Female ADHD Symptoms
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in girls since it manifests differently than boys. Adult women may have the inattentive type of ADHD or combined inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
They also tend to develop unhealthy ways of coping, such as excessive alcohol and substance abuse, which can mask ADHD symptoms and delay a proper diagnosis. signs of adhd are also susceptible to co-existing conditions like anxiety and depression.
Attention
Women with inattentive ADHD may find it difficult to keep up with their daily routines, schoolwork and jobs. They may forget appointments or leave things unattended around the home. They struggle to organize personal finances, record-keeping and household chores. They also tend to forget names and dates, and have memory problems. They also have difficulty being still for long periods and are unable to concentrate or follow instructions.
While the impulse control and hyperactivity are more prevalent in boys and men, the inattentive ADHD subtype is also seen in girls and women. In fact, it's believed that as high as 80 percent of ADHD sufferers are not attentive. To be able to receive a diagnosis, you must have at least five inattention symptoms that last more than six months.
The inattention-related symptoms of ADHD can be difficult to recognize than the other forms of ADHD because a lot of people don't consider them as part of a disorder or have different expectations for how a girl should behave. This is why teachers and parents are less likely to recommend ADHD assessments for girls than for boys.
A woman's ADHD symptoms may also change over time due to hormonal fluctuations. For example the symptoms of a woman's ADHD may get worse during the menstrual cycle, when she's pregnant, or when she enters menopausal.
These signs can have a negative impact on the self-esteem of women and their satisfaction with life. These issues can lead to feelings of self-doubt and shame, as they make it difficult to manage relationships, work and home tasks. Women who suffer from untreated ADHD are also susceptible to depression and anxiety. They may also engage in sexual behaviors that increase the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and other health issues. They may also be afflicted by the sensitivity to rejection since they have difficulty accepting negative or real reactions from others. They might avoid social situations or even isolate themselves because of it.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity
Hyperactivity and impulsivity can be the first signs of ADHD for women and girls. They might procrastinate more than usual, lose items or have trouble focusing. They can also become overwhelmed by the demands of their surroundings. They may also have difficulty getting comfortable or falling asleep and are more prone to mood fluctuations and anxiety. Symptoms like these can cause difficulties at school, at home and in their relationships.
Since symptoms of ADHD are more common in males and females, women and girls may be overlooked as a possible diagnosis. Teachers and health professionals typically don't suggest ADHD evaluations for female students or colleagues as often as they do for males. This can lead to an incorrect diagnosis and a delay in treatment.
This, combined with the tendency to hide their issues, can result in adults with ADHD suffer more than is normally reported. They may not be able to admit that they are having trouble concentrating at work or feel overwhelmed by household tasks. They may have difficulty making decisions at the supermarket or have trouble finding the time to relax or sleep.
This could negatively impact their self-esteem. Instead of addressing the root problem, they may adopt unhealthy ways of coping. This may include substance abuse or unhealthy eating habits. This could make the problem worse over time, and may prevent the woman from getting the help she requires.
It is also possible that because ADHD-linked behaviors are more acceptable in the social context of males and girls however, they could be repressed or concealed by girls and women who fear being rejected. For example, a girl with ADHD may exhibit excessive and impulsive behavior in order to avoid being shamed for not fitting in with the standards of her community or school.
These issues can lead to an environment of frustration and confusion for women suffering from ADHD. Families and friends, as well as educators must be aware of the struggles, as they may be signs of a disorder that is not being diagnosed. This condition is treatable by medication and therapy.
Emotional Problems
Women with ADHD often struggle more than men to manage their emotions. Their moods are more likely to fluctuate throughout the day due to hormonal changes. This can cause symptoms such as irritability and a feeling of inadequate. Women who suffer from ADHD also are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. These emotional issues can have serious consequences for relationships and career prospects.
Being diagnosed with ADHD can be a challenge for parents and children alike, but it's especially difficult for women. Women often feel embarrassed or ashamed about their ADHD and this may make it difficult for them to seek assistance. They may also attempt to hide their symptoms by implementing coping strategies like excessive drinking or substance abuse, which could cause the problem to get worse. Masking can make symptoms of adhd in adults for employers and teachers and women themselves, to recognize ADHD symptoms. It can also delay the diagnosis.
It's easier for a woman who suffers from ADHD to hide the signs of ADHD in her youth and adolescence than when she becomes an adult. signs of adhd from daily life and the pressures of society to excel in work and relationships can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. These struggles can lead to women with ADHD feeling like they're failing and low self-esteem. They can also cause chronic distress. The diagnosis of ADHD may be a life-changing moment for certain women. It can help them understand the root of their issues and allow them to feel more comfortable with themselves.
Many women suffering from ADHD are unable to find support at school or at work. They might be embarrassed to tell a supervisor or professor and worry that their choice is seen as an indication of weakness or incompetence. However, most supervisors and instructors are willing to make minor accommodations to allow those with ADHD to succeed in their jobs.
Women with 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 issues.
Co-Occurring Conditions
As women and girls become teenagers, they develop coping strategies that cover their ADHD symptoms, making it more difficult for others to notice. For example the girl may make an effort to dress and act more like her peers in order to avoid being a target for bullying or social rejection. She may compensate for her impulsive, unorganized behavior by working harder at school or at work or using productivity apps to complete her tasks. These and other strategies for coping can mask the presence of ADHD in women and delay her diagnosis as an adult.
Often, women and girls who suffer from ADHD are often diagnosed with mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, 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.
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are also at a higher risk of low self-esteem and are more likely to be afflicted by mood disorders that coexist. This is more so than men or boys. They could be misunderstood or dismissed as being temperamental or overly emotional, which adds to their anger.
ADHD symptoms can cause women to experience difficulties in their relationships. They are more likely to miss birthdays or misunderstand minor details which can cause conflict and confusion. They also may struggle to keep up with household chores, personal finances and other responsibilities of daily life. These challenges can cause them to feel overwhelmed and exhausted, which can fuel an unhealthy internal landscape of beliefs about their worth.
In clinical settings, gender bias also affects the number of referrals for ADHD evaluations. In one study, Ohan and Visser (2009) asked parents and teachers in a class to read vignettes describing children suffering from ADHD symptoms, and then rate how likely they were to recommend or find services for the child portrayed. The participants were more likely than girls to recommend services.
ADHD as with other conditions is a condition that can be severe and worsen at different times. For example, symptoms may be more prominent during the menstrual cycle of a woman or during pregnancy, or menopausal cycle. These changes can lead to difficulties with social functioning, relationships, and academic performance. They can also contribute to feelings of disappointment and despair.