ADHD Symptoms For Women
Girls and women with ADHD can experience a variety of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and anxiety. Yet these symptoms may be less evident than those of men and boys who suffer from ADHD, which could lead to underdiagnosis or mistaken diagnosis.
Women can also experience symptoms that are exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations, like the ones that occur during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or perimenopause (4 years before menopause). ADHD treatment that incorporates lifestyle and medication can help improve relationships and set people up for success at home and at work.
Inattentiveness
Everyone loses their keys and fails to complete a task at times, but those with inattentive ADHD can't stop losing track of the things they require for everyday life. They may forget to pick up their laundry or empty the trash bins. They also have trouble keeping up with conversations. Their homes are often messy and not cleaned. They're prone to making careless mistakes that could have devastating consequences.
Attention-deficit ADHD in females is associated with more difficulty in coping with social rejection, as well as academic performance that is lower than their peers. They may develop coping strategies that are not effective, like self-harming behaviors and an inability to sustain friendships or gain access to peer support, which can lead to depression and emotional distress. They may attempt to alleviate these issues by displaying a strong attitude that could lead to high-risk activities such as alcohol or drug use, prostitution and/or involvement in groups.
Adults may have trouble diagnosing ADHD as symptoms may change as time passes. It is essential to have a complete medical and mental assessment so that a skilled healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis. They'll look at the person's current and past behavior, including childhood experiences. They'll also check for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as anxiety and stress, minerals deficiency, hearing and vision issues, sleep disorders learning disabilities, cognitive decline, allergies, and certain medications.
Adults who suffer from inattentive ADHD can be treated using therapy, lifestyle modifications, and medication. The most popular ADHD drugs are stimulants like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. They help focus and decrease impulses. Nonstimulants, like clonidine and atomoxetine, can be used when stimulants don't help or cause adverse side consequences. Therapy can also aid adults with inattentive ADHD alter their surroundings and develop coping techniques to manage their symptoms. They can also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a form of therapy that teaches you how to manage emotions and change the way they think about negative thoughts. A life coach or ADHD coach can also be useful for adults, assisting them to establish an established routine and set realistic expectations for themselves.
Hyperactivity
Women with ADHD often have a difficult time feeling accepted, and may be unable to recognize the impact their conditions have on their life. They may have a tough to stay focused or organized, which can result in issues at school and at work as well as in their personal lives. They are also more likely to be suffering from other conditions, such as depression or anxiety. These comorbidities could directly impact their symptoms and how they manage them.
Because of the way ADHD affects women and girls, they may develop low self-esteem and have trouble maintaining friendships. It may also be more difficult for them to get treatment because they are less likely to receive a referral from their teachers or parents. In addition, rating scales used to diagnose ADHD tend to be skewed towards male behavior. Women can hide their symptoms, which can lead to them not being diagnosed and therefore not receiving treatment.
Another issue is that adhd symptoms can fluctuate from day to day. This is especially the case during hormonal changes such as the menstrual period or pregnancy. In addition, hormones can have a direct impact on the functioning of specific parts of the brain including executive functions such as verbal memory, sleep, and concentration.
For example, estrogen decreases after ovulation, and in the middle of the menstrual cycle while progesterone increases. This can cause ADHD symptoms in a dramatic way.
Young women and girls with ADHD are more aggressive and impatient, which can lead to more conflict in their relationships. They are more likely to engage in sexual activities with people who aren't familiar with and have difficulties asserting themselves. They can also be at risk of being victims of sexual domestic violence and abuse because they may not have access to contraception.
Girls and women with adhd can benefit from effective coping strategies that help them manage their symptoms. They can also benefit by engaging in therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, to better understand and manage their emotions and thoughts, and to replace harmful behaviors with healthier ones. In some cases doctors may recommend couples therapy or family therapy in order to address the difficulties that girls and women with ADHD have in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Women and girls with ADHD are more likely to struggle with controlling their emotions. This may manifest as mood swings, issues in coping with stress or criticism and an sensitivity to sexual assaults and other forms of victimization. They are also more likely to experience psychosexual issues, like promiscuity or a higher risk of unplanned pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease. This means that females suffering from ADHD may often be more likely to seek treatment later in life.
Girls and women who have ADHD may exhibit the same behavior patterns that males and females. They can be constantly frenzied or agitated and in motion. They may also talk excessively and make quick decisions. These issues can result in them being rude or rude, as well being prone to risky behaviors. Additionally, some women and girls who suffer from ADHD can be prone to self-injury non-suicidal (NSSI) that includes cutting or burning particularly during adolescence.
While these signs can make it difficult to perform at work or school, many girls and women with ADHD are skilled at masking their symptoms. This can make them appear more careful or perfectionists. This can prevent others from noticing that they're easily distracted or having difficulty keeping their focus. adhd symptoms for women with ADHD also develop unhealthy coping strategies, such as using drugs or alcohol to disguise their issues.
Rating scales used to diagnose ADHD are still skewed toward male behaviors, which could lead to under-diagnosis of women or girls. The symptoms of ADHD might not be recognized and may be absorbed. This can result in feelings of self-doubt or shame.
For adults and teens with ADHD, a diet rich in vegetables, fruits whole grains healthy fats, protein and healthy fats can boost your mood and focus. Regular exercise can boost concentration and focus and release good neurotransmitters which reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. A registered dietitian can help make a plan that meets your specific requirements.
Anxiety
Anxiety is normal, but when it gets out of control and becomes a problem in your daily life you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are characterised by unease, distress and a high level of fear in normal or non-threatening situations. They are present when there is no reason to be worried, and cause physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches, or rapid heartbeat. Anxiety disorders are twice as common in women than men, and they can impact the work environment and personal relationships.
The gender of your partner can also impact how you deal with your ADHD and anxiety. Women with ADHD and anxiety are often afflicted with mood swings that can be misinterpreted as "overly emotional" by others. This can lead to social problems, like strained relationships and unsuccessful careers. Mood swings can also make it difficult to sleep enough and can make your anxiety symptoms worse.
The symptoms of anxiety and ADHD are more apparent at certain times in your life, based on your gender age, your age, and hormone levels. If you are an adult woman with ADHD the symptoms can change throughout the month or during menopausal and pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Symptoms of ADHD can also be more noticeable during menstruation or when they flare up during periods of stress, such as the break-up of a relationship, a job loss, or an important life event.
To reduce the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, try sleeping at the same time every night and set a regular time to get up. To get better sleep you can try listening to relaxing music before bedtime or meditating. Eating healthfully can also reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms, so try eliminating foods that cause allergies or sensitivities. Try eating lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and moderate amounts of carbohydrates. Exercise can also help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD. Try exercising for 30 minutes a day or make use of a light therapy device to increase exposure to natural sunlight.