Female ADHD Symptoms
Females who have ADHD often go undiagnosed as children due to the fact that the disorder manifests differently in girls than it does in boys. Adult women may have the inattentive type of ADHD or combined inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
They also have a tendency to develop unhealthy coping strategies, such as excessive alcohol consumption and drug abuse, which mask ADHD symptoms and delay the diagnosis. The co-occurring conditions, like anxiety and depression, are also common in these people.
Attention
Women who aren't attentive ADHD may have difficulty to keep up with their daily routines, schoolwork or jobs. They might miss appointments or leave things in the house unattended. They struggle to manage their personal financial records, household chores. It's also normal for women to experience trouble with memory and forgetfulness, which makes it difficult to remember names or dates. They also have a difficult time staying still for long periods of time, and they have trouble staying focused or following instructions.
While hyperactivity and impulsivity are more often associated with boys and men but the subtype of inattention ADHD is equally prevalent in girls and women. In fact, it's believed that as high as 80 percent of ADHD sufferers are inattentive. To be eligible for a diagnosis, you must show at least five continuous inattention symptoms that last more than six months.
The inattention-related symptoms of ADHD can be harder to spot than other forms of ADHD because many people don't see them as being a disorder or have different expectations for how a girl should behave. Teachers and parents are therefore less likely to suggest ADHD testing for girls than boys.
Additionally, signs and symptoms of adhd in adults that ADHD affects women is different at different times of her life due to hormonal changes. For example women's symptoms could be more severe during the menstrual cycle, if she is pregnant or when she enters menopause.
These signs can have a profound impact on a woman's self-esteem and overall satisfaction. These symptoms can cause feelings of guilt and low self-esteem and make it hard to manage relationships, work and home chores. Women with untreated ADHD are also susceptible to anxiety and depression. They may also engage in sexual activities which can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy and other health issues. They may also experience the sensitivity to rejection since they have difficulty accepting negative responses from others. They may avoid social interactions or even isolate themselves due to this.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity
In many cases, hyperactivity and impulsivity are the first signs of ADHD in women and girls. They might procrastinate more and lose things, or have difficulty concentrating. They may also become overwhelmed by the demands of their surroundings. They may also have trouble sleeping or relaxing, and could be more prone to mood swings and anxiety. These signs can cause issues at home, school and in relationships.
Girls and women are often not considered for diagnosis of ADHD because the symptoms are more prevalent for both genders. Healthcare providers and teachers often don't suggest ADHD assessments for female students or colleagues as frequently as they do for male ones. This can lead to an incorrect diagnosis and an inability to treat.
This, combined with the tendency to hide their problems, could make it clear that people with ADHD suffer more than is typically reported. They may not be able to admit that they struggle to concentrate at work or are overwhelmed by household tasks. They might have trouble making choices at the shop or struggle to sleep or relax.
This could negatively impact their self-esteem. Instead of addressing the underlying issue, they could develop unhealthy ways to cope. This may include substance abuse and poor eating habits. This could make the issue worse over time, and hinder the woman from seeking help that could change her life in a significant way.
It is also possible because ADHD-linked behaviors are more socially acceptable for males and females, they may be suppressed or hidden by girls and women who are worried about being rejected. For instance, a child who suffers from ADHD might display excessive and impulsive behavior in order to avoid being shamed for not fitting in with the norms of her community or school.
Ultimately, these factors can result in a cycle of confusion and frustration for women suffering from ADHD. It is essential for family members, friends and educators to recognize these struggles for women and girls, because they could be a sign of a disorder that has not been diagnosed and must be treated through therapy and medication management.
Emotional Difficulties
Women with ADHD often have a harder time than men to control their emotions. Their moods are more likely fluctuate as a result of hormonal fluctuations throughout the day, which may increase symptoms such as anger and feelings of feeling inadequate. Women with ADHD also are more prone to depression and anxiety. These emotional difficulties may have a significant impact on careers and relationships.
Having ADHD can be a challenge for both parents and children however, it is particularly challenging for women. Women often feel shy or embarrassed about their ADHD, and this can make it difficult for them to seek assistance. They may also attempt to hide their symptoms through strategies to cope, such as drinking excessively or substance abuse, which could cause the problem to get worse. Masking can make it difficult for employers and teachers, as well as women themselves, to identify ADHD symptoms. It may also delay diagnosis.
A woman suffering from ADHD might be able to successfully hide her symptoms during her adolescence and youth however, it can be more difficult when she's an adult. The pressures of daily life, along with the expectations from society to excel in work and relationships, can cause ADHD symptoms. These issues can leave women suffering from ADHD feeling like they're failing and low self-esteem. They can also cause ongoing stress. A diagnosis of ADHD could be a life-changing moment for some women. It can help them understand the root of their struggles and allow them to feel more comfortable with themselves.
Many women suffering from ADHD have a difficult time trying to receive help at school or work. They may feel embarrassed to tell an instructor or supervisor and worry that their accommodation is seen as an indication of weakness or incompetence. However, the majority of instructors and supervisors will make small adjustments to enable those with ADHD to perform their job.
Women suffering from ADHD who are seeking supportive peers can also benefit by joining online support groups. These groups give members the an opportunity to share stories and discuss women's ADHD challenges.
Co-Occurring conditions
As women and girls grow up, they can develop coping mechanisms that mask their ADHD symptoms, making it more difficult for others to detect. For example girls may attempt to dress and act like her peers to ward off the attention of bullies or social rejection. In addition, she might take advantage of impulsive and unorganized behavior by putting in more effort at school or work or relying on productivity apps to get her tasks accomplished. These and other coping strategies can mask the presence ADHD in a female and delay her adult diagnosis.
Most often, girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often diagnosed with other mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety, before they are given a diagnosis for the disorder. These other conditions can conceal the presence and signs of ADHD. They can also complicate treatment.
Women and girls with ADHD are also more likely to be afflicted by low self-esteem, and coexisting mood disorders. They can be misunderstood and dismissed as overly emotional or temperamental, which further increases their feelings of discontent.
Additionally many women experience difficulties in their relationships due to ADHD symptoms. They tend to forget birthdays or err on minor details, which can lead to conflicts and confusion. They also might be struggling to manage household chores, personal finances and other daily responsibilities. These difficulties can make them feel exhausted and overwhelmed which can create an internal chaos of beliefs about their worth.
The presence of gender bias in clinical settings can affect the frequency at which girls and women are being referred to receive an ADHD evaluation. In one study, Ohan and Visser (2009) asked parents and teachers to read vignettes that described children with ADHD symptoms. They then evaluated their likelihood to recommend or seek help for the child in the. They found that the respondents were more likely to recommend services for boys than for girls.
ADHD as with other conditions is a condition that can be severe and worsen at different times. For instance, symptoms could be more severe during the menstrual cycle of a woman or during pregnancy or menopause. These changes can lead to issues with social functioning, relationships and academic performance, and result in feelings of anger and failure.