ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Females and women who have been born female (AFAB) who have ADHD often hide their symptoms. This can make it more difficult to get a diagnosis.
For ADHD to be considered a diagnosis, symptoms must have been present since childhood. This is technically before the age of 12 years old. Doctors can interview close friends and family members.
This quiz will help you compare your symptoms with those of women with ADHD. This test isn't a diagnostic tool however it will help your healthcare provider get a better understanding of your needs.
Signs and symptoms
Many people view ADHD as a disorder that affects children, but it can also be seen in adults. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive form of ADHD is more common among women. Symptoms of this subtype are not as obvious as those of the other two, and typically manifest as symptoms that are internal, such as the inability to stay on task or a frequent daydreaming.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms in women could include inattention deficit, forgetfulness in class or at work, as well as inadequate time management skills. They may also have difficulties keeping track of expenses and appointments or performing household chores. Women may try to alleviate these problems by working harder or trying to be more organized. This can backfire and cause frustration. Some women resort to unhealthy ways of coping such as drug and alcohol drinking.
You should speak to your doctor or a mental health professional if you suspect you may have ADHD. They can help you recognize signs and refer you if required to a specialist. Your doctor will ask about your family history, your medical history, and any mental health issues that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders provides five ongoing symptoms that satisfy the criteria for ADHD diagnosis. You must have at least three of these symptoms to be diagnosed with inattentive ADHD or at least four of the hyperactive-impulsive symptoms to be diagnosed with the combined type of ADHD.
You must have experienced symptoms for at minimum six consecutive months prior to when you are diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must also be affecting your life negatively and affecting your ability to perform.
You can lessen the symptoms by following a healthy diet and exercising regularly. You can also cut down on your intake of processed and sugary food items. You can also try mindfulness meditation to calm your mind and body as well as control impulsiveness and distractibility, and promote restful sleep. You can also discuss with your doctor about the possibility of taking medication to treat ADHD symptoms.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is an essential step in managing symptoms and living the life you've always wanted. It's not possible to manage it on your own. A mental health professional is needed to evaluate your symptoms and perform a thorough physical exam. A medical doctor will also examine your medical background to rule out other problems that can mimic ADHD.
In many cases, people who are diagnosed with ADHD get treatment right away. There are two kinds of medications to treat the disorder: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are more well-known because they are faster in their action and have a longer lasting effect than non-stimulants. Your psychiatrist or therapist will prescribe the right medication based on your requirements. It is recommended to discuss all options with them to make an informed choice about your symptoms.
Despite the fact that ADHD is more common among boys and men however, females who are cisgender can also suffer from its symptoms. Unfortunately, because of the gender discrimination and the fact that a lot of doctors aren't aware of the ways ADHD can affect women, it can be more difficult for women to receive a reliable diagnosis as adults.
This assessment online was created with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is based upon the DSM-5 criteria but broken down to illustrate how these symptoms manifest for women. It is not a diagnostic tool, however, it can serve as a starting point to start discussions with a medical doctor or therapist regarding your symptoms.
If add in women test visit the evaluator, bring all your symptoms as well as any records that may be relevant, like performance evaluations from your job or copies of test results. The evaluator will go through the records to determine if your symptoms meet the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluation will also ask you questions about your lifestyle and habits to help determine the severity of your symptoms.
The evaluator may want to know what, for instance, how long you've been suffering from ADHD symptoms and how they've affected your life. They'll also review your medical history and conduct a few tests to rule out any other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
Treatment
There are many treatment options available to adults suffering from ADHD. The most commonly used treatment is medication. They can reduce symptoms and control brain activity, but must be prescribed and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Stimulant medications are usually the first choice, but non-stimulants can also be utilized in certain instances. Your doctor might also suggest psychological or neuropsychological tests to determine the effects of coexisting conditions such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD symptoms can interfere with your personal development and relationships. Women with ADHD often have a harder in recognizing social cues as well as understanding body language which can result in inadequate communication skills. This can cause problems at home and work. Women who suffer from ADHD also have a higher risk of mood disorders like depression and anxiety. In fact, it is thought that 60% of those with ADHD have symptoms that persist throughout their lives, and women are less likely to overcome their condition than men.
Recognizing ADHD is the first step to getting a proper diagnosis and treatment. For a lot of adults, their ADHD symptoms become more manageable as they age. However, it is still difficult to get the help and support they need. The positive side is that current research on ADHD is focused on understanding its effects on women, and advancements in treatment and diagnosis are being made.
Many women with ADHD can benefit from lifestyle changes and therapeutic approaches in addition to medications. For example some women benefit from working with an ADHD coach who can teach them how to organize their lives and establish structures to improve their life and productivity. Other options for treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings, while changing negative thought patterns to healthier ones. Family therapy and counseling for couples can also be beneficial for some women. They can learn to communicate better with their partners and how to solve conflicts. Healthy sleep habits can help manage symptoms of ADHD such as difficulty staying awake and falling asleep. This includes an established routine for bedtime and listening to soothing music or an audiobook and avoiding electronic devices or screen time prior to going to sleeping.
Support
Despite the fact that ADHD in women is underdiagnosed however, there are plenty of resources and a large community of people willing to help you. Ask your primary care physician for recommendations, or contact your insurance company to locate an ADHD specialist in your area. It's also a good idea to look for an ADHD support group in your local area. These groups can assist you to find health care professionals who have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults, and they can also provide a supportive environment.
Because girls and women typically experience different symptoms of ADHD than men and boys it can be difficult for doctors to diagnose. Some doctors might not be aware of the differences between them and make inaccurate diagnoses or employ unsuitable treatment strategies. This is particularly relevant to hyperactive, impulsive and inattention symptoms of ADHD.
You can take a test on the internet for female ADHD if you suspect you may have the disorder. This free test is based on DSM 5 criteria and was designed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. This is not a diagnostic test and should be accompanied by a consultation with a professional. It is important to note that this article makes use of the terms "male" and "female" to refer to gender, however, we are committed to using the sex identities that represent a person's affirmed gender identity.