ADHD in Women Adults
Women who suffer from ADHD have many issues. They may find it difficult to cope with daily tasks, deal with relationships issues, and fulfill social expectations. They might also have difficulty staying focused at work or avoiding appointments.
A recent study examined the experiences of women diagnosed with ADHD as they grew older. The study found that, while the diagnosis was a relief and helped make sense of the previous difficulties, it can also be bittersweet.
Diagnosis
It can seem like the first step in understanding and managing your symptoms when you are diagnosed with ADHD. It can help you to put a name on your issues and realize that they are something that you can manage, not something that makes you "weird."
Women may have a tougher time diagnosing themselves with ADHD since they tend to be better at masking their symptoms. They may resort to conceal their inattention by working late or using tools like planners and smartphones to track daily tasks. Or, they might be able to hide their impulsivity by acting fast to advance the workplace or by uttering comments in conversations without thinking.
If you're diagnosed, it's important to speak with a mental health care professional who has experience treating adults. It's also helpful to have a supportive group of friends and family members to assist you in navigating the process. A health healthcare provider or mental health professional could employ standardized behavior rating scales or ADHD symptom checklists to assess an adult's symptoms and determine if they meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. A physical exam and medical history are typically part of an adult diagnostic examination. Psychological tests can be used to assess executive function, working memory (abilities such as decision-making and planning), visual and spatial skills (related to space) and reasoning skills.
If not treated, ADHD can lead to a variety of problems for women. Certain of these are related to work, such as having trouble maintaining a job, adhering to corporate policies, or meeting deadlines, and may lead to feelings of low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Furthermore, women who have ADHD are more likely to suffer from co-occurring disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
Many people who do not get diagnosed for ADHD as adults regret the years they spent struggling and not knowing why. They might have struggled with their relationships, at work, or under financial stress. Matlen states that when patients receive a diagnosis, they often have to do some grief work and accept the reality of what happened in their past. But, she adds that once the diagnosis is in hand it is possible to move forward with renewed hope for a better future.
Treatment Options
The positive side is that women can be given an assessment and treatment for ADHD. They can also receive the support they need to manage their symptoms at school, at work, and at home.
It is important to recognize the symptoms. These could include the inability to organize and manage time and tasks, forgetfulness trouble adhering to guidelines or rules, difficulties getting along with colleagues, classmates or teachers, and uncontrollable behavior. These issues can have severe consequences for work and school performance as well as relationships and self-esteem.
Some experts believe that the diagnosis of ADHD in girls and women is not widely reported because they are better at masking their symptoms than men or boys. They are also less likely to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive or mixed subtypes of the disorder. Symptoms of these subtypes are more easy to spot in boys and men which is why they are more likely to be noticed that can lead to a diagnosis.
Therapy or counseling can help those suffering from ADHD manage their condition in addition to behavioral strategies. These therapies can help with various symptoms, such as anxiety and depression. Certain kinds of therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you learn specific techniques to alter negative patterns of thinking which can lead to issues in your life.
Other therapies such as meditation, yoga, and regular exercise can boost the brain's performance by helping you relax and focus on your thoughts. They can also help you manage mood problems and improve your energy levels. You can also reduce symptoms by getting enough rest and eating a healthy diet.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may benefit from asking their coworkers or teachers to make accommodations. They can ask for extra time or more detailed explanations.
Medicines can also be helpful in treating ADHD. The majority of stimulant medications are first-line treatments, however non-stimulant drugs might be a possibility.
Some people with ADHD are able to manage their symptoms by making lifestyle adjustments, getting the appropriate amount of rest and using technology such as ADHD-assisting smartphone apps. They should also visit their doctor regularly and take any prescribed medication. They may also be able to take part in a clinical trial which is a study that focuses on new ways to prevent or treat diseases and conditions.
Support Groups
Women can feel isolated when they try to cope with the complexities of ADHD. Support groups can help. Some organizations offer forums where people can share their experiences online. Although some of these groups are not moderated by a mental health professional They can provide a safe environment to share frustrations and brainstorm solutions with others. Some of these groups have information and tips on dealing with ADHD.
According to a research study, females with symptoms that are primarily inattentive behavior are less likely to get recognized and referred to an assessment than men who exhibit similar symptoms. They are more likely to go undiagnosed and also suffer from impairment. Additionally many women have learned to mask their symptoms by relying on strategies like reminders on their phones and daily schedules, to meet societal expectations. These strategies can backfire, causing more anxiety and stress.
It is essential that women find an expert doctor with a deep understanding of the connection between gender and ADHD. In addition, an experienced counselor can help women identify the ways in which they might be masking their symptoms and internalizing their difficulties. This way, they are able to discern areas of strength and self-efficacy.
Being diagnosed with ADHD can have a positive impact on how women view themselves. Some of the interviewees in the study reported that they felt relief after they received an diagnosis. They were able to accept their own challenges and felt more confident in their capabilities. Additionally, knowing that they were not alone aided them to forgive themselves for their past mistakes and make positive changes to their lives.
For many adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be life-altering. The symptoms can impact their relationships with their jobs, relationships, and daily activities. They might underestimate the time required to complete a task, or forget appointments. They might have trouble focusing at work or in school, and may have difficulty managing their finances. Many of these women have difficulty maintaining a relationship or marriage while others suffer from low self-esteem.
Medication
Women with undiagnosed ADHD have a difficult time managing their daily lives. They may struggle with financial issues, keeping their homes clean, or maintaining healthy romantic relationships. The symptoms can also affect the academic and work performance. If ADHD is untreated, it can negatively impact a woman’s self-esteem as well as her capacity to feel successful both in her personal life and career.
Many women suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed because their symptoms are less hyperactive or impulsive, and less attentive. This is due to outdated diagnostic criteria, assumptions, and the lack of awareness that female ADHD symptoms can be different from those that are seen in boys and men. It is also important to note that some people, particularly girls, may have co-occurring psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression, or other physical ailments such as sleep disorders, tics and fibromyalgia. These conditions can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD.
Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD in adulthood is an empowering experience that can significantly enhance a woman's quality of life. It can also help her regain her self-esteem as she comes to recognize that the challenges she faces aren't their own fault.
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated first with stimulant medication. However, for certain adults, stimulants aren't always the best option. If you are unable to tolerate stimulants, there are non-stimulant drugs like antidepressants or atomoxetine. conversational tone is crucial to report any other supplements or medications you take to your physician, since some interact with certain drugs.
A health professional or therapist can teach behavioral strategies that can improve organization and productivity and help you manage symptoms. They can also help you deal with any emotional issues that could be causing the symptoms of ADHD. Some people with ADHD benefit from working with a professional or a life coach. They can help them learn how to manage their daily tasks, set goals and achieve them.
While it is still true that girls and women are more often undiagnosed than male counterparts, there are increasing efforts to better understand and address the differences in diagnosis and treatment. This involves ensuring that all children get a screening for ADHD and that girls and women who suffer from the disorder are correctly diagnosed.