Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Women
Women suffering from ADHD often face different societal expectations regarding how they should manage their work, family and home lives. This can lead to feelings of guilt and anger if your symptoms are getting impeding your progress.
Research suggests that girls are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than men and boys. This could be because they conceal their symptoms or develop strategies to manage their symptoms, such as:
1. Inattentiveness
Having trouble paying attention at school or work is one of the main indicators of adhd. Women with adhd are more likely to forget important meetings or projects, or are misguided by the instructions. They may also find it difficult to concentrate in situations that are noisy or busy. Some people who suffer from ADHD are prone to what's known as "thousand-yard stares" and zone out during conversations. These symptoms can lead to problems at work or with relationships.
Girls and women are at a higher chance of having undiagnosed ADHD as they get older. They develop strategies to cope that mask their symptoms, and continue to do so until adulthood. They may even begin to consider their symptoms personal characteristics, which could make them less likely to seek help.
In addition, a lot of teachers don't suggest ADHD assessments for girls as often as they do for boys. If a girl's numbness or ADHD is impacting her school performance or social interactions then she should speak to a medical professional.
Being inattentional ADHD can lead to a lot of emotional stress. It can be difficult when you feel you are not able meet the expectations of friends or family members as well as colleagues. It can be frustrating to feel like you're not able to get along with your kids or siblings. Certain people with ADHD suffer from anxiety and depression, which can be exacerbated by their inattention and impulsivity. In addition to seeking assistance there are a few things you can do to decrease the effects of these symptoms. Regular exercise can help release neurotransmitters to improve attention and concentration. It also helps reduce anxiety and mood swings which are common among people who suffer from ADHD.
2. Impulsivity
The impulse-driven symptoms of ADHD can be difficult to manage. You may blurt out things you shouldn't, buy something on a whim or get into trouble with the law due to your behavior. It can be difficult to control your feelings and emotions. Self-injury could result in self-injury, including cutting, burning or scratching oneself. This can also lead to drug or alcohol dependence.
People with impulsivity often have problems with relationships and work or school performance. You can manage your impulsivity with medication prescribed by your doctor. You can increase your control over impulses with medications like amphetamine, dextroamphetamine and the methylphenidate. Non-stimulant medications such as clonidine and Guanfacine can also help to control your impulses.
Women are more likely than men and boys to have a hyperactive/impulsive form of ADHD. However, this type of ADHD is harder to notice and can lead to underdiagnosis. Women might hide their symptoms to meet societal expectations and expectations. This type of masking can be particularly problematic in the adolescent years and early adulthood. Some women resort to unhealthy coping strategies, like excessive drinking and use of drugs, to conceal their ADHD issues.
Women who suffer from high functioning ADHD might cover up their symptoms by achieving success in particular areas of their lives, such as at school or at work. This can lead to an illusion of security and can cause you to feel overwhelmed by the demands of daily life. Talk to your doctor about accommodations at school or work that will aid you in managing your ADHD symptoms. This can be an excellent way to increase awareness with your co-workers or professors about the challenges you may face.
3. Disorganization
If you have ADHD then avoiding appointments, arriving late for work, forgetting dates, or avoiding conversations can result in frustration and make others feel unimportant or offended. The condition can also make it difficult to manage finances manage schedules, keep track of appointments and complete tasks. For instance, if you have trouble remembering what you'll need for groceries, you may not be able to cook your meals or overspend on unnecessary things.
Women suffering from ADHD have difficulty keeping track of their daily chores, bills and homework. The condition can also cause messy homes, messy workspaces and a tendency to hoard. People suffering from ADHD suffer from a condition known as "time blindness," which makes it difficult to determine how much time has passed and the length of time you've spent on a particular task. Problems with time management can lead to feelings of shame or guilt when combined with difficulty staying organized.
Research shows that women, girls and boys are more likely than men to have ADHD. However, the signs are often misdiagnosed or hidden. Many women don't receive a diagnosis until adulthood and their symptoms become more evident. In addition, social stigmas and stereotypes may make it difficult for women to access the help and treatment they require.
Your doctor might prescribe medication to help manage your ADHD symptoms. The stimulants methylphenidate and amphetamine boost and balance neurotransmitters - the brain chemicals that communicate. Nonstimulant medicines like antidepressants and atomoxetine can also be used to treat ADHD however they operate slower than stimulants. Your doctor could also recommend you to a mental health specialist, who can help develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses your individual requirements.
4. Impulsiveness
Women who suffer from ADHD may have a difficult managing their emotions and often feel more vulnerable to rejection. The chemical imbalance that is associated with ADHD affects the communication between brain regions that regulate emotions and interpret how to handle these emotions.
Moodiness and depression are common for people with ADHD and the combination of these with difficulties in managing obligations can cause problems with family and romantic relationships. Women who suffer from ADHD also be less confident in themselves and may have difficulty forming friendships and managing social situations. They might wander off on tangents or have difficulty understanding what others are saying. This could make it difficult for them to find a spot within an organization.
Women suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to motivate themselves to complete simple or boring tasks like washing dishes, cleaning, or doing laundry. This can cause unhealthy coping habits, such as binge watching TV shows or taking drugs. These behaviors are especially dangerous for adolescents and girls with ADHD who are more likely than other kids to engage in risky activities such as early sexual activities, fewer protected partners, and casual sex.
As adults, women with ADHD are more likely to go undiagnosed or be misdiagnosed than men because they tend to have inattentive symptoms instead of hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms. Many women hide their ADHD due to the numerous expectations that society places on them (managing home and family for instance). This can make it difficult for health professionals to see that there's a problem, especially because symptoms are more easily recognized in males and females.
5. Hyperactivity
For women suffering from ADHD the daily chores can be difficult to handle. They may struggle with organizing their lives, paying their bills on time and juggling work and school obligations. Additionally, emotional issues such as mood swings and difficulties controlling their emotions, can make it difficult to connect with others and can cause difficulties in personal relationships.
People with ADHD are unable to discern social cues or body language. They can go off on a tangent within conversations or struggle to follow the thread of conversation, causing difficulties with school or work performance as well as strained relationships. high functioning adhd in women may also be having difficulty making new friends or finding a balance between work, home, and social activities.
The symptoms of ADHD are able to change throughout the day, and may be affected by hormones, as during menstruation or pregnancy, or even perimenopausal. This could result in misdiagnosis or the wrong type of medications being used.
There are certain symptoms and signs that are common to ADHD that can help you or a loved-one recognize the condition. It is important to be aware of these signs to receive the treatment and help you need to manage symptoms effectively.
It's important to note that ADHD does not mean that you are unaffected by other mental or physical conditions. Your doctor or therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation. They'll have to inquire about your past and present behaviors and experiences, examine any medical history, and discuss with you about how your symptoms impact you in a variety of settings.