ADHD Symptoms in Women Test Positive
You are often unable to remember things, lose them, or lose focus in daily activities. Your memory issues could hinder your work and school performance.
To be able to be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms have to be present before 12 years old, and lasted at least six months, and affected your daily activities. The test will ask questions about a variety of symptoms related to inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
Inattentional symptoms
Women who aren't attentive ADHD symptoms typically have difficulty being organized and retaining information. They may forget appointments or things they've been told. They might also have difficulty staying concentrate during lectures at college or business meetings. They may also have a difficult time 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. In addition the stigma associated with having ADHD can make people believe that women don't suffer from the same symptoms as boys and men and therefore shouldn't be assessed or treated. This makes it more difficult for health professionals and educators to recognize and diagnose women and girls who suffer from ADHD.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms are also harder to spot in women and girls since they tend to be internalized. Inattentional ADHD can make it difficult for women to maintain healthy work and personal relationships. Their impulsivity and forgetfulness are often perceived by others as disorganized. They may try to compensate by overworking using productivity apps or becoming more controlled in their relationships.
The hormonal fluctuations that happen throughout the life of a woman can affect ADHD symptoms. The most significant changes occur in the luteal phase, during breastfeeding, pregnancy, and the years leading up the menopause, when estrogen levels decrease. Researchers are working to determine the ways in which these hormonal changes could impact ADHD symptoms and the medications used to treat it.
It is important to understand that gender refers to a person's biology, including their chromosomal make-up, hormones, and anatomy, while sex refers a person’s internal sense of their self as a man or woman, or nonbinary regardless of their external appearance. Verywell Health recognizes that sex is a complicated subject and that certain people are neither male nor female or as intersex. This is why Verywell Health does not define the sex of its readers. Please see the Verywell Health FAQ on sex and gender for more information.
Hyperactive Symptoms
Generally speaking, women with ADHD generally do not exhibit the same amount of hyperactive symptoms that men do. Because of this, it can be more difficult for them to get diagnosed and treated. This does not mean, however, that ADHD is not present in women. Actually, it's quite the opposite The number of ADHD diagnoses in women has increased since the year 2020.
In the beginning the likelihood for boys is higher to receive an ADHD diagnosis than girls. However, as they get older the rates are even. Adults who suffer from ADHD may have a difficult time understanding their condition, since the symptoms can change over time and be confused with other ailments.
For instance, people suffering from ADHD struggle to sleep at night. This issue can be caused due to stress, hormone fluctuations or the use of medications to treat other ailments. An excessive meal or alcohol consumption prior to bedtime can worsen the problem. It is important to keep in mind that getting a restful night is a key part of managing ADHD in adults. Healthy sleep habits such as using a blanket that is weighted and setting a routine can aid.
Emotional problems can be especially challenging for women with ADHD who are more susceptible to mood swings. This can cause them to be ignored or misunderstood by others and result in relationship problems. They could also be more prone to illnesses such as depression, which can make focusing and remembering things difficult.
To know more about ADHD it is essential to talk to a health professional. This includes a complete assessment and diagnosis. There are three subtypes of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and mixed. To be able to be diagnosed, one must show six or more of the symptoms listed in each category for a minimum period of six months. Inattention ADHD symptoms are usually more internal, for example, being easily distracted or a daydreamer. 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.
Impulsive Symptoms
Women with hyperactive ADHD are often troubled in social situations. They can be extremely talkative and go off on off-topic conversations, and aren't able to detect social cues or body language. They might also have difficulty managing their emotions, which makes them more prone to anger or rage. This can make it more difficult for them to interact with other people and work in a team environment. Women with an impulsive ADHD also tend to become sexually active at a younger age, which can lead to unwanted pregnancies and STIs.
Mood swings are commonplace in women suffering from ADHD and many notice that their symptoms get worse during certain times of the month or important life events like divorce or the loss of a loved one. Gender stereotyping and other factors can cause women with impulsive ADHD to be misunderstood and dismissed as "overly emotional."
Women are also more adept at concealing their ADHD symptoms. This makes it difficult for them to obtain an assessment or treatment. Many experts believe that this is because women develop strategies to cope and coping mechanisms which help them hide their ADHD. Some of these include setting up reminders for phone calls or adjusting their schedules, or taking medication to manage symptoms.
Women who suffer from ADHD might have difficulty sleeping well, which can affect their impulsivity and attention. To enhance your quality of sleep, try to stick to a bedtime routine, do calming activities before you go to bed, and avoid a screen before you head to bed. Include exercise in your daily routine could be beneficial, as it releases neurotransmitters that boost your mood and improve focus.
If you think you might have ADHD it is essential to consult an expert in mental health for a diagnosis. This is the only way to know whether you are suffering from ADHD and the severity of your symptoms. If you're ready to take the next step to get help, our Find a Therapist resource can be of assistance.
Social symptoms
Women with ADHD are often unable to deal with their issues in social situations. They may feel that others are less impressed because they do not seem to pay attention, listen or follow through. This can cause misunderstandings and irritability in relationships, both personal and professional.
Women can also find it difficult to obtain a diagnosis of ADHD due to the fact that they tend to conceal their symptoms. This is in order to conform to norms and expectations, as well as to handle daily tasks. This could include healthy ways of coping, like a using a planner, or setting reminders on your phone. However, it can also involve unhealthy habits, such excessive fidgeting and skipping meals.
ADHD symptoms are difficult to spot in women of adulthood, since they are often confused with other conditions, like anxiety or depression. Anxiety and ADHD have common symptoms, such as trouble concentrating, feeling agitated or having trouble sleeping. The lack of organization, forgetfulness and the impulsivity that is typical of ADHD do not happen with anxiety.
The hyperactivity and impulsivity of ADHD can be confused with mood disorders, especially in adults. add in adult women with a past history of depression, bipolar or other mood disorders are more likely to develop ADHD. It is essential to have a trusted healthcare professional assess your symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis.
Adult women suffering from ADHD can improve their quality of life by learning coping strategies and seeking treatment. They may get counseling to help them learn emotional regulation or coaching by an expert who can teach them behavioral strategies and help them set goals. You can also take medication for ADHD symptoms with an appointment with a doctor. Stimulant medication is typically prescribed for those suffering from ADHD however, non-stimulant alternatives are just as effective in some cases.