ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who are born female (AFAB) who suffer from ADHD often hide their symptoms. This makes it harder to get a diagnosis.
To be eligible for ADHD to be recognized, symptoms must have been present from the age of a child. This is technically before the age of 12 years old. Doctors are able to interview family members and friends.
This test will help you compare your symptoms with those of women with ADHD. This quiz can't diagnose however it will give your healthcare professional an understanding of your requirements.
Symptoms
Many people view ADHD as a disorder that affects children, but it can also be seen in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive type of ADHD is more frequent in women. The symptoms of this subtype are less apparent than those of the other two and they usually appear as internal symptoms like inability to focus or a frequent daydreaming.
Women who are not attentive ADHD can experience inattention and poor time management and difficulty paying attention at work or in class. They may also have difficulty keeping track of their bills and appointments or completing household chores. Women may compensate by working harder or being more organized. This can backfire and cause frustration. Some women resort unhealthy ways of coping, such as drinking or using drugs.
It is recommended to speak with your doctor or mental health professional if you think that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can help you identify symptoms and refer you when required to an expert. Your doctor will inquire about your family history, your medical history, as well as any mental health issues that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five ongoing symptoms to 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.
Your symptoms must have been present for at least six months before you can be diagnosed with either type of ADHD. The symptoms are also negative to your life and affecting your ability to function.
You can decrease the severity of your symptoms by following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing your intake of processed or sugary foods. You can also utilize mindfulness meditation to calm your mind and help you reduce impulsiveness, distractibility and promote restful sleep. You can also speak with your doctor about taking medication to treat the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD is a significant step toward managing symptoms and living the life you desire. However, it's not something you're able do by yourself. A mental health professional is needed to examine your symptoms and perform a thorough physical examination. A medical professional will go over your medical history to determine if there are any other conditions that could mimic ADHD.
In most cases, people who are diagnosed with ADHD receive treatment immediately. There are two main medications for the disorder: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are more well-known because they are faster acting and have a more lasting effect than non-stimulants. Your therapist or psychiatrist will prescribe a medication based on your requirements. It is best to discuss your options with them so they can make the most informed choice regarding your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more prevalent among boys and men but cisgender females too can be affected by its symptoms. Because of gender bias, and due to the fact that a lot of doctors are not aware of the way ADHD affects women, it is challenging for them as adults to receive the right diagnosis.
This online assessment was developed with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is based upon the DSM-5 criteria, but it is broken down to show how these symptoms look for women. Although women and adhd is not able to diagnose you however, it can be used to start an interview with a therapist or a medical doctor regarding your symptoms.
Bring all your symptoms to the evaluator with any relevant documents such as performance evaluations at work or copies of your previous tests. The evaluator reviews the records to determine if they are in line with the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator could also ask you questions regarding your lifestyle and habits to determine the severity of your symptoms.
The evaluator might want to know for instance how long you've been experiencing ADHD symptoms and how they've affected your life. They'll also review your medical history and run several tests to rule out any other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, for instance thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
Treatment
Managing ADHD in adulthood can be a challenge, but treatment options are available. The most commonly used treatment is medication. They can help reduce symptoms and regulate brain activity, but they must be prescribed and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. In the majority of instances, stimulant medications are the first choice. However, non-stimulant medicines may be used in certain cases. In addition to treating ADHD your doctor may recommend additional psychological or neuropsychological testing to examine the impact of co-existing disorders like anxiety or depression.
ADHD symptoms can affect the development of relationships and personal growth. Women who suffer from ADHD often have a harder in recognizing social cues as well as understanding body language, which can lead to inadequate communication skills. This can create difficulties at workplace and at home. Women with ADHD also are more likely to develop mood disorders like depression and anxiety. In fact, it's thought that 60% of people with ADHD have symptoms that last throughout their lives and women are less likely to outgrow their condition than men.
The most crucial step in getting a diagnosis and treating ADHD is recognizing. As we age, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. It is challenging for them to get the support and help they require. The positive side is that current research on ADHD is focused on understanding its impacts in women, and advancements in treatment and diagnosis are being developed.
In addition to medications as well, many women suffering from ADHD benefit from a variety of lifestyle modifications and strategies for treating. For instance some women benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can teach them organizational strategies and develop strategies to improve their lives and productivity. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavior therapy, which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings, while swapping negative thinking patterns for healthier ones. Women who are pregnant may also benefit from family therapy or counseling for marriage. They can develop the ability to communicate more effectively with their partners and resolve conflicts. Healthy sleeping habits can help with symptoms of ADHD such as difficulties sleeping and staying awake. This can be accomplished by having an established routine for bedtime and listening to soothing music or an audiobook and avoiding any electronic devices or screen time prior to going to sleeping.
Support
There are numerous resources available and a community of people who can help you, despite the fact ADHD is not a recognized condition in women. Consult your primary care doctor for recommendations, or call your insurance company to find an ADHD specialist near you. Additionally, it's always an excellent idea to search for an ADHD support group in your local area. Many of these groups can help you find health care specialists who are proficient in diagnosing and treating ADHD for adults and offer a welcoming environment.
Because women and girls often have different symptoms of ADHD than men and boys, they can be difficult for doctors to identify. Some physicians may misunderstand or overlook these differences, leading to incorrect diagnoses and inadequate treatment strategies. This is particularly true when it comes to hyperactive, impulsive, and inattentive symptoms of ADHD.
You can take a test online for female ADHD in case you suspect that you might be suffering from the disorder. This free screening tool is based on DSM 5 criteria and was created with the real experiences of ADHD women in mind. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed up with professional advice. Be aware that this article makes use of the terms "male" and "female" to refer to gender, but we are committed to using sex identities that reflect the person's affirmation of gender identity.
