ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed
Women and those who are born female mask their symptoms of ADHD. This can make it more difficult to receive an assessment.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must have lasted from childhood, technically before age 12. Doctors may interview close friends and family members.
This quiz will help you assess your symptoms against the symptoms of women suffering from ADHD. It can't diagnose you, but it can help your healthcare professional determine your needs better.
Symptoms
ADHD can be a problem for adults too. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe that the inattentive version of ADHD is more prevalent among women. The symptoms of this type are less apparent than those of the other two, and typically manifest as symptoms that are internal, such as the inability to focus or a tendency to daydream.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are prone to lack of focus and poor time management and difficulties paying attention at work or in class. They may also have difficulty keeping track of their bills and appointments or performing household chores. Women may try to alleviate these issues by working harder or trying to be more organized. However, this often backfires and causes feelings of frustration. Some women resort to unhealthy coping strategies, such as drinking or using drugs.
If you think you may have ADHD or other related disorders, you should speak to your doctor or a mental health professional. They can help you identify your symptoms and refer you to a specialist when needed. Your doctor will want to know your family history, medical history and any other mental health issues you may have that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) defines five continuous symptoms that satisfy the requirements for an 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 had symptoms for at minimum six consecutive months before you can be diagnosed with ADHD. They should also have a negative impact on your life and interfere with how well you can function.
You can decrease the severity of your symptoms by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly, as well as reduce your intake of processed or sugary foods. You can also practice mindfulness meditation to help calm your mind and assist you to reduce impulsiveness, distractibility and promote restful sleep. You can also speak with your doctor about using medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is a crucial step to managing the symptoms and living the life you desire. But it's not something you're able to do by yourself. A mental health professional will be required to examine your symptoms and perform a thorough physical examination. A medical doctor will also review your history to rule out other conditions that could be a cause of ADHD.
In many cases, those who are diagnosed with ADHD get treatment right away. There are two main drugs for the disorder that are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are more commonly used because they are more effective and provide a longer-lasting effect than non-stimulants. Your therapist or psychiatrist will prescribe an appropriate medication based on your needs. It is best to discuss your options with them to ensure they can make the best choice regarding your symptoms.
Although ADHD is more prevalent for males and boys, cisgender women can suffer from the same symptoms. Due to the gender discrimination and the fact that a lot of doctors aren't aware of the ways ADHD can affect women, it is more difficult for women to receive a reliable diagnosis as adults.
This assessment was designed with the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based on DSM-5 criteria, but it is broken down to reveal how these symptoms appear for women. It is not a diagnostic tool, however, it can serve as a basis for an interview with a medical professional or therapist regarding your symptoms.
Bring all your symptoms to the evaluator along with any relevant documents such as the performance evaluations you receive at work or copies of previous tests. The evaluator reviews them to determine if they satisfy the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator may also ask you questions about your lifestyle and habits to determine the severity of your symptoms.
The evaluator might want to know, for example, how long you've been experiencing ADHD symptoms and how they have affected your life. They will also review your medical history, and perform tests to rule out conditions that might cause similar symptoms.
Web Site
There are a variety of treatment options for adults with ADHD. The most popular treatment is medication. They can help reduce symptoms and regulate brain activity, but they must be prescribed and under the supervision of a medical professional. Stimulant medications are usually the first choice, but non-stimulants can also be utilized in certain situations. In addition to addressing ADHD, your doctor may recommend additional neuropsychological or psychological testing to examine the impact of co-existing conditions such as depression or anxiety.
The symptoms of ADHD can affect relationships and personal growth. Women with ADHD typically have a difficult time reading social cues and picking up on body language and this can lead to poor communication skills. This can create difficulties at workplace and at home. Women who suffer from ADHD are also at higher risk of developing mood disorders including depression and anxiety. In fact, it is thought that 60% of those with ADHD suffer from symptoms that persist throughout their lives and women are less likely to recover from their condition than men.
The most crucial step in finding a diagnosis and treating ADHD is recognition. As people get older, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. It can be difficult for them to get the assistance and support they require. The good news is that current research on ADHD focuses on analyzing the impact of ADHD on women and is making advances in the treatment and diagnosis.
In addition to medication as well, many women suffering from ADHD benefit from a variety of lifestyle changes and strategies for treating. Women with ADHD benefit from working closely with an ADHD coach who can assist them create organizational strategies and structures that improve their performance and quality of life. Other treatment options include cognitive behavior therapy, which helps them accept their thoughts and feelings, while switching negative thinking patterns to healthier ones. Women may also benefit from family therapy or counseling for marriage. They can learn to communicate better with their partners and work out conflicts. Healthy sleeping habits can help manage symptoms of ADHD such as difficulties sleeping and staying awake. This means a regular bedtime routine, listening to soothing music or reading an audiobook and staying away from electronics before the bed.
Support
There are many options available, as well as a community of people who will help you, despite the fact ADHD isn't a diagnosis for women. Consult your primary physician for recommendations, or contact your insurance company to find an ADHD specialist near you. It's also an excellent idea to find an ADHD support group near you. These groups can assist you in finding health professionals who are experienced with diagnosing and treating ADHD for adults and offer a welcoming environment.
Doctors may be unable to diagnose girls and women suffering from ADHD as they usually exhibit different symptoms than men and boys. Some doctors might not be aware of these differences and may make incorrect diagnoses or use poor treatment strategies. This is especially applicable to impulsive hyperactive and inattentive ADHD symptoms.
If you suspect you have ADHD, you can take an online female ADHD test online. This free test is built on DSM 5 criteria and was created with the real experiences of ADHD women in mind. This is not a diagnosis test and should be accompanied by a professional consultation. Be aware that the article makes use of "male" and 'female" as terms that refer to gender. However we are committed to using sex identity that reflects the person's affirmation of gender.