ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Females and women who have been who are assigned a female at birth (AFAB) who have ADHD often conceal their symptoms. This can make it more difficult to receive an accurate diagnosis.
For ADHD to be recognized, symptoms must have been present from childhood. This is technically before the age of 12 years old. Doctors can interview close family and friends.
This test will help you assess your symptoms against those of women with ADHD. It's not a diagnostic tool but it will help your healthcare professional determine your needs better.
Symptoms
Many people think of ADHD as a disorder that affects children, but it can also occur in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive type of ADHD is more common among women. This type of ADHD is less apparent than the other two. It is usually manifested as internal symptoms like an inability to focus or a tendency to daydream.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms for women could include forgetfulness, difficulty paying attention in class or at work, and poor time management skills. They may also have difficulties keeping track of their bills and appointments, as well as doing household chores. Women can try to overcome these problems by working harder or trying to become more organized. However, adult add women can backfire and creates feelings of anger. Some women resort to unhealthy ways of coping, for example, alcohol and drug drinking.
It is recommended to speak with your doctor or mental health professional if you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can help you identify symptoms and refer you when required to an expert. Your doctor will need to know your medical history, family history, and any other mental health issues that you might have that may be causing the symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists five ongoing symptoms that meet the criteria needed for 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 prior to when you can be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms are also affecting your life negatively and impacting your ability to function.
You can manage your symptoms by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. You can also reduce the amount of processed or sugary food items. You can also use mindfulness meditation to relax your mind and help you reduce impulsiveness, distractibility and promote restful sleeping. You may also discuss with your doctor about the possibility of taking medication to treat ADHD symptoms.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is an essential step towards managing your symptoms and living the life you've always wanted. But, it's not something you can do by yourself. A mental health professional is needed to examine your symptoms and perform a thorough physical examination. A medical professional will also review your past medical history to rule out any other problems that can mimic ADHD.
In many cases, those who are diagnosed with ADHD seek treatment immediately. There are two types of drugs to treat the disorder: stimulants or non-stimulants. Stimulants are more popular due to their speed of acting and have a more lasting effect than non-stimulants. Your therapist or psychiatrist will prescribe a medication based on your requirements. It is best to discuss your options with them so that they can make the best decision about your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more prevalent in males and females however, females who are cisgender can also suffer from its symptoms. Due to the gender-based bias and the fact that a lot of doctors aren't aware of how ADHD can affect women, it is more difficult for women to receive a proper diagnosis as adults.
This assessment online was developed by keeping the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on DSM-5 criteria, but has been broken down into symptoms for women. Although it is not able to diagnose you, you can use it to initiate conversations with a therapist or medical doctor about your symptoms.
If you visit the evaluator, you must bring all your symptoms and any other records that could be relevant, like performance evaluations from work or copies of test results. The evaluator will go through the records to determine whether your symptoms match the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator will also ask questions about your life and routines to determine the severity of your symptoms.
The evaluator may need to know what, for instance how long you've had experiencing ADHD symptoms and how they've affected your life. They'll also examine your medical history and run a few tests to rule out other ailments that could cause similar symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.
Treatment
Managing ADHD in adulthood can be a challenge However, treatments are available. The most popular treatment is medication. They can help regulate brain activity and ease symptoms however they should be prescribed by medical professionals and under their supervision. In most instances, stimulant medications are the first choice. However, non-stimulant drugs may be used in certain cases. In addition to treating ADHD your doctor may recommend additional psychological or neuropsychological tests to determine the effects of co-existing conditions such as depression or anxiety.
Symptoms of ADHD can hinder relationships and personal development. Women who suffer from ADHD might have trouble reading social cues or interpreting body language. This can result in poor communication. This can cause issues at home and work. Women with ADHD are also at a higher risk of developing mood disorders, including depression and anxiety. It is estimated that 60% of people with ADHD are still suffering from symptoms in adulthood. Women are also less likely than men to get rid of the condition.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step in obtaining a proper diagnosis and treatment. As adults get older, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. However, it's difficult for them to get the help and support they require. The good news is that the current research on ADHD is focused on understanding its impact in women and is making advances in the treatment and diagnosis.
Many women suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from lifestyle changes and therapeutic methods in addition to medication. For example certain women benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can help them learn ways to manage their time and create strategies to improve their lives and productivity. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches women to accept their thoughts and feelings while replacing negative thoughts with more positive ones. Marital counseling and family therapy can be beneficial to women who are suffering from depression. They are able to communicate better with their partners and work out conflicts. Healthy sleep habits can help with symptoms of ADHD such as difficulties getting up and falling asleep. This means a regular bedtime routine, listening to soothing music or reading an audiobook and staying away from electronics before going to bed.
Support
There are numerous resources available and a community of people who can help you, despite the fact ADHD isn't a diagnosis for women. Consult your primary care physician for recommendations, or call your insurance company to locate an ADHD specialist in your area. It's also recommended to find an ADHD support group close to you. These groups can assist you to find health professionals with expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD for adults, and can also provide a welcoming atmosphere.
Doctors may face difficulties diagnosing girls and women with ADHD, as they often present with different symptoms than men and boys. Some doctors may not be aware of or overlook these differences, leading to incorrect diagnoses and inadequate treatment strategies. This is especially applicable to hyperactive and impulsive ADHD symptoms.
You can take a test on the internet for female ADHD If you think you may be suffering from the disorder. This tool is free and was developed with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is built on DSM 5 and is a screening tool based on DSM 5 Criteria. This is not a diagnostic test and should be followed by a consultation with a professional. Be aware that this article uses the terms "male" and "female" to refer to gender, however, we are committed to using sex identities that reflect the person's affirmation of gender identity.