Blog entry by Lucia Marie
ADHD Symptoms For Women
Girls and women with ADHD can experience a variety of symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and anxiety. These symptoms are more subtle in girls and women than they are in males and females. This could cause a misdiagnosis, or underdiagnosis.
Women may also suffer from symptoms that are exacerbated by hormonal changes, such as those during menstruation or pregnancy, or during perimenopausal periods (4 years before menopause). ADHD treatment that includes medication and lifestyle strategies can help improve relationships and set people up for success at work and home.
Inattentiveness
People who are inattentional adhd and asd symptoms are unable to keep track of their daily needs. They may forget to clean up the laundry or empty the trash cans and be unable to keep up with conversations. They may leave work documents on a desk or fail to take care of garbage or empty trash bins and struggle to keep pace during conversations. Their homes are usually cluttered with dishes that have not been cleaned. They're more prone to making mistakes that could have devastating consequences.
Females with inattentive ADHD also have more difficulty coping with academic and social rejection than other students. They may develop dysfunctional coping strategies such as self-harming behaviour and an inability to sustain friendships or gain access to peer support that can cause emotional distress and low mood. They may compensate for these issues by displaying a strong confidence that can lead to high-risk activities such as alcohol or drug use, prostitution and/or involvement in groups.
For adults, it may be difficult to determine ADHD because symptoms may change in time. It's important that you have a complete medical and mental evaluation so a qualified healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnose. They will consider the person's behavior in the past and now and past events, including childhood ones. They'll also be looking for any conditions that could cause similar symptoms. These include stress and anxiety mineral deficiencies hearing or vision problems sleep disorders, cognitive degeneration and learning disabilities, allergies and certain medications.
Treatment options for adults suffering from inattentive ADHD include psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and medication. The most commonly used ADHD medications are stimulants such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. They help improve concentration and decrease impulses. Non-stimulants like atomoxetine and Clonidine may be used when stimulants don't work or cause adverse effects. Therapy can also help adults with inattentive ADHD learn to modify their environment and develop coping techniques that will minimize the symptoms. They may benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which teaches them how to change negative thinking patterns and manage their emotions. A life coach or ADHD coach can be helpful for adults, assisting them to establish an established routine and set realistic expectations for themselves.
Hyperactivity
Women suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to be understood and may not realize the impact of their conditions on their lives. They may have a hard managing their time or staying well-organized, which can result in problems at work and school as well as in their private lives. They are also more likely to suffer from other conditions, such as depression or anxiety. These complications can have a direct impact 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 access treatment as they are less likely to receive a referral from their teachers or parents. The rating scales that are used to diagnose ADHD are still biased towards male behavior. Many women also have the ability to cover up their symptoms, which could cause them to go undiagnosed and undertreated.
A second challenge is that symptoms of adhd may change from day to day. This is especially true when there are hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy. In addition, hormones have an effect on the function of certain parts of the brain, including executive functions, sleep, verbal memory and concentration.
For instance, estrogen decreases after ovulation, and in the middle of menstrual cycles, while progesterone increases. This combination exacerbates ADHD symptoms dramatically.
Young women and girls who suffer from ADHD tend to be more impatient and impulsive, leading to more conflict in their relationships. They are more likely to engage in sexual activity with partners they don't know and are difficulty asserting themselves. They may also be at risk of being victims of sexual domestic violence and abuse due to the fact that they do not have access to contraception.
Girls and women with adhd can find effective strategies to cope that can help them manage their symptoms. They may also benefit from getting therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, to improve their understanding and control of their emotions and thoughts and to replace bad patterns of behavior with healthier ones. In certain instances, doctors may recommend couples therapy or family therapy to tackle the issues women and girls with adhd symptoms in adolescence are experiencing in their relationships.
Impulsivity
Women and girls who suffer from ADHD are more likely to struggle with controlling their emotions. This could manifest as mood swings, difficulties coping with criticism or stress and vulnerability to sexual assault and other types of victimization. They are also more likely to experience psychosexual issues, such as promiscuity, or a higher chance of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease. This means that women with ADHD may often be more likely to seek help later in life.
The same impulsive symptoms that boys and men with ADHD experience may also be observed in women and girls with the disorder, for example, being fidgety, always on the go, disruptive or restless, talking a lot and making quick decisions without considering them. These problems can also result in them becoming rude, unkind, and engaging in risky behavior. Women and girls who suffer from ADHD are also susceptible to nonsuicidal harming themselves (NSSI), which can include burning, cutting or scratching. This is especially prevalent in the adolescent stage.
While these signs can make it difficult for people to perform at work or school, many women and girls with ADHD are adept at hiding them. This can make them appear more conscientious or an idealist, and it can prevent people from noticing that they struggle to stay on task or are easily distracted. Some women who suffer from adhd types and symptoms develop unhealthy coping strategies like drinking alcohol or other drugs to mask their difficulties.
Rating scales used to diagnose ADHD tend to be biased towards male behavior and could result in under-diagnosis of girls or women. The symptoms might not be identified as being related to ADHD and may be internalized, resulting into feelings of shame and low self-esteem.
A diet high in vegetables and fruits, whole grains and healthy fats can boost mood and attention for adolescents and adults suffering from ADHD. Regular exercise can boost focus and concentration, as well as release neurotransmitters that feel good and reduce anxiety, stress and depression among those suffering from the disorder. A registered dietitian can help you make a plan that meets your individual requirements.
Anxiety
Anxiety is normal, but when it gets out of control, and interferes with your daily routine you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are characterised by unease, distress and excessive fear in normal or non-threatening situations. They are present when there is no reason to worry and may cause physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches or a fast heartbeat. Anxiety disorders are twice as common in women than males, and they can interfere with the work environment and personal relationships.
The gender can also affect how you manage your ADHD and anxiety. Women who suffer from adhd symptoms in women uk [head to Werite] and anxiety often experience mood swings, which can be misinterpreted as "overly emotional" by others. This can lead social problems such as strained relationships and unfulfilling careers. Mood swings can also make it harder to sleep enough and can make your anxiety symptoms worse.
Symptoms of anxiety and ADHD may be more noticeable during certain times of your life, depending on your gender, age and hormone levels. If you're an adult woman suffering from uncommon adhd symptoms your symptoms may fluctuate throughout the month, or during pregnancy and menopause due to hormonal changes. ADHD symptoms can also be more noticeable when menstruating or when you're under stress, such as a breakup, job loss, or major life events.
To reduce the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, try to fall asleep at the same time every night and establish a time when you get up. To improve your sleep, try listening to calming music prior to bed or meditating. Healthy eating can help reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms. Try removing foods that cause allergies or sensitivities. Consume lots of fruits and vegetables whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Exercise can also reduce symptoms of anxiety and ADHD. Try exercising for 30 minutes every day, or make use of a light therapy device to increase exposure to sunlight.