ADHD Symptoms in Women Test Positive
You're often unable to remember things and forget things, or lose them. Memory problems can cause problems with your academic and work performance.
To be considered to have ADHD, the symptoms must have been present prior to the age of 12, that lasted at least six months, and affected your daily life. The test will ask questions about a variety of symptoms related to inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
Inattentive Signs and symptoms
Women who aren't attentive ADHD symptoms typically have difficulty staying organized and remembering details. They might forget appointments or details they have already been told. They might also have difficulty staying concentrate during college lectures or business meetings. They may also have trouble keeping their household chores in order or paying bills.
Unlike hyperactive/impulsive-type ADHD, inattentive symptoms aren't as noticeable and can make it harder for girls and women to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the stigma of having ADHD can lead to people assuming that women don't suffer from the same issues like men and boys, and therefore shouldn't be assessed or treated. This makes it more difficult for educators and healthcare professionals to recognize and diagnose women and girls who suffer from ADHD.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms are also harder for people to recognize in women and girls because they are more likely to be internalized. Inattentive ADHD can make it difficult for women to maintain healthy work and personal relationships. Their inattention and forgetfulness are frequently perceived by others as chaotic. They may attempt to compensate by overworking, relying on productivity apps or becoming more in control of their relationships.
The hormonal fluctuations that women experience throughout their lives can also impact ADHD symptoms. These changes are most pronounced during the luteal phase during breastfeeding, pregnancy and the years leading up menopausal symptoms which is when estrogen levels decrease. The research is ongoing to determine how these hormonal changes could affect the person's ADHD symptoms and the medications they take.
It is important to understand that gender refers to the person's biological makeup, including their hormonal makeup, chromosomal makeup and anatomy, whereas sex refers to a person's internal sense of self as a man, woman or nonbinary regardless of their physical anatomy. Verywell Health acknowledges that sex is a thorny subject and that some people identify as neither male nor female or as an intersex person. As a result, Verywell Health does not define the sex of its readers. For more information, go to the Verywell Health sex and age FAQ.
Hyperactive Signs and symptoms
Generally speaking, women who suffer from ADHD are not as afflicted with the same amount of hyperactive symptoms that men do. As a result, it can be more difficult for them to be diagnosed and treated. This does not mean, however that ADHD is not present in women. Actually, it's actually the reverse The number of ADHD diagnoses for women has risen since 2020.
In childhood, boys have a higher chance of being diagnosed ADHD than girls. But as they grow up, the numbers get even. Adults who suffer from ADHD may still have difficulty understanding their condition, since the symptoms may change over time and be confused with other conditions.
For instance, some people with ADHD are unable to sleep at the night. This issue can be caused due to stress, hormone fluctuations, or medication used to treat other conditions. It can also be made more difficult by eating a heavy meal or drinking alcohol prior to bedtime. It is important to remember that getting a good sleep is a key part of managing ADHD in adults. Implementing healthy sleeping habits, such as establishing an established routine and using blankets with weights, can help.
Problems with emotions can be particularly difficult for women suffering from ADHD, who are more susceptible to mood swings. This can lead to them being ignored or misunderstood by others, and can result in relationship problems. They may also be more susceptible to disorders like depression, which can make focusing and retaining information difficult.
It is vital to speak with a health professional to understand more about ADHD. This includes a complete assessment and diagnosis. There are three subtypes of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and mixed. To be diagnosed with ADHD, one needs to show at minimum six symptoms in each category over a time period of six months. Inattention ADHD symptoms are usually more internal, such as having a tendency to daydream or be easily distracted. Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms are more visible and include fidgeting, squirming in a chair or running around in situations where remaining seated is expected. Mixed ADHD is the most common and can cause both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.
Instinctive Symptoms
Women who suffer from hyperactive ADHD have difficulty in social situations. They can be extremely talkative and unrelated topics during conversations, and aren't able to discern body language or social cues. They also may have trouble managing their emotions, which makes them more susceptible to anger or rage. This makes it difficult for them to interact with others and work in a group environment. Women who suffer from an impulsive ADHD also tend to be sexually active earlier in their age, which can result in unwanted pregnancies and STIs.
adhd women uk with ADHD frequently experience mood fluctuations. Many of them find that their symptoms get worse during certain times of month or when they are experiencing major life events, like divorce or the loss of a loved one. Stereotyping about gender and other factors can cause women with impulsive ADHD to be misunderstood and dismissed as "overly emotional."
Women are also better at hiding their ADHD symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to receive a diagnosis or treatment. adhd in women uk believe this is due to the fact that females develop coping mechanisms and strategies that help them to conceal their ADHD. This might involve adjusting their schedules or setting phone reminders for appointments, using medication or self-care techniques to manage their symptoms, or changing their behavior to conform to society's expectations.
Additionally, women suffering from ADHD may have trouble getting enough sleep and this can affect their concentration and impulsivity. Make sure you have a routine for bedtime. Engage in calming activities and avoid watching TV before going to bed. Adding exercise to your daily routine could be beneficial, as it releases neurotransmitters that improve your mood and increase focus.
It's important that you consult a mental health professional to determine in the event that you suspect you be suffering from ADHD. This is the only way to know for sure if you have ADHD, and the severity of your symptoms. If you're ready to take the next step to get help, our Find a Therapist resource can be of assistance.
Social symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to cope with their symptoms in social situations. They may feel that others are less impressed because they do not seem to pay attention, listen or follow through. This can lead to misunderstandings and anger in relationships, both personal and professional.
Women may also have a tough time getting diagnosed with ADHD, as they tend to hide their symptoms. This is a way to comply with social expectations and norms, and to manage daily tasks. This can include healthy methods of coping, such the use of a planner or setting reminders on your phone. However, it can also lead to unhealthy habits, like frequent fidgeting and avoiding meals.
It can also be harder to recognize ADHD symptoms in adult women since they are often mistaken for other conditions, such as depression or anxiety. Anxiety and ADHD share a number of typical symptoms, including being unable to concentrate, feeling anxious or having difficulty sleeping. However, the forgetfulness, disorganization and impulsivity of ADHD are not usually present with anxiety.
The impulsivity and hyperactivity of ADHD can also be confused with a mood disorder especially in adults. Women who have an history of depression, bipolar disorder or other mood disorders can be more likely to suffer from ADHD. It is crucial to have a medical expert you trust to examine your symptoms in order to establish a precise diagnosis.
Adult women suffering from ADHD can improve their quality of life by acquiring coping skills and receiving treatment. They may benefit from counseling to improve their emotional regulation, or even coaching from a professional who will teach them behavioral strategies and assist them in setting goals. They may also be prescribed medication to control their ADHD symptoms but only with a doctor's prescription. Stimulant medications are more commonly prescribed to people suffering from ADHD however, alternatives that are not stimulant are just as effective in certain cases.