ADHD in Women Adults
Women with ADHD face many difficulties. They might find it difficult to handle everyday tasks, manage relationship issues and meet social expectations. They might also have difficulty staying focused at work or forgetting appointments.
A recent study looked at the experiences of women who were diagnosed with ADHD as adults. The study found that, while the diagnosis was a relief and helped to make sense of previous struggles, it was also bittersweet.
Making a diagnosis
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult may feel like the most important step towards understanding and managing your symptoms. It can help you identify your problems and understand that they are something that you can manage and not cause you feel "weird."
Women are more adept at concealing their symptoms, so it is more difficult for them to recognize themselves with ADHD. They might be adept at conceal their inattention by working late or using devices like planners and smartphones to track daily tasks. They might also be able to hide their impulsivity when they act quickly to get ahead on projects or make comments in conversations without thinking.
It's important to speak to a mental health professional who has worked with adults to determine a diagnosis. A friendly network of family and friends can also be helpful in getting through the process. A health care provider or mental health professional may use standardized behavior rating scales or ADHD symptoms checklists to evaluate the symptoms of an adult and determine if they meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. A physical exam and medical history are usually part of a diagnostic assessment for adults. Psychological tests may be carried out to examine working memory and executive functioning (abilities such as planning and decision-making) spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Untreated ADHD can lead to a range of challenges in the lives of women. Some of these are career-related problems, such as difficulty staying on track, following corporate policies, or completing deadlines, and can contribute to feelings of low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Additionally, women who have ADHD can be more likely to suffer from comorbid disorders like depression and anxiety.
Many adults who are not diagnosed with ADHD regret the years of struggle they endured without knowing the reason. They might have struggled with their relationships, at work, or under financial stress. Matlen states that when someone is diagnosed they usually have to do some grief work and accept the reality of what went wrong in their past. But, she adds that once the diagnosis is in hand and they are able to move on with a new outlook on a better future.
Treatment Options
The positive side is that women can receive a diagnosis and receive treatment for ADHD. They can also receive the support they need to manage their symptoms in school, at work, and at home.
The most important thing is to identify the signs that are present, such as difficulty organizing and managing time and work forgetfulness; difficulty adhering to the rules or procedures; difficulty getting along with colleagues and classmates, or teachers and the tendency to be impulsive. These issues can cause serious problems with school and work performance, relationships, and self-esteem.
Certain experts say that the diagnosis of ADHD for women and girls is under-reported because they are better at masking their symptoms than boys or men. They are also less likely to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive or mixed subtypes of the disorder. These symptoms are more evident in boys and men. This makes them more likely to be diagnosed.
Therapy or counseling can help people with ADHD manage their disorder in addition to behavioral strategies. These therapies can help with many symptoms, including anxiety and depression. Some types of therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help you understand how to change negative thought patterns that can cause problems in your daily life.
Other treatments like yoga, mediation and regular exercise can boost your brain's function by helping you relax and focus on your thoughts. They can also help you manage mood disorders and increase your energy levels. Getting enough sleep and eating healthy food can improve your symptoms.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may benefit from asking co-workers or teachers to make accommodations. They may ask for more in-depth explanations or extra time for assignments.
ADHD can be treated with medication. The use of stimulant medications is typically the first option for treatment, however, nonstimulant medications may also be used.
Some adults suffering from ADHD are able to manage their symptoms through changes in their lifestyle, rest and technology, such as ADHD-assistant 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. This is a research study that focuses on new methods of treating or preventing illnesses.
Support Groups
Women can feel isolated when trying to deal with the complexities of ADHD. Support groups can help. Certain organizations have forums where people can share their experiences online. Some of these groups may not be moderated by mental health professionals, but they could provide a safe and secure space to share frustrations and brainstorm with others. Some of these groups provide resources and tips for dealing with ADHD.
According to a study females who exhibit symptoms that manifest as inattentive behavior are less likely to be recognized and referred for evaluation than males who show the same symptoms. This means that they are more likely to go undiagnosed and experience impairment. Many women have also learned to cover up symptoms using strategies such as reminders on their phones and routines to conform to social expectations. These strategies can also backfire, creating more anxiety and stress.
It is crucial for women to find a doctor who understands how gender and ADHD interact. A seasoned psychotherapist can assist women in recognizing the ways they could be attempting to hide their symptoms and internalizing their struggles. This will help them identify their strengths and boost their self-efficacy.
A diagnosis of ADHD may have a positive impact on the way women view themselves. A number of women interviewed in the study said that they felt relieved after receiving the diagnosis. They could then accept their own challenges and become more confident in their abilities. Knowing they were not alone also helped them accept the mistakes they made in the past and make positive changes in their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the course of an individual's life. The symptoms can impact their relationships as well as their careers and day-to-day activities. They might underestimate the time required to complete a task or forget to make appointments. They might struggle to concentrate at work or in school and may have difficulty managing their finances. Some of these women have difficulty maintaining a relationship or marriage and others are suffering from low self-esteem.
Medication
Women who have not been diagnosed with ADHD might struggle with the day-to-day life. They may struggle with finances, keeping their home clean, or maintaining healthy relationships with their partners. The symptoms can also impact the academic and work performance. The longer ADHD goes untreated, the more it can affect a woman's self-esteem as well as her ability to feel successful in her professional and personal lives.
Many women with ADHD are not diagnosed because their symptoms are less active or impulsive, and less attentive. This is due to outdated diagnostic criteria, assumptions, and a lack awareness that female ADHD symptoms can be different from those of men and boys. It is also important to note that some people, especially girls, will have co-occurring psychiatric disorders like anxiety and depression or other physical illnesses such as sleep disorders, tics and fibromyalgia. These conditions can trigger similar symptoms as those of ADHD.
Diagnosed and treated for ADHD as an adult is a powerful experience that can enhance the quality of life for women. It will also help to restore her self-esteem as she comes to recognize that the challenges she faces aren't her fault.
add test for women of stimulants is usually the first choice for adults with ADHD. However, for certain adults, stimulants may not be the right option. If you are unable to tolerate stimulants, there are other drugs like antidepressants or atomoxetine. It is important to disclose any other medications or supplements you are taking to your doctor, as certain medications interact with other drugs.
A therapist or healthcare provider can help you develop strategies for managing your behavior to increase your productivity and improve organization, as well manage symptoms. They can also assist you in addressing any emotional issues which may be causing the symptoms of ADHD. Certain people with ADHD benefit from working with a life or career coach. They can show them how to handle their daily tasks as well as set goals and reach them.
Although it is true that women and adolescent girls are more underdiagnosed than their male counterparts, there are now more efforts to better understand and address the differences between diagnosis and treatment. This includes making sure that all children are screened for ADHD and that girls and women with the disorder are accurately diagnosed.