Women with ADHD have many issues. They might find it difficult to manage their everyday tasks, deal with relationship issues and meet social expectations. They may also have difficulty staying focused at work and forget appointments.
A recent study examined the experiences of women who were diagnosed with ADHD in their adulthood. The study found that even though diagnosis brought relief and helped to make sense of the past but it was also often bittersweet.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult might feel like the most important step towards understanding and managing your symptoms. It can help you put a name on your struggles and see that they are something that you can treat and not cause you feel "weird."
Women have a difficult in identifying themselves as having ADHD because they are better at concealing their symptoms. They might have gotten used to hiding their inattention by working late or by using tools like planners or smartphones to track daily tasks. They may also be able to conceal their impulsivity if they act quickly to speed up a project or make comments in conversations without thinking.
In the event of a diagnosis it is important to talk to a mental health care professional who has experience working with adults. A supportive network of friends and family can also be helpful in navigating the process. A health care provider or mental health professional could employ standardized behavior rating scales or ADHD symptom checklists to assess the symptoms of an adult and determine if they meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. A physical examination and a medical history are typically part of an adult diagnostic examination. Psychological tests are used to determine executive function, working memory, (abilities such as planning and decision making), visual and spatial skills (related to spatiality), reasoning and reasoning skills.
If untreated, ADHD can lead to numerous challenges in women's lives. If adhd in adult women treatment is not treated, it can cause many issues for women. Some are career-related. For instance being unable to keep an employment position, adhering to corporate policies, or completing the deadline. This can lead to feelings of low confidence and self-esteem. Additionally women with ADHD are more likely to suffer from comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Many adults who have not been diagnosed with ADHD regret the years of struggle they endured without being aware of the reasons. They may have had issues with their relationships, at work or in financial pressure. Matlen says people often have to accept their past and engage in grieving work following the diagnosis. She says, however, that once a diagnosis is made, people can move forward in a new way with reassurance and hope for the future.
Treatment Options
The positive side is that women can be given diagnosed and receive treatment for ADHD. They can also receive the assistance they require to manage their symptoms in the workplace, at school and at home.
It is essential to recognize the symptoms. These could include the difficulties in organising and managing time and work, forgetfulness trouble adhering to guidelines or rules, difficulties getting along with classmates, colleagues or teachers, as well as uncontrollable behavior. These issues can have serious consequences for school and work performance as in relationships and self-esteem.
Certain experts say that the diagnosis of ADHD for women and girls is under-reported because they are more adept at concealing their symptoms than men or boys. They are also less likely to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive or mixed subtypes of the disorder. Symptoms of these subtypes are simpler to notice in men and boys and are therefore more likely to attract attention that leads to a diagnosis.
In addition to the behavioral strategies, many people with ADHD discover that therapy or counseling helps them manage their condition. These therapies can help with a variety of symptoms, including depression and anxiety. Certain kinds of therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy can teach you how to alter negative thinking patterns that can cause issues in your daily life.
Other treatments, like meditation, yoga and regular exercise can boost brain function by helping you calm down and concentrate your thoughts. They can also improve your energy levels and help combat mood disorders. You can also improve symptoms by getting enough rest and eating a healthy diet.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from asking their coworkers or supervisors to make accommodations. They can ask for more in-depth explanations or extra time on assignments.
ADHD can be treated by medication. Stimulant medications are usually first-line treatments, however non-stimulant drugs could be a viable option.
Some adults with ADHD can manage their symptoms with changes in their lifestyle, rest and technology like adhd symptoms women-assisting smartphone apps. They should also make regular visits to an expert in health care and adhere to any medication regimen prescribed. They might also be able to participate in a clinical trial which is a study that seeks to discover new methods to treat or prevent illnesses and conditions.
Support Groups
Women may feel lonely when they are trying to manage the complexities of ADHD. Support groups can help. Some organizations offer forums where individuals can meet online and discuss their experiences. Some of these groups might not be moderated by mental health professionals, but they can offer a safe place to vent frustrations and discuss ideas with others. Some of these groups have resources and tips for dealing with ADHD.
According to a study females who exhibit symptoms that manifest as inattentive behavior are less likely to be recognized and referred for evaluation as males who exhibit the same symptoms. They are therefore more likely to be undiagnosed, and suffer impairment. Many women also learn to cover up symptoms using tactics like phone reminders and daily routines to conform to social expectations. These tools can also trigger anxiety and stress.
It is important for women to locate an expert doctor who is aware of the ways in which gender and ADHD interact. In addition, an experienced counselor can help women identify the ways they could be hiding their symptoms and internalizing their struggles. In this way, they are able to identify areas of strength and self-efficacy.
A diagnosis of adhd in women symptoms may have a positive effect on the way women view themselves. Several of the women interviewed in the study reported that they felt rejoicing after receiving an diagnosis. They were able to accept their own challenges and felt more confident about their capabilities. Knowing they were not alone helped them to let go of their mistakes in the past and to make positive life changes.
For many adults, being diagnosed of ADHD is life-changing. The symptoms can impact their careers, relationships and everyday activities. They might overestimate the time required to complete a task or forget appointments. They may have difficulty focusing at school or at work and might have trouble managing their finances. Many of these women have a hard time maintaining a relationship or marriage, while others suffer from low self-esteem.
Medication
Women who aren't diagnosed with ADHD have a difficult time dealing with everyday life. They may have trouble managing their finances, keeping their homes tidy or maintaining a healthy relationship with their partner. The symptoms can also affect the academic and work performance. If ADHD is untreated it can have a negative impact on women's self-esteem as well as her ability to feel successful in her career and in her personal life.
Many women suffering from ADHD aren't diagnosed because their symptoms are more numb than those who are hyperactive or impulsive. This could be due to outdated diagnostic criteria and assumptions, as well as the lack of awareness that female ADHD symptoms can be different than those seen in men and boys. It is also important to remember that some people, particularly girls, have co-occurring psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety and depression, or other physical ailments such as sleep disorders, tics, and fibromyalgia, which may cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD.
Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD as an adult is a powerful experience that can improve a woman’s quality of living. It will also help her rebuild her sense of self-worth since she will understand that her challenges are not her fault.
Stimulant medications are typically the first choice for adults suffering from ADHD. Certain adults may not be able to tolerate stimulants. Non-stimulant medicines, such as antidepressants and atomoxetine are available to those who are unable to take stimulants. It is important to inform your doctor about any supplements or other medications you are taking, as they may interfere with certain drugs.
A health professional or therapist can provide strategies for coping with stress that improve organization and productivity and help you manage symptoms. They can also assist you to deal with any emotional issues that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. Some people with ADHD benefit from working with a professional or a life coach. They can teach them how to manage their daily tasks and set goals, and then achieve them.
There are increasing efforts being made to better understand the differences in diagnosis, treatment and gender. This includes making sure that all children are tested for ADHD and that women and girls with the disorder receive accurate diagnoses.