ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and people born female (AFAB) who have ADHD often hide their symptoms. This can make it difficult to receive an assessment.
To be eligible for ADHD to be recognized, symptoms must have been present from the age of a child. This is technically before the age of 12 years old. Doctors may interview close friends and family members.
Use this quiz to see how your symptoms compare with those of a woman suffering from ADHD. This quiz can't diagnose but it could provide your healthcare professional with a better understanding of your requirements.
Symptoms
Many people view ADHD as an illness that affects children, however it can also occur in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive version of ADHD is more frequent among women. This subtype is less evident than the other two. It is usually manifested as internal symptoms like a lack of focus or a tendency to daydream.
Women with inattention ADHD can experience lack of focus and poor time management and trouble paying attention at work or in classes. They may also have trouble keeping track of their bills, appointments, or complete household chores. Women may compensate by working harder or becoming more organized. However, this can backfire and can cause feelings of frustration. Some women resort to unhealthy ways of coping for example, alcohol and drug use.
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 needed to a specialist. Your doctor will ask about your family history, your medical history, and any mental health issues that could be similar to 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.
Your symptoms have to have been present for at least six months before you can be diagnosed with any type of ADHD. They must also have a negative impact on your daily life and hinder your ability to function. you perform.
You can lessen the symptoms by following a healthy diet and exercising regularly. You can also cut down on your intake of processed and sugary food items. You can also practice mindfulness meditation to calm your mind and help you control impulsiveness, distractibility and promote a restful night's sleep. You can also talk to your doctor about using medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is a crucial step in managing symptoms and living the life you desire. It's impossible to do it on your own. A mental health professional is required to assess your symptoms and perform a thorough physical exam. More methods will review your medical history to determine if there are any other conditions that could be related to ADHD.
In many cases, people who are diagnosed with ADHD seek treatment immediately. There are two kinds of medications to treat the disorder: stimulants or non-stimulants. The more popular use of stimulants is because they work more quickly and provide a longer-lasting effect than non-stimulants. The kind of medication your therapist or psychiatrist prescribes to you will depend on your specific needs. It is recommended to discuss your options with them to ensure they can make the best decision regarding your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more prevalent among males and boys however, females who are cisgender can also suffer from the symptoms. Due to the gender-based bias and the fact that a lot of doctors aren't aware of the ways ADHD can affect women, it is more difficult for them to receive a correct diagnosis as adults.
This assessment was designed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on the DSM-5 criteria but broken down to reveal how these symptoms appear for women. It is not a diagnostic tool, but it can serve as a starting point for an interview with a medical doctor or therapist regarding your symptoms.
When you visit the evaluator, bring all of your symptoms along with any records that may be relevant, such as performance evaluations from your job or copies of 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 habits to help determine the severity of your symptoms.
For example, the evaluator will want to know how long your ADHD symptoms have been present and how they've interferred with your life. They will also go over your medical history, and conduct tests to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
There are many treatment options available to adults suffering from ADHD. The most commonly used treatment is medication. They can help regulate the brain's activity and alleviate symptoms however, they should be prescribed by a healthcare professional and administered under their supervision. Stimulant medication is usually the first choice, however non-stimulants are also a possibility in some cases. In addition to addressing ADHD your doctor may suggest additional neuropsychological or psychological testing to examine the impact of co-existing conditions such as anxiety or depression.
The signs of ADHD can affect relationships and personal development. Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty interpreting social cues or understanding body language. This can result in poor communication. This can lead to problems at work and home. Women with ADHD are also at a higher risk for mood disorders, including anxiety and depression. In fact, it is thought that 60% of people who suffer from ADHD suffer from symptoms that persist throughout their lives, and women are less likely to outgrow their condition than men.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step towards obtaining an accurate diagnosis and treatment. For a lot of adults who suffer from ADHD, their ADHD symptoms become more manageable as they age. However, it is still difficult for them to receive the assistance and support they need. The good news is that current research on ADHD is focused on understanding its impacts in women, and advancements in treatment and diagnosis are being made.
Many women with ADHD are able to benefit from a change in their lifestyle and therapeutic approaches in addition to medications. For example, some benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can assist them with organizational strategies and develop structures to enhance their lives and productivity. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches them to accept their thoughts and feelings while switching negative thinking patterns to healthier ones. Women might also benefit from family therapy or counseling for marriage. They can learn how to communicate better with their partners and learn how to solve conflicts. The practice of healthy sleep habits can make a huge difference in reducing symptoms of ADHD that can be a problem, like having trouble staying focused and falling asleep at night. This includes regular bedtime routines or listening to calming music or an audiobook, and avoiding electronics or screen time prior to going to going to bed.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women isn't well-diagnosed There are many resources and a whole community of people who are willing to help you. Consult your primary doctor for recommendations, or contact your insurance company to locate an ADHD specialist near you. Additionally, it's always an excellent idea to search for an ADHD support group in your local area. These groups can assist you to find health professionals with expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults, and they can also provide a calming environment.
Because women and girls often experience different symptoms of ADHD than boys and men it can be difficult for doctors to diagnose. Certain doctors may not understand the differences between them and make inaccurate diagnoses or use poor treatment strategies. This is especially applicable to impulsive hyperactive and inattentive ADHD symptoms.
You can take a test online for female ADHD in case you suspect that you may have the disorder. This free screening tool was developed with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is based on DSM 5 and is a screening tool based on DSM 5 Criteria. It is not an assessment test for diagnosing ADHD and should be followed up with professional advice. Please note that the article makes use of "male" and 'female" as terms to refer to gender. However we believe in using sex identity that reflects a person’s affirmed gender.