How To Know If You're Prepared For ADHD Symptoms In Women
ADHD Symptoms in Women Test Positive
You often forget things, lose them or are absentminded in your daily activities. Memory problems can cause problems with your academic and work performance.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must be present before the age of 12, and lasted at least six months and impacted your everyday life. The test will ask questions about a variety of symptoms related to inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
Attention-deficit Symptoms
Women with inattentive ADHD often have difficulty staying organized and remembering specifics. They might forget appointments or information they have already been told. They might also find it hard to concentrate during college lectures or business meetings. At adhd in women checklist , their homes could be messy and they could have trouble keeping their bills or household chores.
Unlike hyperactive/impulsive-type ADHD, inattentive symptoms aren't as noticeable and can make it harder for girls and women to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the stigma of being diagnosed with ADHD can cause people to believe that women don't suffer from the same issues like men and boys, and therefore shouldn't be assessed or treated. This makes it difficult for educators and healthcare professionals to recognize and treat girls and women who suffer from ADHD.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms are also harder for people to see in women and girls since they are more likely to be internalized. For example many women suffering from inattentive ADHD struggle to maintain positive work and personal relationships because their impulsivity, forgetfulness and difficulty focusing are frequently mistakenly interpreted as disorganized or disengaged. They can compensate by working too much using productivity apps, or by being more in control of their relationships.
The hormonal fluctuations women encounter throughout their lives may affect ADHD symptoms. These changes are most pronounced in the luteal stage, during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and the years leading up menopausal symptoms as estrogen levels decrease. The research is ongoing to determine the ways that these hormone changes can influence a person's ADHD symptoms and the medications they take.
It is essential to realize that gender refers to a person's biological characteristics, including their hormones, chromosomal makeup and anatomy, while sexuality refers to an individual's internal view of their self as a man or woman, or a nonbinary, regardless of their external anatomy. Verywell Health acknowledges that sex is a thorny subject and that some people may be able to identify as neither female nor male, or as an intersex individual. Verywell Health doesn't define the sex for its readers. Please see the Verywell Health FAQ on sex and gender for more details.
Hyperactive Symptoms
In general, women who suffer from ADHD don't have the same amount of hyperactive symptoms as do men. It can be more difficult for women to be diagnosed with ADHD and be treated. However, this doesn't mean that ADHD isn't a problem for females. In fact, it's quite the opposite: the number of ADHD diagnoses for women has risen since 2020.
In the beginning the likelihood for boys is higher to be diagnosed with an ADHD diagnosis than girls. As they age, the numbers balance out. However, it may be a challenge for people with ADHD to recognize their condition because the symptoms can change over time and could be confused with other issues.
For instance, some people with ADHD are unable to sleep at the night. This issue can be caused by stress, hormone fluctuations, or medications used to treat other ailments. A heavy meal or alcohol consumption prior to bedtime can worsen the problem. It is crucial to understand that getting a good night's rest is an essential aspect of tackling ADHD as an adult. Making sure you are practicing healthy sleep routines, such as setting an established routine and using a weighted blanket, can help.
The emotional issues can be particularly difficult for women suffering from ADHD, who are more prone to mood swings. This can result in being misunderstood or dismissed, which can lead to relationship problems. They are also more susceptible to disorders like depression, which can make focusing and remembering things difficult.
To find out more about ADHD it is essential to speak with a health professional. This includes a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. There are three subtypes of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and mixed. To be diagnosed, one must exhibit six or more of the symptoms listed in each category for a minimum of six months. Inattention ADHD symptoms are usually more internal, for example, being easily distracted or a daydreamer. Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms are more visible and include fidgeting, squirming in a chair or running around in situations where remaining seated is expected. Mixed ADHD is the most common and can cause both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.
Symptoms of a sudden onset
Women with impulsive ADHD are often unable to function in social situations. They can be extremely talkative and unrelated topics during conversations, and aren't able to pick up on social cues or body language. They may also have difficulty controlling their emotions, making them more prone to rage or anger. This makes it difficult for them to interact with others and work in a group environment. Women with impulsive ADHD are more likely to have sexually active early in life, which may result in unwanted pregnancy or STIs.
Mood swings are commonplace in women suffering from ADHD and many notice that their symptoms get worse during certain times of the month or major life events, such as a divorce or loss of loved ones. Women with an impulsive ADHD are often misunderstood and dismissed due to gender stereotyping or other causes.
Women are also more adept in hiding their ADHD symptoms. This makes it more difficult for them to get diagnosed or receive treatment. Some experts believe that this is due to the fact that females develop strategies and coping mechanisms that help them to conceal their ADHD. This might involve adjusting their schedules or setting phone reminders for appointments, using self-care or medication to manage their symptoms, or altering their behavior to suit their social expectations.
Women suffering from ADHD may have trouble sleeping well, which can affect their impulsivity and attention. To improve your quality of sleep, adhere to a routine for bedtime that includes calming activities before you go to sleep, and avoid screen time before you head to bed. Exercise can also improve the quality of your sleep, since it releases neurotransmitters, which improve your mood and concentration.
If you suspect that you have ADHD it is essential to see a mental health professional for an assessment. It is the only way you can determine if you suffer from ADHD and to determine how severe your symptoms are. If you're looking to take the next step Our Find a Therapist resource can assist.
Social Signs and Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to deal with their issues in social situations. They can feel like others think less of them because they don't pay attention to what's happening, or listen to or follow through on things. This can lead both to frustration and misunderstandings in personal and professional relationships.
Women can also find it difficult to obtain an accurate diagnosis of ADHD because they often mask their symptoms. This is to comply with social expectations and norms, as well as to handle daily tasks. This could include healthy coping mechanisms, such as using a calendar or setting reminders on their phone however, it could also be a result of unhealthy coping practices that include excessive fidgeting, not eating, and working longer hours to make up for.
It is also difficult to spot ADHD symptoms in women who are older since they are often confused with other conditions like anxiety or depression. Anxiety and ADHD have some similar symptoms, including difficulty staying focused, restlessness or difficulty sleeping. The forgetfulness, disorganization, and an impulsiveness that are typical of ADHD do not occur with anxiety.
The hyperactivity and impulsivity of ADHD can be confused with a mood disorder especially in adults. Women who have a history of bipolar disorder, depression or other mood disorders are more likely to develop ADHD. It is important to seek out a trusted health professional to look into your symptoms and come up with an accurate diagnosis.
Adult women with ADHD can improve their quality of life by learning coping strategies and getting treatment. They could benefit from counseling to learn emotional regulation or coaching by a professional who will teach them strategies to manage their behavior and assist them in setting goals. You can also get medication for ADHD symptoms with the prescription of the doctor. People suffering from ADHD are often prescribed stimulant medication however other options may be equally effective.