ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) who have ADHD often conceal their symptoms. This can make it difficult to get an accurate diagnosis.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must have been present since childhood, technically prior to the age of 12. Doctors may interview close family members and friends.
This quiz will help you assess your symptoms against the symptoms of women suffering from ADHD. This test doesn't diagnose anything, but it can give your healthcare professional a better understanding of your requirements.
Symptoms
ADHD can affect adults as well. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive type of ADHD is more common in women than in males. The symptoms of this type are less apparent than those of the other two and usually manifest as internal signs such as inability to focus or a frequent daydreaming.
Women who are not attentive ADHD may experience lack of focus as well as poor time management and trouble paying attention at work or in class. They may also have difficulties keeping track of bills, appointments, or doing household chores. Women may compensate for these problems by working harder or trying to become more organized. This can backfire and cause frustration. Some women resort to unhealthy ways of coping, such as drug and alcohol use.
If you think you may have ADHD or other related disorders, you should speak to your doctor or a mental health professional. They can help you identify your symptoms and send you to a specialist if necessary. Your doctor will ask about your family history, your medical history, and any mental health issues that may be similar to symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders defines five ongoing signs that meet the criteria 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.
You must have been experiencing symptoms for at least six consecutive months before you can be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms are also negative to your life and affecting how well you function.
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 food items. You can also try mindfulness meditation to help calm your body and mind, control impulsiveness and distractibility, and promote restful sleep. You can also speak with your doctor about taking medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is a crucial step to managing the symptoms and living the life you want to live. It's not possible to manage it by yourself. A mental health professional is required to examine your symptoms and perform an extensive physical examination. A medical professional will also review your background to rule out other issues that may be similar to ADHD.
Many people suffering from ADHD are treated immediately after being diagnosed. There are two types of medications that treat the disorder: stimulants or non-stimulants. Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed because they are more effective and have a longer-lasting effect than non-stimulants. Your psychiatrist or therapist will prescribe an appropriate medication based on your needs. It is recommended to discuss your options with them to ensure they can make the most informed decision about your symptoms.
While ADHD is more common in males and females however, women who are cisgender can suffer from the same symptoms. Because of gender bias and due to the fact that a lot of doctors aren't aware of how ADHD affects women, it can be difficult for them as adults to receive the right diagnosis.
This assessment was designed with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is based on the DSM-5 criteria and has been broken down into symptoms for women. Although it is not able to diagnose you, you can use it to begin conversations with a therapist or medical doctor regarding your symptoms.
When you visit the evaluator, you must bring all your symptoms and any other documents that might be relevant, like performance evaluations from your job or old test results. The evaluator examines them to determine if they are in line with the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator might also ask you questions regarding your routine and lifestyle in order 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 interfered with your daily routine. They'll also look over your medical history and run several tests to rule out other ailments that could cause similar symptoms, like seizures or thyroid problems.
Treatment
The management of ADHD in adulthood can be challenging however, treatment options are available. Medications are the most common treatment. They can reduce symptoms and control brain activity, but they must be prescribed and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The stimulant medications are typically the first choice, but non-stimulants can also be utilized in certain situations. Your doctor may also suggest neuropsychological or psychological tests to determine the effect of coexisting conditions like depression or anxiety.
The symptoms of ADHD can interfere with relationships and personal development. Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty reading social cues or interpreting body language. This can lead to inadequate communication. This can lead to difficulties at workplace and at home. Women with ADHD also have a higher risk of 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 crucial step in finding a diagnosis and addressing ADHD is recognition. For a lot of adults, their ADHD symptoms are less severe as they age. However, it is still difficult to get the assistance and support they need. The good news is that current research on ADHD is focused on understanding its impacts in women, and advances in treatment and diagnosis are being made.
Many women suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from lifestyle changes and therapeutic methods in addition to medications. Women with ADHD benefit from working closely with an ADHD coach, who can help them develop strategies for organizing and creating structures to improve their productivity and life. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches women to accept their thoughts and feelings and replace negative thought patterns with healthier ones. Women who are pregnant might also benefit from family therapy and counseling for marital issues. They can learn to communicate better with their partners and resolve conflicts. A healthy sleeping routine can make a big difference in managing symptoms of ADHD, such as difficulty staying focused and falling to sleep at the end of the night. This means a regular bedtime routine, listening to relaxing music or reading an audiobook and staying away from electronics before going to bed.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women isn't well-diagnosed, there are many resources and a large community of people ready to assist you. If you're unsure where to start, ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or contact your insurance company for an ADHD specialist in your region. It's also an excellent idea to join an ADHD support group near you. These groups can help you find health care professionals who have experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD for adults, and they can also provide a supportive atmosphere.
Because add in adult women and girls often experience different symptoms of ADHD than men and boys, they can be difficult for doctors to identify. Some doctors may not be aware of or overlook the differences between them, leading to inaccurate diagnoses and poor treatment strategies. This is particularly applicable to hyperactive impulsive and inattentional ADHD symptoms.
If you suspect you be suffering from ADHD, you can take a female ADHD test online. This free tool for screening was created 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. This is not a diagnosis test and should be followed by a professional consultation. Please note that this piece uses the words "male" and "female" to be referring to gender, but we will use the sex identities that represent the person's affirmation of gender identity.