ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who were born female conceal their symptoms of ADHD. This makes it harder to get a diagnosis.
For ADHD to be considered a diagnosis symptoms must be present from the age of a child. This is technically before the age of 12 years old. Doctors can interview close friends and family members.
Use this quiz to see how your symptoms compare with those of a woman suffering from ADHD. It isn't a way to diagnose you, but it can help your healthcare provider understand your needs better.
Signs and symptoms
Many people think of ADHD as a disorder that affects children, but it can also be seen 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 in women. adhd women uk is less obvious than the other two. It typically manifests as a result of internal issues like the inability to concentrate or a tendency to think about daydreaming.
Women who are not attentive ADHD may experience lack of focus and poor time management and trouble paying attention in classes. They may also have difficulty keeping track of expenses and appointments, as well as completing household tasks. Women can try to overcome these problems by working harder or trying to become more organized. However, this can backfire and can cause feelings of frustration. Some women resort unhealthy methods of coping, like drinking or using drugs.
If you think you might have ADHD and are concerned, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. They can help you identify signs and refer you if needed to a specialist. Your doctor will ask about your family history, medical history, as well as any mental health issues that could cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five continuous symptoms that satisfy the criteria 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.
You must have had symptoms for at minimum six consecutive months prior to when you are diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must also be affecting your life negatively and affecting your ability to perform.
You can decrease the severity of your symptoms by eating healthy and exercising regularly, as well as cutting down on processed or sugary foods. You can also utilize mindfulness meditation to calm your mind and help you manage impulsivity, distraction and promote restful sleep. You may also discuss with your doctor about the possibility of taking medication to treat ADHD symptoms.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD is a crucial step towards managing your symptoms and living the life you desire. It's not possible to manage it by yourself. A mental health professional is required to assess your symptoms and perform a thorough physical examination. A medical doctor will review your medical history to rule out any other conditions that could 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 because they are quicker acting and have a longer lasting effect than non stimulants. The kind of medication that your psychiatrist or therapist prescribes for you will depend on the specific needs of your patient. 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 among males and females but cisgender females too can suffer from its symptoms. Due to the gender bias and the fact that a lot of doctors aren't aware of how ADHD can affect women, it can be more difficult for women to receive a proper 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 is broken down to show how these symptoms look for women. Although it is not able to diagnose you, you can use it to initiate an interview with a therapist, or a medical doctor regarding your symptoms.
When you visit the evaluator, you must bring all your symptoms and any other records that could be relevant, such as performance evaluations from work or old test results. The evaluator will go through the records to determine whether your symptoms are in line with DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator will also ask questions about your lifestyle and habits to help determine the severity of your symptoms.
For example, the evaluator will be looking to determine how long your ADHD symptoms have been present and how they've interfered with your life. They will also look over your medical history, and conduct tests to rule out conditions that could cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
Managing ADHD in adulthood can be difficult, but 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 taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Stimulant medications are usually the first choice, however non-stimulants are also a possibility in certain situations. Your doctor may also suggest neuropsychological or psychological tests to determine the impact of coexisting conditions like depression or anxiety.
Symptoms of ADHD can affect relationships and personal development. Women with ADHD may have difficulty reading social cues or interpreting body language. This can result in poor communication. This can create difficulties at workplace 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 addressing ADHD is recognizing. As people age, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. It is challenging for them to get the assistance and support they need. The positive side is that current research on ADHD is focused on understanding its impacts in women, and improvements in treatment and diagnosis are being developed.
In addition to medication, many women with ADHD benefit from a range of lifestyle modifications and strategies for treating. For instance, some benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can teach them ways to manage their time and create structures to enhance their lives and productivity. Other treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings, while swapping negative thinking patterns for healthier ones. Family therapy and counseling for marriage can be beneficial to certain women. They are able to communicate more effectively with their partners and resolve conflicts. Practicing healthy sleep habits can also make a significant difference in the treatment of symptoms of ADHD like difficulty staying focused and falling asleep at the end of the night. This means a regular bedtime routine, listening to soothing to music or listening to an audiobook and avoiding electronics before the bed.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women is underdiagnosed, there are plenty of resources and a large community of people ready to assist you. Consult your primary doctor for recommendations, or contact 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 help you find health care professionals who have experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults, and they can also provide a welcoming environment.
Because girls and women typically suffer from different symptoms of ADHD than boys and men, they can be difficult for doctors to identify. Some doctors may misunderstand the differences between them and make inaccurate diagnoses or employ unsuitable treatment strategies. This is particularly relevant to hyperactive impulsive and inattentional ADHD symptoms.
You can take an online test for female ADHD If you think you might be suffering from the disorder. This free test is built on DSM 5 criteria and was created with the real experiences of ADHD women in mind. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed up with an expert consultation. Be aware that the article uses "male" and "female" as terms to refer to gender. However we believe in using sex identities that reflect the person's affirmation of gender.