ADHD in Female Adults Symptoms
ADHD affects both men and women, but societal expectations and gender roles can make it harder for them to be diagnosed. Women are also better in minimizing their symptoms, which could lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment.
Internalized symptoms, referral biases persistent stereotypes and comorbidities are all obstacles to a proper diagnosis. Here are a few of most frequently reported untreated adhd female adults symptoms.
1. Difficulty Focusing
While hyperactive and impulsive symptoms of ADHD are more prevalent for both genders however, women and those born female (AFAB) are still underdiagnosed for the condition. This is in part because women's symptoms are more often inattentive than those of the hyperactive/impulsive type, which make them less likely to get referred for assessment and treatment.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms include forgetting important appointments or things that are important, and getting easily distracted by social or work events. Women suffering from this disorder may also find it difficult to focus on their schoolwork or other activities. Women who suffer from ADHD may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep due to depression, anxiety or medical issues.
People with inattention ADHD tend to hide their symptoms and try to compensate for them. Their behavior can be misinterpreted by others, leading to conflicts, frustrations and miscommunication in their relationships. This can result in problems in the workplace and missed career opportunities. at work.
Untreated ADHD can have devastating consequences on females. Women may find it difficult to cope with their difficulties both at home and in the workplace. adhd treatment for adults medication could make it difficult to keep afloat as they juggle their multiple tasks and strive to meet the goals they have set for themselves.
Many women with ADHD have trouble focusing and struggle to get emotional support from family members and close friends. They may become lonely, or develop unhealthy patterns that can be self-defeating like drinking.
Women who suffer from untreated ADHD may also experience internalizing symptoms like low self-esteem and feelings of shame, guilt or worthlessness. This makes them more prone to stress, physical illness and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. They are more likely than those who do not have the condition to commit suicide or self-harm. Receiving a diagnosis can help women feel more confident in taking steps to alter her life for the better. However, obtaining an diagnosis is a prerequisite for seeing an expert in healthcare for a thorough assessment and effective treatment.
2. Problems with Time Management
ADHD symptoms are difficult to manage in the workplace, especially. Women who aren't diagnosed with ADHD typically have a difficult working through tasks at work and managing their daily schedule. They might forget appointments, misplace important paperwork, or depend on productivity apps to help remain on track. These apps can be helpful, but cannot replace the ability to organize your life.
The gender role expectations of women can also increase the symptoms of ADHD. Society expects women to be the caretakers of their home and family which requires a certain level of coordination that those with ADHD struggle to maintain. This societal pressure can trigger feelings of self-reflection and shame for women who suffer from ADHD who try to meet those demands which can cause them to conceal their symptoms.
Troubles with time management could lead to frustration in relationships, both personal and professional. ADHD symptoms can cause you underestimate the time it takes to complete a task, causing you to be late for meetings or other commitments. You might want to consider using a checklist or a planner to track deadlines if you are frequently late for events. Take frequent breaks to relax your mind and move around.
You can also employ mindfulness techniques to stay focused and avoid distractions. For instance, instead of listening to music or podcasts while working, listen to the news on your phone. If you have trouble being able to concentrate while driving, you might consider switching to a car with manual transmission. You can also consider driving with your cell phone turned off to stop distractions with texting and calls.
A mental health professional can help you find the best treatment and coping strategies for ADHD. Treatment options can include medications, like stimulants, and psychotherapy. The type of therapy that your doctor recommends is based on your specific symptoms and the circumstances in your life. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy can help you to learn to accept your thoughts and feelings while changing negative patterns of behavior to healthier ones. You can also seek family therapy or couples counseling to improve communication between your family members.
3. Anxiety Disorders and Depression
Females who suffer from ADHD typically have higher levels of anxiety and depression than their male counterparts. They can struggle to cope with these issues, leading to a range of unhealthy behaviors. In order to deal with their symptoms, they could resort to using substances or adopt unhealthy eating habits. These actions can make symptoms worse. Women are also more likely to get these problems misdiagnosed. They may be given the wrong treatment that could make them feel worse or cause other issues.
It's important to remember that a myriad of factors can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD like stress and certain physical ailments and illnesses. It's important to see a medical specialist or a mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Researchers believe that the differences in ADHD diagnoses between men and women is due to a combination biological and socially constructed roles. Women are expected to take on more household and parenting work than men. This pressure can cause feelings of self-doubt and lead to dysfunctional beliefs that can cause symptoms of ADHD.
Additionally, women are less likely to report their symptoms to a medical professional due to the belief that they should be able to handle them on their own. Women who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to blame their symptoms on other factors like a lack of sleep or excessive stress. This can lead to many women with ADHD not being diagnosed until adulthood.
Research suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic is especially difficult for young adults. They are more likely to experience higher levels of depression and anxiety than adults in their middle years. The highs in these levels coincided with spikes in COVID-19 case numbers and occurred during a time of protests against racial injustice, mass shootings, decades-high inflation, Russian invasion of Ukraine as well as recurring climate disasters and rising unemployment. Chronic and recent stress exposure is an important risk factor for depression and anxiety This combination of factors may help explain why these levels have been so constantly increased.
4. Trouble Making Friends
Women with untreated ADHD may have difficulty establishing and maintaining friendships, especially in their later years. Social isolation can be linked to a variety of health problems, including high blood pressure and chronic stress. It can be beneficial to have close family and friends who are able to provide support, but many adults struggle to keep or establish new relationships.
The social norms surrounding gender and sexuality can have an affect whether women suffering from ADHD receive the treatment and diagnosis they need. In one study, teachers or parents were less likely than boys to refer girls to services for ADHD. This is thought to be partly due to the different types of symptoms that manifest in girls and boys: boys and men typically display hyperactive/impulsive-type symptoms, while girls and women typically show primarily inattentive-type symptoms.
These expectations from society for women and girls could also exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. Girls and women are often held to a higher standard than boys and men for the behaviors, attitudes, and traits they exhibit--particularly in relation to their empathy and ability to relate to others. Girls and women are more likely to experience punishment for symptoms of ADHD like disorganization and inattention. They could be misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety and their ADHD symptoms might not be treated properly.
Moreover, hormone fluctuations can further amplify ADHD symptoms in females. Estrogen levels are lower towards the end of menstrual cycles and during ovulation, and this can make girls' and women's symptoms appear to be more severe. This can lead to confusion in adolescents, particularly when it is combined with hormonal changes. It is difficult to recognize and treat them properly.
While many of the same treatment options are available to women suffering from ADHD, a mental healthcare professional must still assess the individual's needs and symptoms. The type of treatment that a person receives is based on their ADHD symptoms, as along with other factors that could be the cause of their issues. For instance the history of trauma or depression. Some common treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy, where individuals are taught to change their negative thoughts and swap them out for healthier ones, and couples counseling that can help people improve communication and resolve problems in their relationships.