ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) who suffer from ADHD often hide their symptoms. This can make it more difficult to get an accurate diagnosis.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must have existed since childhood, technically prior to the age of 12. Doctors may interview close family members and friends.
Take this test to find out the way your symptoms compare to those of a woman with ADHD. This test isn't a diagnostic tool but it could give your healthcare professional an understanding of your requirements.
Symptoms
ADHD can be a problem for adults too. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive form of ADHD is more common in women than in men. The symptoms of this subtype are less obvious than those of the other two, and usually manifest as internal symptoms like inability to focus or frequent daydreaming.
Women who are not attentive ADHD may experience inattention, poor time management, and difficulties paying attention in classes. They may also have trouble keeping track of bills and appointments, as well as completing household tasks. Women may compensate for these issues by working harder or attempting to become more organized. This could backfire and lead to frustration. Some women resort to unhealthy methods of coping, like drinking or taking drugs.
It is advisable to talk to your doctor or mental health professional if you think that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can help you recognize your symptoms and send you to a specialist when needed. Your doctor will want to know your family history, medical history and any other mental health issues you may have that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists five ongoing signs that meet the criteria needed for 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 have to have been present for at least six months in order to be diagnosed with any type of ADHD. The symptoms must also be affecting your life negatively and affecting how well you function.
You can decrease the severity of your symptoms by following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and reduce your intake of sugary or processed food items. You can also practice mindfulness meditation to calm your mind and help control impulsiveness, distractibility 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 having the life you want. It's impossible to do it by yourself. A mental health professional is needed to examine your symptoms and conduct an exhaustive physical examination. A medical professional will also look over your medical background to rule out other issues that may be similar to ADHD.
Many people with ADHD are treated right away after being diagnosed. There are two main treatments for the disorder: 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 kind of medication that your psychiatrist or therapist prescribes to you will depend on your specific needs. It is recommended to discuss your options with them to ensure they can make the best choice regarding your symptoms.
Although ADHD is more prevalent in males and females but cisgender women may suffer from the same symptoms. Unfortunately, because of the gender bias and the fact that many doctors aren't aware of the ways ADHD can affect women, it can be more difficult for them to receive a correct diagnosis as adults.
This assessment was designed with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is based on DSM-5 criteria, but it is broken down to illustrate how these symptoms manifest for women. While it cannot diagnose you, you can use it to begin a conversation with a therapist or medical doctor regarding your symptoms.
If you visit the evaluator, bring all your symptoms and any other records that could be relevant, like performance evaluations from work or old test results. The evaluator will review the records to determine if they satisfy the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator may also ask you questions about your lifestyle and habits to determine the severity of your symptoms.
For example, the evaluator will need to know the length of time your ADHD symptoms have been present and how they've interferred with your life. They'll also examine your medical history and conduct some tests to rule out other ailments that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
Treatment
There are a variety of treatment options for adults with ADHD. Medications are the most common treatment. They can ease symptoms and control brain activity, but must be prescribed and taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. In the majority of instances, stimulant medications are the first choice. However, non-stimulant medicines may be used in certain situations. Your doctor might also suggest neuropsychological or psychological tests to determine the impact of coexisting conditions like anxiety or depression.
ADHD symptoms can interfere with the development of relationships and personal growth. Women who suffer from ADHD may have difficulty reading social cues and interpreting body language. This can result in poor communication. This can cause problems at home and at work. Women with ADHD also are more likely to develop mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression. In fact, it's believed that 60% of people with ADHD suffer from symptoms that last throughout their lives, and women are less likely to outgrow their condition than men.
The most important step in finding a diagnosis and treating ADHD is recognition. For many adults they find that their ADHD symptoms are more manageable as they get older. However, it is still difficult for them to receive the help and support they need. The positive side is that current research on ADHD is focused on understanding the effects it has on women, and advancements in diagnosis and treatment are being developed.
In addition to medications in addition to medication, many women with ADHD benefit from a variety of lifestyle modifications and strategies for treating. For instance, some benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can teach them how to organize their lives and establish structures to improve their life and productivity. Home include cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches them to accept their thoughts and feelings, while switching negative thinking patterns to healthier ones. Some women might also benefit from family therapy or marital counseling. They can learn how to communicate more effectively with their partners and learn how to resolve conflicts. The practice of healthy sleep habits can make a big difference in managing symptoms of ADHD like difficulty staying focused and falling to sleep at late at night. This means an established routine for bedtime and listening to soothing audiobooks or music and avoiding electronic devices or screen time before going to sleeping.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women is underdiagnosed, there are many resources and a huge community of people willing to help you. If you're unsure what to do, ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or contact your insurance provider to request an ADHD specialist in your region. It's also a good idea for you to join an ADHD support group in your area. These groups can help you find health care professionals who have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults, and they can also provide a supportive environment.
Doctors may be unable to diagnose girls and women suffering from ADHD as they usually exhibit different symptoms than men and boys. Some doctors may not be aware of or undervalue the difference, resulting in inaccurate diagnoses and poor treatment strategies. This is particularly applicable to hyperactive and impulsive ADHD symptoms.
If you suspect that you be suffering from ADHD You can take the female ADHD test online. This tool is free and was designed with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is built on DSM 5 and is a screening tool based on DSM 5 Criteria. This is not a diagnosis test and should be followed by a consultation with a professional. It is important to note that this article uses the words "male" and "female" to be referring to gender, but we will use sex identities that reflect the person's gender-specific identity.