ADHD in Women Adults
Women suffering from ADHD face many difficulties. They may find it difficult to handle everyday tasks, manage problems with relationships and meet social expectations. They may also have trouble staying focused at work or forgetting appointments.
A recent study looked into the experiences of women diagnosed with ADHD as adults. It found that while diagnosis provided a relief and helped to make sense of the past, it was often bitter-sweet.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult might feel like the most important step towards understanding and managing your symptoms. It can help you to give a name to the issues you struggle with and consider them as something that can be treated, not something that makes you feel "weird."
Women are more adept at concealing their symptoms, and it can be harder for them to diagnose themselves as having ADHD. They may resort to disguising inattentiveness by working late or using tools like planners and smartphones to keep track of their daily tasks. Or, they may be able to hide their impulsivity if they act quickly to advance a project or make comments in conversations without thinking.
It's important to speak to a mental healthcare professional who has experience working with adults in order to establish a diagnosis. It's also helpful to have a support network of friends and family members to assist you in navigating the process. A mental health specialist or health care professional may use standardized behavior ratings scales or ADHD symptoms checklists to examine adult symptoms and determine if they satisfy the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis. A physical exam and medical history are also typically part of a diagnostic assessment for adults. Psychological tests can be used to assess working memory, executive functioning (abilities such as making decisions and planning) spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Untreated ADHD can lead to a range of problems for women. Certain of these are related to work problems, such as difficulty maintaining a job, adhering to corporate guidelines, or meeting deadlines, and can contribute to feelings of low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Additionally women with ADHD are more likely to suffer from comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
Many people who are not diagnosed for ADHD as adults regret the time they spent struggling and not being able to pinpoint the reason. They may have had difficulty with relationships or at work, or be enduring the burden of financial stress. Matlen says that people are often forced to acknowledge their past and do some grieving after receiving an illness diagnosis. But, she adds that once the diagnosis is made, they can move forward with a new outlook on an improved future.
Treatment Options
The positive side is that women can be given diagnosed and receive treatment for ADHD. They can also receive the assistance they need to manage their symptoms at school, at work and at home.
It is important to be aware of the signs. They include difficulties in organising and managing time and tasks, forgetfulness trouble adhering to guidelines or rules, difficulties getting along with classmates, colleagues, or teachers, and uncontrollable behavior. These issues can cause serious issues with school and work performance, self-esteem, and relationships.
adhd traits in women say that women and girls are less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD because they are able to hide their symptoms better than men or boys. They are also less likely to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive or mixed subtypes of the disorder. The symptoms of these subtypes are more easy to notice in boys and men and are therefore more likely to attract attention which leads to a diagnosis.
Therapy or counseling can assist people suffering from ADHD manage their disorder as well as behavioral strategies. These therapies can help with many symptoms, including depression and anxiety. Certain kinds of therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you learn specific skills to overcome negative thoughts that can cause problems in your life.
Other treatments, such as meditation, yoga and regular exercise, can improve brain function by helping you calm down and focus your mind. They can also improve your energy levels and help control mood disorders. You can also reduce symptoms by getting enough sleep and eating a healthy diet.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from asking colleagues, teachers, or supervisors to provide accommodations. They can request extra time or more in-depth explanations.
ADHD can be treated by taking medication. The majority of stimulant medications are first-line treatments, however non-stimulant drugs may be a viable option.
Some people with ADHD can manage their symptoms through lifestyle adjustments, getting the proper amount of rest and utilizing technology like ADHD-related smartphone apps. They should also regularly visit the doctor and adhere to any medication regimen that is prescribed. They might also be able to take part in a study known as a clinical trial. It is a research study that explores new ways of treating or preventing illnesses.
Support Groups
Women can feel isolated when they try to cope with the complexity of ADHD. Support groups can help. Some organizations provide forums where people can meet online and share their experiences. Some of these groups may not be moderated by mental health professionals, but they could offer a safe place to express frustrations and brainstorm with others. Some of these groups offer resources and tips for dealing with ADHD.
According to a study females with symptoms that are predominantly inattentional behavior are less likely to get recognized and referred to an assessment than men who exhibit the same symptoms. In the end, they are more likely to go without being diagnosed and experience impairment. Many women have also learned to cover up symptoms using strategies such as reminders on their phones and routines to satisfy social expectations. These strategies can backfire, creating more stress and anxiety.
It is important that women seek out an expert doctor with a deep understanding of the relationship between gender and ADHD. A therapist who has experience can assist women to identify ways they could be masking symptoms and internalizing difficulties. This will allow them to recognize their strengths and boost their self-efficacy.
Being diagnosed with ADHD can have a positive impact on the way women perceive themselves. Some of the interviewees in the study mentioned that they felt relief once they were given a diagnosis. They were in a position to accept their own challenges, and felt more confident about their capabilities. Knowing that they weren't alone helped them to forgive themselves for their past mistakes and make positive changes in their lives.
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD is life-changing. The symptoms can impact their relationships as well as their careers and day-to-day activities. For example, they might not remember appointments or underestimate how long it will take to finish a task. They may struggle to concentrate at work or school, and they may be struggling with their finances. Many of these women have a hard time staying married or maintaining relationships, while others struggle with low self-esteem and depression.
Medication
Women who aren't diagnosed with ADHD have a difficult time managing their daily lives. They may have difficulty managing their financial management, organising their homes or maintaining healthy relationships. The symptoms can also affect academic and work performance. The longer ADHD is left untreated and untreated, the more it will affect a woman's self-esteem as well as her confidence to be successful in her professional and personal lives.
Many women with ADHD go undiagnosed because their symptoms are less hyperactive or impulsive and more inattentive. This is due to outdated diagnostic criteria, assumptions and the lack of awareness that female ADHD symptoms are usually different from those of boys and men. It is also important to remember that certain people, especially girls, suffer from co-occurring mental disorders like anxiety and depression, or other physical ailments such as sleep disorders, tics and fibromyalgia. These can trigger similar symptoms as the symptoms of ADHD.
Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD in adulthood is an experience of empowerment that can significantly improve a woman's quality of life. It will also help to restore her self-worth as she will realize that her challenges aren't her fault.
Stimulant medications are typically the first option for adults with ADHD. However, for certain adults, stimulants aren't the right option. Non-stimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine or antidepressants, are available for people who can't tolerate stimulants. It is important to disclose any other supplements or medications you're taking to your doctor, as some interact with certain drugs.
A therapist or healthcare provider can teach you behavioral strategies to increase productivity and organize and also manage symptoms. They can also assist you in addressing any emotional issues that could contribute to the symptoms of ADHD. Some people suffering from ADHD get the most benefit from working with an individual life coach or career coach, since they can help them develop skills for managing daily tasks and setting and meeting goals.
There are more efforts being made to better understand the differences in diagnosis treatment, gender and diagnosis. This includes making sure that all children are tested for ADHD and that girls and women with the disorder receive accurate diagnoses.