ADHD Symptoms in Women Test Positive
You frequently forget things, are unable to locate them, or become numb during daily activities. Memory problems can interfere with work and school performance.
The symptoms you are experiencing should be present before the age of 12, last six months and disrupt your life in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. The test will ask questions about a variety of symptoms related to inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
Inattentive Signs and symptoms
Women with inattentive ADHD symptoms typically have difficulty being organized and retaining information. They may lose track of appointments or forget what they've been told to do. They might also have difficulty staying focused during meetings at work or college lectures. They may also have trouble keeping their household chores in order or paying bills.
Unlike hyperactive/impulsive-type ADHD, inattentive symptoms aren't as noticeable and can make it harder for girls and women to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Additionally the stigma associated with being diagnosed with ADHD can make people believe that women don't suffer from the same issues like men and boys, and therefore shouldn't be diagnosed or treated. This makes it more difficult for healthcare providers and educators to recognize and diagnose women and girls with ADHD.
Attention-deficit ADHD symptoms are also more difficult for people to recognize in girls and women because they are more likely to be internalized. Inattentional ADHD can make it difficult for women to maintain healthy work and personal relationships. Their impulsivity and forgetfulness are often misinterpreted by others as being unorganized. They may attempt to cope by working too much, relying on productivity apps, or becoming more in control of their relationships.
The hormonal fluctuations women experience throughout their lives can affect ADHD symptoms. These changes are most noticeable during the luteal phase of menstrual cycles, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and in the period before menopausal, as estrogen levels decrease. Research is ongoing to understand how these hormone changes might influence an individual's ADHD symptoms and medications.
It is important to note that gender refers to a person's biology--their genetic makeup, hormones, and anatomy--whereas sex refers to a person's internal sense of self as a woman, man or nonbinary regardless of their physical appearance. Verywell Health acknowledges that sex is a complex issue and that some people consider themselves neither male nor female, or as an intersex person. This is why Verywell Health does not define the gender of its readers. Please refer to the Verywell Health FAQ on sex and gender for more information.
Hyperactive Symptoms
In general, women who suffer from ADHD do not exhibit the same number of hyperactive symptoms as men. As a result, it is more difficult for them to be diagnosed and treated. This doesn't mean, however that ADHD isn't present in women. The number of females diagnosed with ADHD has increased since 2020.
In their early years the boys have a greater likelihood of being diagnosed with ADHD than girls. But as they grow up, the numbers even out. Adults suffering from ADHD might have trouble recognizing their condition, as the symptoms can change over time and become confused with other ailments.
For instance, people suffering from ADHD struggle to sleep at night. Stress, hormone fluctuations, or medication prescribed to treat other ailments can make the problem worse. It can also be made worse by eating a large meal or drinking alcohol prior to the time to go to bed. It is crucial to understand that getting a good night's rest is a crucial aspect of managing ADHD as an adult. Healthy sleep habits such as using a blanket that is weighted and setting a routine can aid.
Problems with emotions can be particularly difficult for women with ADHD, who are more susceptible to mood swings. This could lead them to be misunderstood or dismissed by others and contribute to relationship troubles. They could also be more prone to illnesses such as depression which can make focusing and remembering things difficult.
To find out more about ADHD, it is important to consult an experienced health professional. This includes a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. There are three subtypes of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and mixed. To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person has to have at least six symptoms in each of the categories over a period of six months. Inattentional ADHD is typically internalized, which includes having a tendency to daydream and becoming easily distracted. Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms are more visible and include fidgeting, squirming in a chair or running around in situations where remaining seated is expected. Mixed ADHD is the most common and can cause both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.
The symptoms of an impulse
Women who suffer from impulsive ADHD have difficulty in social situations. They may be prone to talk a lot or get off track in conversations. They also have difficulty understanding body language and social cues. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions, which makes them more prone to rage or anger. This can make it more difficult to be able to coexist with other people and function in a team environment. Women with impulsive ADHD are also more likely to become sexually active earlier in their age, which can lead to unwanted pregnancies and STIs.
Mood swings are common in women with ADHD and many notice that their symptoms get worse during certain periods of the month or key life events such as a divorce or loss of loved ones. Women with impulsive ADHD can be misunderstood and dismissed because of gender stereotypes or other reasons.
Women are also more adept at concealing their ADHD symptoms. high functioning adhd in women makes it more difficult for them to obtain an assessment or treatment. Some experts believe that this is because females have strategies and coping mechanisms which help them conceal their ADHD. Some of these include setting up reminders for phone calls or adjusting their schedules, or using medication to manage symptoms.
Women suffering from ADHD may have trouble sleeping well, which can affect their attention and impulsivity. To improve your quality of sleep, try to stick to a regular bedtime routine, do calming activities before you go to sleep, and avoid screen time before you go to bed. Exercise can also enhance the quality of your sleep, since it releases neurotransmitters, which improve your mood and concentration.
If you suspect that you be suffering from ADHD It is important to see an expert in mental health to get a diagnosis. This is the only way to confirm that you are suffering from ADHD and determine how severe your symptoms are. If you're ready to move on, our Find a Therapist resource can help.
Social Symptoms
Women with ADHD might find it difficult to manage their symptoms in social situations. They might feel that people are not as impressed with them because they aren't able to listen, pay attention or follow through. This can lead to miscommunications and irritability in relationships both professional and personal.
Women may also find it harder to get a diagnosis of ADHD because they often mask their symptoms. This is to comply with social expectations and norms, as well as to manage their daily activities. This can include healthy coping strategies, such as using a planner or setting reminders on their phone, but it can also involve unhealthy coping habits like excessive fidgeting, skipping meals and working longer hours to make up for.
It is also difficult to spot ADHD symptoms in women of adulthood because they could be confused with other conditions, such as depression or anxiety. Anxiety and ADHD have common symptoms, like difficulty concentrating, feeling restless or having trouble sleeping. However, the lack of concentration, disorganization and impulsivity of ADHD aren't typically associated in people suffering from anxiety.
The impulsivity and hyperactivity of ADHD can also be confused with a mood disorder especially in adults. Women who have a history of depression, bipolar disorder or other mood disorders may be more likely to suffer from ADHD. It is essential to consult a trusted medical professional assess your symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis.
Adult women with ADHD may improve their quality-of-life by learning coping skills and seeking treatment. They may benefit from counseling to improve their emotional regulation, or even coaching from professionals who will teach them behavioral strategies and help them set goals. You can also get medications for ADHD symptoms with an appointment with an expert doctor. The use of stimulant drugs is more frequently prescribed for those suffering from ADHD, but non-stimulant options are just as effective in certain instances.