatrist or therapist will prescribe an appropriate medication based on your needs. It is recommended to discuss all options with them to make an informed decision regarding your symptoms.
Although ADHD is more common in boys and men, cisgender women can suffer from the same symptoms. However, due to the gender discrimination and the fact that a lot of doctors aren't aware of how ADHD can affect women, it's more difficult for them to receive a correct diagnosis as adults.
This assessment was designed with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is based off the DSM-5 criteria however, it is broken down into symptoms for women. It's not a way to diagnose you, however, you can use it as a starting point to start discussions with a doctor or therapist regarding your symptoms.
Bring all of your symptoms to the evaluator, along with any relevant documents like workplace performance evaluations or copies of previous test results. The evaluator will examine the records to determine whether your symptoms match the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluation will also ask you questions about your life and routines to determine the severity of your symptoms.
The examiner may be interested in knowing for instance how long you've been suffering from ADHD symptoms and how they've affected your life. They'll also examine your medical history and conduct several tests to rule out any other ailments that could cause similar symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues.
Treatment
There are a variety of treatments for adults suffering from ADHD. The most common treatment is medication. They can help regulate brain activity and ease symptoms however they require prescription from a healthcare professional and taken under their supervision. Stimulant medications are usually the first choice, but non-stimulants are also a possibility in certain situations. In addition to treating ADHD your doctor might recommend additional psychological or neuropsychological testing to examine the impact of co-existing conditions such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD symptoms can hinder the development of relationships and personal growth. Women who suffer from ADHD might have trouble reading social cues and interpreting body language. This can result in inadequate communication. This can lead to difficulties at work or at home. www.iampsychiatry.uk who suffer from ADHD also are more likely to develop mood disorders like anxiety and depression. In fact, it's believed that 60% of those with ADHD have symptoms that persist into adulthood and women are less likely to recover from their condition than males.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step to getting a proper diagnosis and treatment. As adults age, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. However, it is still difficult for them to receive the assistance and support they need. The good news is that the current research on ADHD is geared toward understanding the effects it has on women, and advances in diagnosis and treatment are being developed.
In addition to medications, many women with ADHD benefit from a range of lifestyle changes and therapeutic strategies. Women who suffer from ADHD benefit by working closely with an ADHD coach who can assist them develop organizational strategies and create structures to improve their productivity and life. Other treatment options include cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches them to accept their thoughts and feelings, while changing negative thought patterns to healthier ones. Some women may also benefit from family therapy or counseling for marital issues. They can learn to communicate more effectively with their partners and settle conflicts. Healthy sleeping habits can help manage symptoms of ADHD such as difficulties sleeping and staying awake. This can be accomplished by having a regular sleep routine, listening to relaxing music or reading an audiobook, and avoiding electronic devices before bed.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women is underdiagnosed, there are many resources and a whole community of people who are willing to support you. Consult your primary doctor for recommendations, or contact your insurance company to locate an ADHD specialist near you. It's also a good idea for you to join an ADHD support group in your area. Many of these groups can assist you in finding health experts who are skilled in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults and offer a welcoming environment.
Doctors may be unable to diagnose girls and women suffering from ADHD as they usually present with different symptoms than boys and men. Certain doctors may be misinformed or underestimate the difference, resulting in inaccurate diagnoses and poor treatment strategies. This is especially relevant to hyperactive and impulsive ADHD symptoms.
If you suspect that you be suffering from ADHD, you can take an online female ADHD test online. This free screening tool was created with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is built on DSM 5 and is a screening tool based on DSM 5 Criteria. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed up with an expert consultation. It is important to note that the article makes use of "male" and "female" as terms that refer to gender. However, we are committed to using sex identities that reflect the person's affirmation of gender.