ADHD Symptoms in Women Test Positive
You frequently forget things, lose them, or lose focus during daily activities. Your memory issues can cause problems with your school and work performance.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms have to be present before the age of 12and that lasted at least six months and affected your daily life. The test will ask questions about a variety of symptoms related to inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
Attention-deficit Signs and symptoms
Women who aren't attentive ADHD frequently have trouble staying organized and remembering specifics. They might forget appointments or information they've been told. They may also find it hard to concentrate during college lectures or business meetings. They may also have trouble keeping their household chores in order or paying bills.
Unlike hyperactive/impulsive-type ADHD, inattentive symptoms aren't as noticeable and can make it harder for girls and women to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Additionally the stigma associated with having ADHD can cause people to believe that women don't suffer from the same symptoms like men and boys, and therefore shouldn't be diagnosed or treated. This can make it harder for health professionals and educators to recognize and diagnose girls and women with ADHD.
adhd in women are also more difficult for people to see in women and girls since they are often internalized. For example, many women with inattentive ADHD struggle to maintain good work and personal relationships because their impulsivity, forgetfulness, and trouble focusing are often misinterpreted as being disorganized or disengaged. They may try to compensate by overworking using productivity apps, or becoming more in control of their relationships.
The hormonal fluctuations that happen throughout the life of a woman can also affect their ADHD symptoms. The most significant changes occur in the luteal phase, during breastfeeding, pregnancy, and in the years prior to menopausal which is when estrogen levels decrease. Researchers are working to determine how these hormonal changes may influence ADHD symptoms and the medications used to treat it.
It is crucial to recognize that gender refers a person’s biology, including their chromosomal make-up, hormones, and anatomy, while the term "sex" refers to a person's internal view of themselves as a man, woman, or nonbinary irrespective of their external anatomy. Verywell Health acknowledges that sex is a complicated issue and that some individuals may consider themselves not male or female or as an intersex person. Verywell Health doesn't define the sex of its readers. For more details, see the Verywell Health sex and age FAQ.
Hyperactive Symptoms
In general, women with ADHD do not have as many hyperactive symptoms as men do. As a result, it can be more difficult for them to be diagnosed and treated. But that does not mean that ADHD isn't present in females. In fact, it is actually the reverse The number of ADHD diagnoses in women has increased from 2020.
In the early years the likelihood for boys is higher to receive an ADHD diagnosis than girls. But as they grow older, the numbers are even. However, it can still be more difficult for adults with ADHD to identify their condition because the symptoms often change over time and could be confused with other disorders.
For instance, some people with ADHD have trouble sleeping at the night. The difficulty can be exacerbated by factors like stress, hormone fluctuations or medication used to treat other ailments. A heavy meal or alcohol consumption prior to bedtime can make it worse. It is crucial to understand that getting a good night's sleep is a crucial aspect of coping with ADHD as an adult. Healthy sleep habits such as using a blanket that is weighted and establishing a schedule can be helpful.
Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to experience emotional issues, since they are more susceptible to mood swings. This can lead to them being misunderstood or dismissed by others, and can result in relationship problems. They are also more susceptible to conditions such as depression that can make focusing and retaining information difficult.
It is vital to speak to a medical expert to find out more about ADHD. This includes a complete assessment and diagnosis. There are three subtypes of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and mixed. To be able to be diagnosed, one must have at least six symptoms of each category for a minimum period of six months. Inattentive ADHD is typically internalized, like daydreaming and being easily distracted. Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms are more visible and include fidgeting, squirming in a chair or running around in situations where remaining seated is expected. Mixed ADHD is the most common and can cause both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.
The symptoms of an impulse
Women with hyperactive ADHD struggle in social situations. They can be extremely talkative, go off on tangents during conversations, and can't discern body language or social cues. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions. This can make them more likely to be prone to anger or rage. This makes it difficult to be able to coexist with other people and work in a team setting. Women who suffer from an impulsive ADHD are more likely to have a sexual urge earlier in life, which may lead them to unwanted pregnancies or STIs.
Mood swings are common in women with ADHD, and many find that their symptoms are more severe during certain times of the month or important life events like divorce or the loss of a loved one. Women with an impulsive ADHD are often misunderstood and dismissed because of gender stereotypes or other factors.
Additionally, since women are more adept at concealing their ADHD symptoms than males are, it can be harder for them to receive an assessment or treatment. Some experts believe this is due to the fact that females develop coping mechanisms and strategies which help them conceal their ADHD. This could include changing their schedule or setting phone reminders for appointments, using self-care or medication techniques to control their symptoms, or changing their behavior to suit their social expectations.
Women who suffer from ADHD may have trouble sleeping well, which can affect their attention and impulsivity. To enhance your quality of sleep, try to stick to a routine for bedtime that includes calming activities before you go to bed, and avoid a screen before you go to bed. Incorporating exercise into your routine may be beneficial, as it releases neurotransmitters that boost your mood and improve focus.
If you think you might be suffering from ADHD, it's important to consult an expert in mental health to get an assessment. This is the only way to know for sure if you have ADHD, and the severity of your symptoms. Find a Therapist will be able to assist you if you're willing to move forward.
Social Symptoms
Women with ADHD are often unable to deal with their issues in social situations. They may feel that others are less tolerant of them since they don't seem to pay attention, listen or follow through with things. This can lead to miscommunications and frustrations in relationships both professional and personal.
Women may also find it difficult to receive an accurate diagnosis of ADHD due to the fact that they tend to conceal their symptoms. This is in order to conform to norms and expectations, and to handle everyday tasks. This could include healthy coping strategies, like using a planner or setting reminders on their phones however, it could also involve unhealthy coping habits, such as excessive fidgeting, avoiding meals and working longer hours to compensate.
ADHD symptoms can be difficult to detect in adult women, as they may be misinterpreted with other conditions such as anxiety or depression. Anxiety and ADHD share some common symptoms, such as trouble concentrating, feeling agitated or having difficulty sleeping. The lack of organization, forgetfulness and the impulsivity that is typical of ADHD are not associated in people suffering from anxiety.
The impulsivity and hyperactivity of ADHD can be confused with mood disorders, especially in adults. Women who have a history of bipolar disorder, depression or other mood disorders could be more likely to develop ADHD. It's important to consult a trusted medical professional look into your symptoms and come up with an accurate diagnosis.
Adult women suffering from ADHD can improve their quality of life by learning how to cope and seeking treatment. They might benefit from counseling with a therapist to learn the skills of emotional regulation, or coaching from a professional who can teach them strategies to manage their behavior and assist them in setting goals. They may also be prescribed medication to manage their ADHD symptoms however only with a doctor's recommendation. The use of stimulant drugs is more frequently prescribed for those suffering from ADHD however, non-stimulant alternatives are just as effective in some cases.