ADHD in Women - Why Gender Bias and Outdated Criteria May Play a Role
Women are often underdiagnosed and are not treated for ADHD. Gender biases and outdated criteria could be the cause.
Doctors conduct a patient interview and may ask those who know the patient well -- such as spouses, siblings, or even friends to look into the symptoms.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can be different in different periods, such as during menstrual periods or during pregnancy, as well as menopausal. However, they can interfere with relationships, work and life in general.
Symptoms
Women and those who are assigned female at birth (AFAB) are often not diagnosed or are misdiagnosed with ADHD. This can be frustrating and cause feelings of powerlessness. But, it's important to keep in mind that these problems are not your fault and don't have anything to do with the way you conduct yourself or the you're like.
ADHD symptoms in women can be varied, but the most common ones are forgetfulness, disorganization and difficulty staying focused. You may also have trouble keeping track of your tasks, be in trouble at school or at work, feel restless or anxious constantly or have issues managing your finances or maintaining your relationships. In addition, many women suffer from emotional distress, like mood swings and a negative self-image. Some women engage in non-suicidal actions of self-injury such as burning or cutting themselves, or are unable to sleep.
It's also important to note that the symptoms of ADHD in women may differ at different times in the woman's life due hormonal changes. Women who suffer from ADHD might experience more severe symptoms during their menstrual cycle or pregnancy, and during menopausal. Some societal beliefs regarding gender and behavior could determine if symptoms are spotted. For adhd symptoms in women test with ADHD or impulsive behavior, your actions or mood swings could be interpreted as symptoms of depression, while your forgetfulness and lack of organization could be interpreted as a sign of "female traits."
Although these issues can be frustrating There are ways to get the help and support you need. It's always an ideal idea to begin with your primary physician and ask them to refer you to an expert in mental health to conduct an evaluation. Some women suffering from ADHD can benefit from learning how to improve their organization skills and create better coping strategies. You can also talk to an expert in career counseling or join an online support group.
It is important to remember that the treatment of ADHD in women can be similar to that of men and may include stimulants. It is also recommended to discuss with your doctor about any issues that may be causing the problem, such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder.
Diagnosis
It can be difficult to be diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. You might have not noticed your symptoms in childhood or learned to mask them. Women can also struggle to be diagnosed due to stereotypes about gender. Women who suffer from ADHD might be incorrectly identified as "high-functioning" or as having a "mood disorder."
To receive a diagnosis of ADHD you must meet certain criteria. The first requirement is to have five ongoing symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity that interfere with work or school life. It's also important to have the history of these symptoms that began before you were 12. The other requirement is that you have significant issues triggered by the symptoms in two settings like working or at home. The symptoms must also be present for at least six months in order to be considered a diagnosis.
It is also necessary to undergo a physical exam to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid problems. You'll likely take psychological tests, too like an assessment of your behavior or a scale. The evaluator will look at your past and ask you questions about how you've handled your issues in the past. They may also request to talk with people who know you well, like close friends and family members. The evaluator's findings will be used to write the report you will be able to go through.
In some instances, the evaluator will decide that you don't have ADHD. They may say that your symptoms, while minor or specific, don't hinder your everyday functioning. They could rule out the condition, when you have other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, that may cause similar symptoms.
If you're looking for an expert to test your symptoms for ADHD Ask your primary health care provider for recommendations. They can refer you to a psychiatrist or a psychologist who is a specialist in ADHD. You can also call your insurance company, or local universities, to locate a professional who treats ADHD adults. You can also join an ADHD support group and ask members for recommendations.
Treatment
Although ADHD is more common in males and females, it also affects a large number of women. It is harder for women to receive treatment since they tend to hide their symptoms. The symptoms range from forgetting appointments to not being able work in noisy or busy environments.
Women with ADHD might feel pressured to live up to society's expectations. They could be expected to care for their children, juggle many roles in the workplace and maintain a stable relationship. This can be a challenge for those who have hyperactive, impulsive or combination symptoms. It is crucial for women suffering from these issues to get regular psychiatric examinations and medication treatment.
Stimulant drugs are usually the first option for treating ADHD in adults. These include methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts (Adderall) and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). Non-stimulant medicines can be substituted for stimulants, such as atomoxetine(Strattera),guanfacine(Intuniv) and viloxazine(Kapvay). These medications should be closely monitored by a physician to ensure that the correct dosage is being administered.
In addition to medication, there are a variety of lifestyle options that can help people with ADHD manage their symptoms. Exercise as well as healthy eating, sleeping hygiene, and other lifestyle strategies can aid. Techniques for managing stress including adjustments to work and at home and stress management techniques could be beneficial. Psychotherapy can assist some women with their symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. These conditions are often co-occurring with ADHD.
Based on your specific situation A combination of treatments could be the best option for you. When creating a treatment plan the doctor will take into account factors like age, lifestyle and severity of symptoms. They will also take into consideration any other health issues you might have, and whether there are any drug side effects or interactions to be aware of. They will also take into account the effects of hormone fluctuations during your menstrual cycle or pregnancy, perimenopause, perimenopausal and menopausal. This will enable them to determine the appropriate type and dosage of medication for you. Medicines can help improve your mood and your ability to concentrate.
Support
Women with ADHD are often overlooked. ADHD research is mostly focused on men and boys. This could cause healthcare providers and educators to miss symptoms of women and girls. Also, women are less able than men to screening tools and treatments. Fortunately, that is changing. There are more resources available for women with ADHD, and they are better aware of their symptoms.
ADHD in women can result in difficulties with relationships, work and school performance, as well as self-esteem. It can also cause women to use drugs or unhealthy strategies for coping like binge eating. The symptoms can also change during different stages of life. Hormonal fluctuations, for instance, can influence the severity of symptoms. The mood swings could be interpreted as depression and anxiety by other people, which could further delay an accurate diagnosis.
A new online tool for screening for adult ADHD has been created by the World Health Organization. This screening tool was designed specifically for women and uses real-life experiences to generate questions which a healthcare professional is able to answer. It will help you determine the most common ADHD symptoms among women and provides information that can be shared with a doctor.
The test requires a person to answer 18 questions that are broken down by the four core symptoms of ADHD: inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and two other symptom areas. Based on your answers, a score will be calculated that indicates the severity of symptoms. The tool for screening can be completed online and is free. It is important to remember that it cannot replace a full evaluation of your condition and should only be utilized in conjunction with an ADHD consultation.
When women suffering from ADHD seek treatment, they often experience a change in their lives that improves dramatically. The right treatments can improve relationships, set them up to be successful at work and school and help them to understand themselves better. Support systems are also essential. This can be done by joining a support network or finding a coach with experience working with women.