ADHD in Women Adults
Women who suffer from ADHD face a number of difficulties. They may find it difficult to cope with everyday tasks, manage problems with relationships and meet social expectations. They may also have trouble staying focused at work or avoiding appointments.
A recent study examined the experiences of women diagnosed with ADHD as adults. It found that while diagnosis provided a relief and helped make sense of past struggles but it was also often bittersweet.
Getting a Diagnosis
It could be the first step towards understanding and managing symptoms when you're diagnosed with ADHD. It can help you to put a name on your issues and realize that they're something you can manage and not cause you "weird."
Women are better at hiding their symptoms, so it can be difficult for them to recognize themselves as having ADHD. They may have become accustomed to hiding their inattention by working late or by using tools such as planners and smartphones to keep track of their daily tasks. They might also be able disguise their impulsivity through quick actions to advance a project at work or by uttering comments in conversations without thinking.
It's important to speak to a mental healthcare professional who has experience working with adults in order to establish an assessment. It's also helpful to have a strong family and friends to guide you through the process. A mental health professional or health care provider might utilize standardized scales for behavior or ADHD symptoms checklists to examine adult symptoms and determine if they satisfy the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. A physical exam and medical history are usually part of a diagnostic evaluation for adults. Psychological tests are used to evaluate executive function, working memory (abilities such as decision-making and planning) spatial and visual skills (related to spatiality), reasoning and reasoning abilities.
If not treated, ADHD can lead to various challenges in women's lives. Certain of these are related to work, such as having trouble staying on track, following corporate guidelines, or meeting deadlines, and may lead to feelings of low self-esteem and confidence. Women with ADHD are more likely to be afflicted with co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression.
Many people who go undiagnosed for ADHD as adults regret the years they spent struggling and not knowing why. They may have had issues with their relationships, at work or under financial stress. Matlen says that people are often forced to accept their past and perform grief work after receiving a diagnosis. But, she adds that once the diagnosis is made and they are able to move on with new hope for an improved future.
Treatment Options
Women can be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. They can also receive the support they need to manage their symptoms in the workplace, at school and at home.
The most important thing is to identify the signs, which include difficulty organizing and managing time and work and forgetfulness; difficulties in following guidelines or rules; difficulties getting along with colleagues, classmates or teachers and impulsive behavior. These issues can cause serious issues with work and school performance, relationships, and self-esteem.
Certain experts say that the diagnosis of ADHD in girls and women is not widely reported because they are more adept at hiding their symptoms than men or boys. They are also less likely to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive or mixed subtypes of the disorder. These symptoms are more evident for men and boys. This makes them more likely to be diagnosed.
Counseling or therapy can help those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms as well as behavioral strategies. These treatments can help with depression and anxiety, among other symptoms. Certain kinds of therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach you specific skills to overcome negative thoughts that can lead to problems in your life.
Other therapies, such as meditation, yoga and regular exercise, can improve brain function by helping you to calm down and focus your thoughts. They can also increase your energy and help you control mood disorders. Getting enough sleep and eating an appropriate diet can help alleviate symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from asking their co-workers or supervisors to make accommodations. They may ask for more detailed explanations or additional time for assignments.
The use of medications can also be beneficial in treating ADHD. Stimulant medication is usually the first line of treatment, however, nonstimulant medications may also be used.
Some adults suffering from ADHD are able to manage their symptoms through changes in their lifestyle, rest and technology such as ADHD-assisting smartphone apps. They should also visit their doctor regularly and take any prescribed medication. They might also be able to take part in a clinical trial, which is a research study that explores new ways to prevent or treat ailments and diseases.
Support Groups
Women often feel lonely when they are struggling to cope with the complexities of their ADHD. Support groups can help. Some organizations provide forums where people can connect online and discuss their experiences. Some of these groups might not be moderated by mental health professionals, but they could provide a safe space to express frustrations and discuss ideas with others. Some of these support groups also have resources and suggestions for dealing with ADHD.
According to one study, females whose symptoms show primarily as inattentional behavior are less likely to be recognized and referred for evaluation as males who exhibit similar symptoms. As a result, they are more likely to remain undiagnosed and experience impairment. Additionally that many women have mastered to cover up their symptoms, using strategies such as phone reminders and schedules for the day, to meet societal expectations. These tools can also trigger stress and anxiety.
It is important for women to find an expert doctor who is aware of the ways in which gender and ADHD interact. In addition, an experienced therapist can help women recognize the ways in which they might be masking their symptoms and internalizing their difficulties. This way, they can better discern areas of strength and self-efficacy.
A diagnosis of ADHD could have a positive impact on the way women view themselves. A number of women interviewed in the study said that they felt relieved after receiving an diagnosis. They were able to accept their own struggles, and felt more confident about their abilities. In addition, knowing they weren't alone allowed them to accept their past mistakes and make positive changes to their lives.
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be life-altering. The symptoms can affect their careers, relationships and daily activities. They may underestimate the amount of time it will take to complete a task or forget appointments. They might have trouble focusing at work or in school and might have trouble managing their finances. Some of these women have trouble maintaining a relationship or marriage and others are suffering from low self-esteem.
Medication
Women with undiagnosed ADHD have a difficult time dealing with everyday life. They may have trouble managing their finances, keeping their homes organized or maintaining a healthy relationship with their partner. The symptoms can also affect work and academic performance. If ADHD is not treated, it can negatively impact women's self-esteem and ability to feel successful both in her personal life and career.
Many women with ADHD are not diagnosed because their symptoms are more inattentive than hyperactive or indecisive. This is probably due to outdated diagnostic criteria and assumptions, as well as an inadvertent understanding that female ADHD symptoms can be different from those seen in both boys and men. It is important to keep in mind that some people have co-occurring illnesses like depression, anxiety or physical ailments such as sleep disorders, tics and fibromyalgia. These conditions can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD as an adult is a transformative experience that can improve the quality of life of women. It can also help her restore her sense of self-worth, as she will know that her challenges are not due to her.
adhd in adults women is generally the first option for adults with ADHD. Certain adults may not be able stimulants. For those who aren't able to take stimulants, there are other drugs like antidepressants or atomoxetine. You should tell your doctor about any supplements or medications you are taking as they may interact with certain medications.
A therapist or healthcare professional can teach you behavioral strategies to improve productivity and organization and manage symptoms. They can also work with you to tackle any emotional issues that might be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. Some people with ADHD find benefit from working with a life coach or career coach, because they can help them develop strategies for managing daily tasks and setting and meeting goals.
Although it is true that girls and women are more undiagnosed than their male counterparts, there are increasing efforts to understand and address the differences in diagnosis and treatment. This includes ensuring that all children are screened for ADHD and that women and girls with ADHD receive accurate diagnoses.