ADHD in Women Adults
Women suffering from ADHD face a variety of problems. They may struggle to manage everyday tasks, deal with problems with relationships and to meet societal expectations. They might also have trouble staying focused at work and can't remember appointments.
A recent study looked into the experiences of women diagnosed with ADHD as adults. The study found that although the diagnosis brought relief and made sense of past struggles, it was also bittersweet.
Diagnosis
It can seem like the first step towards understanding and managing symptoms when you're diagnosed with ADHD. It can also aid in putting a face to the things you struggle with and view them as something that can be addressed, not just something that makes you "weird."
Women are better at hiding their symptoms, and it can be difficult for them to diagnose themselves with ADHD. They may resort to disguise their inattention by working late or using devices like planners and smartphones to keep track of daily tasks. Or, they may be able to hide their impulsivity by acting quickly to advance an assignment or make remarks in conversations without thinking.
For a diagnosis, it's important to consult a mental health professional who has experience treating adults. It's also helpful to have a supportive group of friends and family members to guide you through the process. A mental health specialist or health care provider might employ standardized behavior ratings scales or ADHD symptoms checklists to assess adult symptoms and determine if they fulfill the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis. A physical exam and medical history are typically part of an adult diagnostic assessment. Psychological tests can be used to determine executive function, working memory, (abilities like decision-making and planning) spatial and visual skills (related to spatiality) and reasoning abilities.
If not treated, ADHD can lead to a variety of issues for women. Some of these are career-related problems, such as difficulty staying on track, following corporate policies, or meeting deadlines, and can contribute to feelings of low self-esteem and confidence. In addition women with ADHD are more likely to suffer from co-occurring disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
Many adults who have not been diagnosed with ADHD regret the years of struggle without knowing why. They may have experienced difficulties in relationships or at work, or be carrying a heavy burden of financial stress. Matlen states that people usually have to acknowledge their past and do some grieving after receiving a diagnosis. But, she adds that once the diagnosis is confirmed, they can move forward with renewed hope for the future.
Treatment Options
Women are able to be diagnosed ADHD and treated. They can also get the help they require to manage their symptoms at home, work and school.
The most important thing is to recognize the symptoms, which include difficulty organizing and managing time and work; forgetfulness; trouble following the rules or procedures; difficulty getting along with colleagues, classmates or teachers and an impulsive attitude. These issues can have severe consequences for work and school performance as well as relationships and self-esteem.
Experts believe 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. These symptoms are more evident in males and females. This makes them more likely to be diagnosed.
Therapy or counseling can help those suffering from ADHD manage their condition in addition to behavioral strategies. These treatments can help with various symptoms, such as anxiety and depression. Certain types of therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help you understand how to change negative thought patterns that can cause issues in your daily life.
Other methods like meditation, yoga and regular exercise can improve the brain's performance by helping you relax and concentrate on your thoughts. They can also boost your energy and help you combat mood disorders. You can also ease symptoms by getting enough sleep and eating well.
Adults with ADHD could benefit from asking co-workers or teachers to provide accommodations. They can request extra time or more detailed explanations.
Medicines can also be helpful in treating ADHD. The use of stimulant medications is typically the first option for treatment, but nonstimulant medications may also be used.
Some adults with ADHD can manage their symptoms through lifestyle adjustments, getting the proper amount of sleep and using technology like ADHD-related 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 research study that seeks to discover new ways to prevent or treat illnesses and conditions.
Support Groups
Women are often lonely when they are struggling to deal with the challenges of their ADHD. Support groups can help. There are forums that people can meet online and share their experiences. While high functioning adhd in women of these groups are not moderated by an expert in mental health They can provide a safe environment to share frustrations and brainstorm solutions with other members. Some of these groups have resources and suggestions for coping with ADHD.
According to a study females who have symptoms that are mostly inattentional behaviors are less likely to be identified and referred to an evaluation than men who display similar symptoms. They are more likely to go undiagnosed, and suffer impairment. Many women have also learned to mask symptoms by using tactics like phone reminders and daily routines to conform to social expectations. These strategies can also backfire, leading to additional anxiety and stress.
It is crucial that women find a doctor with a good understanding of the interaction between gender and ADHD. In addition, an experienced counselor can help women identify the ways they could be masking their symptoms and internalizing their struggles. In this way, they are able to discern areas of strength and self-efficacy.
A diagnosis of ADHD may affect the way women see themselves. Many of the women who were interviewed in the study reported they felt relieved when they received a diagnosis. They were capable of accepting their own challenges, and felt more confident about their abilities. Furthermore, knowing they were not alone helped them to forgive themselves for past mistakes and make positive changes to their lives.
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be life-altering. The symptoms can impact their relationships as well as their careers and day-to-day activities. They might underestimate the time it will take to finish a task or forget to make appointments. They might have trouble focusing at school or at work and may have difficulty managing their finances. Some of these women report having a difficult keeping their marriage or maintaining relationships while others struggle with low self-esteem and depression.
Medication
Women with undiagnosed ADHD struggle with dealing with everyday life. They may have difficulty managing their finances, keeping their home tidy or maintaining a healthy relationship with their partner. The symptoms can also impact academic and work performance. If ADHD is left untreated, it can negatively impact the self-esteem of a woman as well as her ability to feel successful in her professional and personal lives.
Many women suffering from ADHD aren't diagnosed because their symptoms are less intense or impulsive, and less attentive. This is probably due to outdated diagnostic criteria and assumptions as well as a lack of awareness that female ADHD symptoms can be different than those seen in males and males. It is also important to remember that some people, especially girls, will suffer from co-occurring mental disorders like anxiety and depression, or other physical ailments like sleep disorders, tics, and fibromyalgia. These can trigger similar symptoms as those of ADHD.
Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD in adulthood is an experience of empowerment that can dramatically enhance a woman's quality of life. It will also help her rebuild her sense of self-worth since she will understand that her challenges are not the result of her own fault.
Stimulant medications are typically the first choice for adults suffering from ADHD. However, for certain adults, stimulants aren't the right option. For those who cannot tolerate stimulants, there are alternative medications such as antidepressants or atomoxetine. It is crucial to report any other supplements or medications you are taking to your doctor, as certain medications interact with others.
A health professional or therapist can teach behavioral strategies that can improve organization and productivity and help you manage symptoms. They can also work with you to deal with any emotional issues that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. Some people with ADHD benefit from working with a professional or a life coach. They can show them how to manage their daily tasks, set goals and achieve them.
Although it is true that girls and women are more underdiagnosed than their male counterparts, there are now more efforts to understand and address the differences between diagnosis and treatment. This includes ensuring that all children are tested for ADHD and that girls and women with ADHD receive accurate diagnoses.