ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Females and women who have been born female (AFAB) who have ADHD often hide their symptoms. This makes it harder to get a diagnosis.
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must have been present since childhood, technically before age 12. Doctors may interview close family members and friends.
Take this test to determine how your symptoms compare to those of women with ADHD. It's not a diagnostic tool however it can help your healthcare provider understand your needs better.
Symptoms
Many people view ADHD as an illness that affects children, however it can also be seen in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive form of ADHD is more common for women than males. The symptoms of this type are not as obvious as those of the other two, and typically manifest as internal symptoms like inability to focus or a tendency to daydream.
Women with inattention ADHD are prone to forgetfulness, poor time management, and difficulty paying attention at work or in class. They may also have difficulties keeping track of their bills and appointments, as well as completing household tasks. Women can compensate by working harder or becoming more organized. This could lead to frustration. Women may resort to unhealthy ways of coping, such as drinking or using drugs.
If you think you may have ADHD and are concerned, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. They can assist you in identifying your symptoms and refer you to a specialist if necessary. Your doctor will need to know your medical history, family history and any other mental health issues you might have that could mimic the effects of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five ongoing symptoms to meet the requirements for an 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 before you can be diagnosed with one of the types of ADHD. The symptoms are also affecting your life negatively and affecting how well you perform.
You can manage your symptoms by eating an exercise and diet plan that is healthy and regularly. You can also cut down on your intake of processed and sugary foods. You can also practice mindfulness meditation to help calm your mind and help you reduce impulsiveness, distractibility and promote restful sleep. You can also talk to your doctor about using medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Finding out if you have ADHD is an important step in managing symptoms and having the life you want. But it's not something you're able do on your own. A mental health professional will be required to evaluate your symptoms and perform an extensive physical exam. A medical professional will go over your history in order to determine if there are any other conditions that could mimic ADHD.
In most cases, people who are diagnosed with ADHD get treatment right away. There are two types of drugs that treat the disorder: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed because they work more quickly and have a longer-lasting effect than non-stimulants. The kind of medication your therapist or psychiatrist prescribes for you will depend on the specific needs of your patient. It is best to discuss your options with them to make an informed decision about your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more prevalent among males and boys but cisgender females too can suffer from the symptoms. Due to the gender discrimination and the fact that many doctors aren't aware of the ways ADHD can affect women, it can be more difficult for women to receive a proper diagnosis as adults.
This online assessment was created with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on the DSM-5 criteria however, it is divided into women's symptoms. It cannot diagnose you however, it can serve as a starting point to start discussions with a medical professional or therapist regarding your symptoms.
Bring all your symptoms to the evaluator, along with any relevant documentation such as performance evaluations at work or copies of your previous tests. The evaluator will go through them to determine whether your symptoms match the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluation will also ask you questions about your life and routines to determine the severity of your symptoms.
For instance, the evaluator will need to know the length of time your ADHD symptoms have been present and how they've affected with your daily life. They'll also look over your medical history and conduct some tests to rule out any other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid issues.
Treatment
The management of ADHD in adulthood can be a challenge however, there are solutions available. Medicines are the most popular therapy. They can aid in regulating the brain's activity and alleviate symptoms however, they must be prescribed by medical professionals and taken under their supervision. In the majority of instances, stimulant medication is the first choice. However, non-stimulant medications may be used in certain cases. In addition to addressing ADHD, your doctor may suggest additional neuropsychological or psychological tests to assess the impact of co-existing conditions such as depression or anxiety.
Symptoms of ADHD can affect relationships and personal development. Women who suffer from ADHD often have a harder time reading social cues and recognizing body language, which can lead to poor communication skills. This can cause problems at workplace and at home. Women who suffer from ADHD also are more susceptible to mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety. It is estimated that 60% of adults with ADHD are still suffering from symptoms in adulthood. Women are also less likely than men to overcome the condition.
The most important step to getting a diagnosis and treating ADHD is to recognize. For add in adult women who suffer from ADHD, their ADHD symptoms become more manageable as they age. However, it is still difficult for them to receive the assistance and support they require. The good news is that current research on ADHD is focused on understanding the effects it has on women, and advances in diagnosis and treatment are being made.
In addition to medication, many women with ADHD benefit from a range of lifestyle changes and therapeutic strategies. For instance some women benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can help them learn how to organize their lives and establish structures to improve their life and productivity. Other treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings, while changing negative thought patterns to healthier ones. Women might also benefit from family therapy and marital counseling. They can learn how to communicate better with their spouses and how to resolve conflicts. Healthy sleep habits can help manage symptoms of ADHD such as difficulties sleeping and staying awake. This includes a regular bedtime routine and listening to soothing audiobooks or music and avoiding any electronic devices or screen time prior to going to going to bed.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women is underdiagnosed however, there are plenty of resources and a whole community of people who are willing to support you. Consult your primary care physician for recommendations, or contact your insurance company to find an ADHD specialist in your area. Additionally, it's always an excellent idea to search for an ADHD support group in your local area. These groups can help you find health care professionals who have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults, and can also provide a welcoming atmosphere.
Doctors may face difficulties diagnosing women and girls with ADHD because they typically present with different symptoms than boys and men. Some doctors might not be aware of the differences between them and make inaccurate diagnoses or use poor treatment strategies. This is especially applicable to hyperactive and impulsive ADHD symptoms.
You can take an online test for female ADHD in case you suspect that you may be suffering from the disorder. This free tool for screening was developed with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is based on DSM 5 and is a screening tool that is based on DSM 5 Criteria. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed up with an expert consultation. Please note that this piece employs the terms "male" and "female" to be referring to gender, but we are committed to using the sex identities that represent a person's affirmed gender identity.