ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who were born female can conceal their symptoms of ADHD. This makes it harder to be diagnosed.
For ADHD to be considered a diagnosis the symptoms must have been present since childhood. This is technically before the age of 12 years old. Doctors can interview close family members and friends.
Use this quiz to see the way your symptoms compare to those of women with ADHD. This test isn't a diagnostic tool however it will provide your healthcare professional with an understanding of your requirements.
Signs and 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 common among women. The symptoms of this subtype are not as obvious as those of the other two, and they usually appear as symptoms that are internal, such as the inability to stay on task or a frequent daydreaming.
Women with inattentive ADHD may experience lack of focus as well as poor time management and trouble paying attention in class. They may also have difficulties keeping track of their bills and appointments, or even completing household chores. Women can compensate by working harder or being more organized. This could backfire and lead to frustration. Some women resort to unhealthy ways of coping for example, alcohol and drug use.
If you think you may have ADHD and are concerned, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. They can help you identify your symptoms and refer you to a specialist if necessary. Your doctor will be interested in knowing your medical history, family history, and any other mental health issues you may have that could mimic the effects of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five ongoing symptoms to meet 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 must have lasted for at least six months in order to be diagnosed with one of the types of ADHD. The symptoms must also be impacting your life negatively and affecting how well you function.
You can lessen the severity of your symptoms by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly, as well as reducing your intake of processed or sugary foods. You can also use mindfulness meditation to relax your mind and help you control impulsiveness, distractibility and promote a restful night's sleep. You can also speak with your doctor about using medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD is a crucial step towards managing your symptoms and living the life you desire. But it's not something you're able do on your own. A mental health professional is required to evaluate your symptoms and conduct a thorough physical examination. A medical doctor will review your medical history to rule out any other conditions that could be related to ADHD.
In many cases, people who are diagnosed with ADHD receive treatment immediately. There are two main drugs for the disorder which are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed because they work more quickly and have a longer-lasting impact than non-stimulants. The type of medication your psychiatrist or therapist prescribes for you will depend on the specific needs of your patient. It is important to discuss all options with them so that they can make an informed choice about your symptoms.
Although ADHD is more prevalent in males and females but cisgender women may suffer from the same symptoms. However, due to the gender bias and the fact that many doctors don't realize how ADHD can affect women, it is more difficult for them to receive a correct diagnosis as adults.
This online assessment was created with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on the DSM-5 criteria, but is divided into women's symptoms. While it's not able to tell you if you're but you can use it to begin an interview with a therapist, or a medical doctor about your symptoms.
Bring all your symptoms to the evaluator with any relevant documentation like performance evaluations at work or copies of previous test results. The evaluator will examine them to determine whether your symptoms are in line with DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator could also ask you questions about your routine and lifestyle in order to determine the severity of your symptoms.
The examiner may need to know for instance how long you've been suffering from ADHD symptoms and how they've affected your life. They will also review your medical history and perform tests to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
Managing ADHD in adulthood can be a challenge however, treatment options are available. The most commonly used method is medication therapy. They can ease symptoms and control brain activity, but they must be prescribed and administered under the supervision of a health professional. treatment for adhd in women are usually the first choice, however non-stimulants can also be utilized in certain instances. Your doctor may also recommend neuropsychological or psychological tests to determine the impact of coexisting disorders like depression or anxiety.
The signs of ADHD can affect relationships and personal growth. Women with ADHD may have difficulty interpreting social cues or interpreting body language. This can lead to inadequate communication. This can cause problems at work and at home. Women with ADHD also are more susceptible to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. It is estimated that 60% of adults with ADHD continue to suffer from symptoms into adulthood. Women are also less likely than men to get rid of the condition.
The most important step to finding a diagnosis and treating ADHD is recognizing. For a lot of adults, their ADHD symptoms are more manageable as they get older. However, it is still difficult for them to receive the assistance and support they require. The good news is that the current research on ADHD is focused on understanding its impacts in women, and advances in treatment and diagnosis are being made.
Many women with ADHD are able to benefit from lifestyle changes and therapeutic methods in addition to medications. For instance, some benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can help them learn ways to manage their time and create structures to improve their life and productivity. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings, while changing negative thought patterns to healthier ones. Family therapy and counseling for marriage can also be beneficial for certain women. They can learn to communicate more effectively with their partners and learn how to solve conflicts. A healthy sleeping routine can also make a significant difference in managing symptoms of ADHD, such as difficulty staying focused and falling to sleep at night. This can be accomplished by having a regular bedtime routine or listening to calming audiobooks or music, and avoiding electronics or screen time prior to going to sleep.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women is not well-diagnosed however, there are plenty of resources and a whole community of people ready to assist you. Consult your primary care physician for recommendations, or contact your insurance company to find an ADHD specialist near you. It's also recommended to join an ADHD support group close to you. Many of these groups can help you find health care professionals who are experienced with diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults and provide a safe and supportive environment.
Doctors may have difficulty diagnosing girls and women suffering from ADHD because they typically present with different symptoms than men and boys. Some doctors may misunderstand the differences between them and make inaccurate diagnoses or use poor treatment strategies. This is especially true when it comes to the hyperactive, impulsive and inattentional symptoms of ADHD.
If you suspect you have ADHD, you can take a female ADHD test online. This free screening tool is built on DSM 5 criteria and was developed using the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is not an assessment test for diagnosing ADHD and should be followed by an expert consultation. Be aware that the article makes use of "male" and 'female" as terms that refer to gender. However we believe in using a sex identity that is reflective of a person’s affirmed gender.