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Girls and women with ADHD can experience a variety of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and anxiety. Yet these symptoms may be less evident than those of men and boys and can result in underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis.
Women may have symptoms that are aggravated by hormonal fluctuations, like those during menstruation or pregnancy, or during perimenopausal periods (4 years before menopause). ADHD treatment that includes strategies for lifestyle and medication can improve relationships and assist people to succeed at home and at work.
Inattentiveness
Everyone misplaces their keys or forgets to do an assignment occasionally, but people who suffer from inattention ADHD aren't able to keep their focus on the things they require for everyday life. They may forget to pick up their laundry or empty the trash bins. They also have trouble in keeping up with conversations. Their homes are often cluttered and unwashed. They are prone to make mistakes that are not considered to be correct and could have costly consequences.
Inattentive ADHD in females is also associated with a higher difficulty coping with social rejection and academic underachievement compared to their peers. They may develop dysfunctional ways of coping, such as self-harming behaviors and a lack list of adhd symptoms ability to keep friendships or gain access to peer support. This can lead to emotional distress and a low mood. They may attempt to compensate for these difficulties by developing a strong self-confidence and may cause them to engage in high risk activities such as drug and alcohol use, promiscuity and/or gang participation.
For adults, it may be difficult to identify ADHD because symptoms may change as time. It is important to undergo a thorough mental and medical health assessment so that a qualified health professional can make an accurate diagnosis. They'll take into account the patient's present and past behavior, as well as childhood experiences. They'll also check for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including anxiety and stress, mineral deficiency, hearing and vision issues, sleep disorders, cognitive decline, learning disabilities and allergies, as well as certain medications.
Treatment options for adults with inattentive ADHD include changes in lifestyle, psychotherapy and medication. The most common ADHD medications are stimulants like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. They improve focus and decrease impulses. Nonstimulants, such as atomoxetine and clonidine, can be used when stimulants do not help or cause side negative effects. Therapy can also help adults with inattentive ADHD develop a better understanding of their environment and develop coping techniques that will minimize their symptoms. They can also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a form of therapy that teaches you how to manage emotions and how to reframe negative thoughts. Adults are also able to benefit from an individual life coach or ADHD Coach, who will help them set up a schedule and realistic expectations.
Hyperactivity
Women suffering from ADHD often struggle to feel understood, and they may struggle to comprehend the impact that their symptoms have on their life. They may have difficulty to remain focused or organized and this can lead to problems at work and school and in their personal lives. They are also more likely to suffer from other health issues, like depression or anxiety. These complications can have a direct influence on their symptoms and how they manage them.
Because of the way ADHD affects women and girls in particular, they can develop low self-esteem and have difficulty maintaining friendships. It is also more difficult for them to get treatment as they are less likely to receive an appointment from their teachers or parents. The rating scales that are used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behavior. Many women hide their symptoms which can lead to them not being diagnosed and therefore not receiving treatment.
Another challenge is that the symptoms of adhd can differ from day to day, especially during hormonal changes such as the menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Hormones also have an influence on specific areas of the brain, such as executive functions, verbal memory, sleep and concentration.
For instance, estrogen levels decrease after ovulation and during the middle of the menstrual cycle, while progesterone increases. This combination can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
Girls and young women who suffer from ADHD might be more impulsive, impatient and prone to a conflict in their relationships. They are more likely to engage in sexual activities with partners they don't know and have a hard time asserting their rights. They can also be at risk of being victims of sexual assault and domestic violence because they may not have a means of contraception.
Girls and women suffering from adhd can find effective coping strategies that can help them manage their symptoms. They can also benefit by getting therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps them better understand and manage their thoughts and emotions and to replace harmful patterns of behavior with healthier ones. In some cases doctors may suggest couples therapy or family therapy to address the difficulties that girls and women with ADHD are experiencing in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Women and girls who suffer from ADHD are more likely to have difficulty managing their emotions. This can manifest as mood swings, issues coping with criticism or stress and vulnerability to sexual assault and other forms of victimization. They are also more likely to experience sexual issues, including sexual promiscuity or a greater risk of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted illness. This means that females with ADHD may often be more likely to seek help as they grow older.
Women and girls with ADHD might exhibit the same behavior patterns that men and boys. They can be unfocused or restless, and always on the move. They also talk a lot and make rapid decisions. These problems can also cause them to be rude, unkind, and engaging in risky behaviours. Additionally, certain girls and women who suffer from ADHD may be susceptible to non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) which includes cutting or burning particularly during the adolescent stage.
While these signs can make it difficult to perform at work or school, many women and girls who suffer from ADHD are skilled at masking their symptoms. This can make them appear more conscientious or a perfectionist, and it could also deter others from noticing they have trouble staying on task or are easily distracted. Women who suffer from ADHD also develop unhealthy coping strategies which include the use of drugs or alcohol to disguise their issues.
The scales used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behaviors, which may cause a misdiagnosis for women or girls. The symptoms of ADHD may not be recognized and internalized. This can cause feelings of shame or low self-esteem.
For adults and teens with adhd and asd symptoms, a diet rich in vegetables, fruits whole grains healthy fats, protein and healthy fats can improve attention deficit hyperactivity disorder adhd symptoms and mood. Regular exercise can also boost focus and concentration and release feel-good neurotransmitters that reduce stress, anxiety and depression among those suffering from the disorder. A registered dietitian can help create a plan for your specific requirements.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a normal human emotion however, when it gets out of hand and affects your daily activities you could be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are characterized by a sense of unease, discomfort and a high level of fear in normal or benign situations. They are present when there is no reason to be concerned, and result in physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, or rapid heartbeat. Anxiety disorders are twice as prevalent in women than males, and they can interfere with work and personal relationships.
Gender can also play an important role in how you adhd social symptoms and anxiety are treated. Women who suffer from ADHD and anxiety are often afflicted with mood swings, which can be misinterpreted as "overly emotional" by other people. This can cause social issues, such as broken relationships and unfulfilling careers. Mood swings can also make it harder to get enough sleep which can cause anxiety symptoms worse.
The symptoms of anxiety and ADHD can be more obvious at certain times in your life, based on your gender, age and hormone levels. If you are an adult woman with minor adhd symptoms your symptoms may fluctuate during the month, or during menopausal and pregnancy, due to hormonal changes. ADHD symptoms can also be more apparent during menstrual cycles, or during times of stress like the breakup of a relationship or job loss major life events.
To reduce the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, try to sleep at the same time each night and establish a time when you get up. Try listening to calming music or meditative before going to bed, and reduce screen time to improve your sleep quality. Eating healthfully can also reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms, so try eliminating foods that trigger sensitivities or allergies. Make sure you eat plenty of vegetables and fruits whole grains, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats and moderate amounts of carbohydrates. Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety. Try to exercise for 30 minutes a day or make use of a light therapy device to increase exposure to sunlight.