ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who were assigned female at birth disguise their symptoms of ADHD. This can make it difficult to get an accurate diagnosis.
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must have lasted from childhood, technically before the age of 12. Doctors can interview close friends and family members.
Take this test to find out the way your symptoms compare to those of a woman with ADHD. It isn't a way to diagnose you but it can help your healthcare professional determine your needs better.
Symptoms
Many people view ADHD as an illness that affects children, however it can also manifest in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive type of ADHD is more common among women. This subtype is less obvious than the other two. It is usually manifested as internal symptoms, such as an inability to focus or a tendency to daydream.
Women who are not attentive ADHD may experience lack of focus and poor time management and trouble paying attention in class. They may also have trouble keeping track of their bills and appointments or completing household chores. Women may compensate by working harder or being more organized. However, this often backfires and causes feelings of frustration. Some women resort to unhealthy coping behaviors, like alcohol and drug drinking.
It is recommended to speak with your doctor or mental health professional if you suspect you might have ADHD. They can help you identify your symptoms and refer you to a specialist if needed. Your doctor will ask about your family history, medical history, as well as any mental health issues that may be similar to symptoms 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.
You must have been experiencing symptoms for at minimum six consecutive months prior to when you can be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms are also affecting your life negatively and impacting your ability to perform.
You can manage your symptoms by following a healthy diet and exercising regularly. You can also limit the amount of processed or sugary food items. You can also try mindfulness meditation to help calm your body and mind as well as control impulsiveness and distractibility, and promote restful sleep. You can also talk to your doctor about taking medication to treat the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is an essential step to managing the symptoms and living the life you desire. It's impossible to do it on your own. A mental health professional is needed to evaluate your symptoms and conduct an extensive physical examination. A medical professional will look over 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 kinds of drugs to treat the disorder: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are more commonly used because they perform more quickly and provide a longer-lasting effect than non-stimulants. The type of medication your psychiatrist or therapist prescribes for you will be based on the specific needs of your patient. It is recommended to discuss your options with them so that they can make the most informed decision regarding your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more common among boys and men, cisgender females can also suffer from its symptoms. Due to the gender discrimination and the fact that many doctors aren't aware of how ADHD can affect women, it can be more difficult for women to receive a reliable diagnosis as adults.
This assessment was designed by keeping the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on the DSM-5 criteria, but is broken down to illustrate how these symptoms manifest for women. While it cannot diagnose you, you can use it to begin conversations with a therapist, or a medical doctor regarding your symptoms.
When you go to the evaluator, be prepared with all of your symptoms along with any other documents that might be relevant, like performance evaluations from work or copies of old test results. The evaluator will go through them to determine whether your symptoms match the DSM-5 criteria. adhd symptoms in women test could also ask you questions about your lifestyle and habits in order to determine the severity of your symptoms.
The evaluator might need to know what, for instance how long you've had suffering from ADHD symptoms and how they have affected your life. They'll also look over your medical history and run a few tests to rule out other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid problems.
Treatment
Controlling ADHD in adulthood can be difficult However, treatments are available. The most commonly used method is medication therapy. They can reduce symptoms and regulate brain activity, but they must be prescribed and administered under the supervision of a health professional. In most instances, stimulant medication is the first option. However, non-stimulant medications can be prescribed in certain cases. In addition to addressing ADHD, your doctor may recommend additional psychological or neuropsychological tests to determine the effects of co-existing disorders like depression or anxiety.
Symptoms of ADHD can hinder relationships and personal development. Women who suffer from ADHD typically have a difficult to read social cues and recognizing body language, which can lead to poor communication skills. This can cause problems at home and work. Women who suffer from ADHD are also at greater risk of developing mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. It is estimated that 60% of people suffering from 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 in finding a diagnosis and addressing ADHD is recognition. As adults age, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. It is difficult for them to get the help and support they require. The good news is, the current research on ADHD focuses on analyzing the impact of ADHD in women and is making advancements in the treatment and diagnosis.
Many women with ADHD can benefit from a change in lifestyle and therapeutic methods in addition to medications. For instance some women benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can assist them with how to organize their lives and establish structures to enhance their lives and productivity. Other treatment options include cognitive behavior therapy, which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings, while changing negative thought patterns to healthier ones. Women who are pregnant may also benefit from family therapy and counseling for marriage. They can learn to communicate more effectively with their partners and work out conflicts. The practice of healthy sleep habits can make a huge difference in the treatment of symptoms of ADHD, such as difficulty staying focused and falling to sleep at the end of the night. This means a regular bedtime routine, listening relaxing music or reading an audiobook and staying away from electronics before bed.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women is underdiagnosed, there are plenty of resources and a huge community of people ready to assist you. Consult your primary care physician for recommendations, or call your insurance provider to find an ADHD specialist near you. It's also recommended to join an ADHD support group near you. Many of these groups can assist you in finding health care specialists who are proficient in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults and can offer a welcoming environment.
Doctors may have difficulty diagnosing girls and women with ADHD as they usually exhibit different symptoms than men and boys. Some doctors might not be aware of the differences between them and make inaccurate diagnoses or use poor treatment strategies. This is especially true when it comes the hyperactive impulsive and inattentional ADHD symptoms.
If you think you might be suffering from ADHD If you think you might be suffering from ADHD, take the female ADHD test online. This free screening tool is built on DSM 5 criteria and was developed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed up with an expert consultation. Be aware that this article uses the words "male" and "female" to refer to gender, however, we believe in using the sex identities that represent the person's affirmation of gender identity.