ADHD in Women Adults
Women with ADHD have a variety of issues. They might find it difficult to handle daily tasks, deal with problems with relationships and meet social expectations. They might also have trouble staying focused at work and may forget appointments.
A recent study looked at the experiences of women who were diagnosed with ADHD as they grew older. The study found that even though diagnosis was a relief and helped in the understanding of past struggles but it was also often bittersweet.
Making a diagnosis
It may seem like the first step to understanding and managing symptoms once you are diagnosed with ADHD. It can help you to identify your issues and realize that they are something that you can treat and not cause you feel "weird."
Women are more adept at hiding their symptoms, which is why it can be difficult for them to identify themselves as having ADHD. They might be adept at disguising inattentiveness by working late or using devices such as planners and smartphones to keep track of their daily tasks. In addition, they may be able to hide their impulsivity through quick actions to get ahead in an assignment at work or by uttering comments in conversations without thinking.
It is important to talk to an expert in mental health who has worked with adults for an assessment. It's also helpful to have a support group of family and friends to assist you in navigating the process. A health care provider or mental health professional could use standardized behavior rating scales or ADHD symptoms checklists to evaluate an adult's symptoms and determine if they meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. A physical exam and medical history are also usually part of a diagnostic evaluation for adults. Psychological tests are conducted to look at working memory, executive functioning (abilities such as decision-making and planning) spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Untreated ADHD can create a myriad of challenges in the lives of women. Certain of these are related to work issues, like having difficulty maintaining a job, adhering to corporate guidelines, or meeting deadlines, and can contribute to feelings of low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Women with ADHD are more likely to be afflicted with co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression.
Many adults who have not been diagnosed with ADHD regret the years of struggle they endured without knowing why. They may have had difficulty with relationships or at work, or they may be carrying a heavy burden of financial stress. Matlen says that once patients receive a diagnosis they are often required to do some grief work and accept what happened in their past. She says, however, that once a diagnosis has been given, people can move forward with confidence and hope for the future.
Treatment Options
The positive side is that women can get a diagnosis and receive treatment for ADHD. They can also receive the help they require to manage their symptoms at work, home and at school.
The key is to identify the signs that are present, such as difficulty organizing and managing time and tasks; forgetfulness; trouble following the rules or procedures; difficulty working with colleagues, teachers or classmates; and the tendency to be impulsive. These problems can have serious consequences for school and work performance, as well as relationships and self-esteem.
Experts believe that women and girls are less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD because they can mask 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. The symptoms of these subtypes are easier to detect in both genders which is why they are more likely to attract attention that leads to the diagnosis.
In addition to the behavioral strategies, many people suffering from ADHD discover that therapy or counseling can help to manage their condition. These therapies can aid in managing a variety of symptoms, including anxiety and depression. Certain types of therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you learn specific skills to change negative patterns of thinking that can cause problems in your life.
Other treatments, such as yoga, meditation and regular exercise, can improve brain functioning by helping you relax down and focus your mind. They can also help control mood disorders and increase your energy levels. Getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet can also improve your symptoms.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from asking their coworkers, teachers, or supervisors to provide accommodations. They may ask for more detailed explanations or extra time on assignments.
The use of medications can also be beneficial in treating ADHD. Stimulant medications are usually first-line treatments, but non-stimulant medication might be an option as well.
Certain adults suffering from ADHD are able to manage their symptoms through lifestyle adjustments, getting the appropriate amount of sleep and using technology like ADHD-related smartphone apps. They should also visit regularly an expert in health care and adhere to any medication regimen that is prescribed. They might also be able to participate in a study called a clinical trial. This is a type of research study that explores new ways of treating or preventing diseases.
Support Groups
Women may feel lonely when they are trying to manage the complexity of ADHD. Support groups can help. Some organizations offer forums where individuals can meet online and share their experiences. Although some of these forums are not moderated by an expert in mental health they can offer an opportunity to talk about frustrations and brainstorm solutions with other members. Some of these support groups also provide resources and advice on managing ADHD.
According to a research study, females who have symptoms that are mostly inattentional behavior are less likely to be identified and referred to an evaluation than men who display similar symptoms. They are more likely to be undiagnosed, and suffer impairment. Many women have learned to hide their symptoms using strategies such as reminders on their phones and routines to meet social expectations. These tools can also trigger stress and anxiety.
It is important for women to locate an expert in the field who can understand how gender and ADHD interact. Additionally, a skilled therapist can help women recognize the ways they may be attempting to hide their symptoms and internalizing their struggles. This can help them recognize their strengths and boost their self-efficacy.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD can have a positive impact on the way women perceive themselves. Some of the participants in the study mentioned that they felt relief once they received a diagnosis. They could then face their own struggles and feel more confident in their abilities. In addition, knowing they weren't alone allowed them to forgive themselves for their past mistakes and make positive changes in their lives.
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD is life-changing. The symptoms can impact their relationships, careers, and day-today activities. For instance, they may forget appointments or overestimate how long it will take to complete a task. They might have trouble focusing at work or at school and might have trouble managing their finances. Some women have a hard time maintaining a relationship or marriage and others are suffering from low self-esteem.
Medication
Women who have not been diagnosed with ADHD might have trouble navigating the day-to-day life. They may struggle with financial management, organising their homes or maintaining healthy relationships. The symptoms can also affect academic and work performance. The longer ADHD goes untreated and untreated, the more it will impact a woman's self-esteem and confidence to be successful in both her professional and personal lives.
Many women with ADHD aren't diagnosed because their symptoms are more sluggish than those who are hyperactive or hyperactive or. This is due to outdated diagnostic criteria, assumptions and a lack awareness that female ADHD symptoms are often different from those that are seen in males and females. It is important to remember that some people suffer from co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, or physical ailments like sleep disorders, tics, and fibromyalgia. These can cause symptoms that are similar to those associated with ADHD.
Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD as an adult is a transformative experience that can boost the quality of life for women. It will also help her rebuild her sense of self-worth because she will realize that her challenges are not the result of her own fault.
Adults suffering from ADHD typically are treated first with stimulant medication. However, for some adults, stimulants aren't always the right option. For those who aren't able to take stimulants, there are non-stimulant medications like antidepressants and atomoxetine. It is important to disclose any other medications or supplements you are taking to your doctor, as certain medications interact with others.
A therapist or healthcare professional can teach you behavioral strategies to increase productivity and organize, as well manage symptoms. They can also work with you to address any emotional issues that might be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. adhd symptoms in women with ADHD benefit from working with a career or life coach. adhd symptoms in women can teach them how to manage daily tasks as well as set goals and reach them.
There are more efforts being made to better understand the differences in diagnosis treatment, gender, and diagnosis. This includes ensuring that all children get screenings for ADHD, and that women and girls who suffer from the disorder are correctly diagnosed.