ADHD in Women - Why Gender Bias and Outdated Criteria May Play a Role
Women are often wrongly diagnosed with ADHD and treated in a way that is not adequate. A bias towards gender and outdated criteria may be a factor.
Doctors interview patients and ask people who know them well like spouses, siblings, or friends to evaluate symptoms.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary at different times, such as during menstrual periods, pregnancy or menopause. However, they can hinder relationships, work and life generally.
Symptoms
Women and those who are deemed female at birth, (AFAB), often go undiagnosed. Or they receive an incorrect diagnosis. This can be very frustrating and can cause feelings of despair. It is important to remember, however, that these problems do not come from you and have nothing to do with do with your behavior or personality.
The signs of ADHD for women may differ between individuals however the most frequent are disorganization, forgetfulness, and difficulty staying focused. There are also issues when it comes to paying attention or finishing tasks, and may end up in trouble at work or at school, having difficulty maintaining relationships and managing your finances, and feeling restless and anxious constantly. Many women also experience emotional distress, such as mood swings or a negative view of themselves. Some women even commit non-suicidal acts of self-injury like cutting or burning themselves, or have difficulty sleeping.
It's important to know that the signs of ADHD can differ based on the stage of a woman's career or life. This is due to hormonal fluctuation. Women with ADHD might experience more severe symptoms during their menstrual cycle or pregnancy, as well as when they are going through menopause. Certain beliefs about gender and behavior may also determine if symptoms are spotted. If you're female and suffer from ADHD, for example your impulsiveness or mood swings could be interpreted as signs of depression. Your lack of organization and forgetfulness might be seen as "female characteristics."
These nuances can be a source of frustration however there are steps that you can take to get the assistance and support you need. It's always recommended to begin with your primary physician who can refer you to an expert in mental health to be evaluated. Women with ADHD can benefit from improving their organizational skills and develop better strategies for dealing with stress. You can also talk to a career counselor or join an online support group.
It's important to note that the treatment of ADHD for women is similar to the treatment of men and may include stimulants. It is also essential to speak with your doctor about any other issues you may have, such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder.
Diagnosis
Adults may be unable to receive an diagnosis for ADHD. You may have missed your symptoms as a child or figured out how to hide them. Additionally gender stereotypes can make it harder for women to receive a diagnosis. Women who suffer from ADHD might be misdiagnosed as "high-functioning," or as having "mood disorders."
You must meet certain criteria to be diagnosed with ADHD. The first requirement is to have five ongoing symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity that interfere with work or school life. It is also essential to have a an history of these symptoms beginning before the age of 12 years old. The second requirement is to have significant issues triggered by symptoms in two different settings, such as work or home. Additionally, the symptoms must be present for more than six months in order to be considered a diagnosis.
It is also necessary to undergo an examination to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, like thyroid issues or seizure disorders. You will likely also be asked to complete psychological tests, such as an assessment of your behavior or a checklist. The examiner may ask you questions regarding your past and how you handled your symptoms. They may also ask you to talk with people who know you, including close friends and family members. The evaluator will then use their findings to create the report you need.
In some cases the evaluator might decide that you don't have ADHD. They may say that your symptoms are mild or very specific, and they don't affect your daily functioning. They may decide to rule out the condition if you suffer from other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, which can cause similar symptoms.
Ask your primary care doctor to refer you to a specialist if you are in search of a doctor who can test you for ADHD. They can recommend psychologists or psychiatrists who is specialized in ADHD. Alternatively, you can call your insurance company or inquire at the local hospital affiliated with a university to locate a health care professional who treats adults with ADHD. You can also join an ADHD support group and ask the members for recommendations.
Treatment
ADHD is a common problem for women, even though it is more common among boys and men. However, it is often more difficult for females to get treatment than men due to the way they mask their symptoms. The symptoms can range from not remembering appointments to being unable to work in noisy or crowded environments.
Females who live with ADHD might also feel pressure to meet different societal expectations. They may be expected to care for their children, take on multiple roles in the workplace and maintain stable relationships. This can be particularly difficult for women who suffer from impulsive, hyperactive, or combination symptoms. It is important for women suffering from these issues to get regular psychiatric examinations and also medication management.
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated using stimulant medication. These include methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts (Adderall) and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). Non-stimulant drugs can be used as a substitute for stimulants, like atomoxetine(Strattera),guanfacine(Intuniv), and viloxazine(Kapvay). Medications must be carefully monitored by a medical professional to make sure the proper dosage is being used.
There are numerous ways to improve the lifestyle of those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These include exercise, sleep hygiene, and healthy eating. Stress management strategies and workplace and homelife accommodations are also helpful. Psychotherapy can assist women who are suffering from their symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. These conditions often co-occurring with ADHD.
Depending on the uniqueness of your particular situation You may be able to benefit from a combination treatment. Your doctor will consider your age, lifestyle, and severity of symptoms when creating an appropriate treatment plan. They will also take into account any other health issues that you may be suffering from and whether there are any drug interactions or adverse effects to watch out for. They will also take into account the impact of hormonal fluctuations throughout your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal and menopausal. This will enable doctors to prescribe the appropriate type and dosage medication for you. Medications may help improve your mood and ability to focus.
Support
Women suffering from ADHD are frequently underdiagnosed. ADHD research is primarily focused on boys and men. This can cause healthcare providers and educators to miss symptoms of women and girls. This also means that women have less access to screening tools and treatment options. Thankfully it is changing. There are now more resources for women with ADHD and a greater awareness of their particular symptoms.
ADHD in women can lead to problems with relationships, work and school performance, and self-esteem. It can also lead to substance abuse and unhealthy coping habits, such as binge eating. Symptoms can also vary during different phases of life. For instance, fluctuations in hormones can affect the severity of symptoms. The mood swings could be misinterpreted as depression or anxiety by other people, which could delay the diagnosis.
A new online tool for screening for adults with ADHD has been created by the World Health Organization. This tool was created specifically for women, and it uses real-life situations to create questions that a healthcare professional could answer. It can help identify the most common ADHD symptoms in women and provide 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. A score is calculated, which reveals the severity of your symptoms based on your responses. The screening tool is free to use and can be completed online. It is important to keep in mind that the screening tool can't substitute for a thorough evaluation of your condition. It is best used in conjunction with an ADHD consultation.
When women with ADHD seek treatment, they often find their quality of living increases dramatically. The right treatment options can improve relationships, prepare them to be successful at work and school, and help them understand themselves better. adult add in women is also important to have support systems in place. This can be done by joining a support group or locating an ADHD coach who has previous experience working with female clients.