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ADHD in Women - Why Gender Bias and Outdated Criteria May Play a Role
Women are often overlooked and are not treated for ADHD. A lack of understanding and gender biases could be the cause.
Doctors conduct an interview with patients and may ask those who know the patient -- such as spouses, siblings or family members -- to assess symptoms.
Adult symptoms of ADHD can be different at different times, like during menstrual cycles or during pregnancy, as well as menopausal. They can impact relationships as well as work and life generally.
Signs and symptoms
Women and those who are assigned female at birth (AFAB) often go undiagnosed or receive a misdiagnosis of ADHD. adhd test for women can be very frustrating and cause feelings of powerlessness. It's crucial to remember that these difficulties are not your fault and do not have anything to do with the way you act or what you're like.
The signs of ADHD for women may differ among individuals however the most frequent are apathy, disorganization, and difficulty staying focused. You might also have difficulty staying focused or completing your tasks, be in difficulties at school or at work you feel anxious or irritable constantly or have trouble managing your finances or keeping relationships. Additionally, many women experience emotional stress, including mood shifts and a negative self image. There are those who suffer from non-suicidal self-injury such as burning or cutting themselves, or have trouble sleeping.
It's important to know that the symptoms of ADHD can differ based on the stage of a woman's career or life. This is due to hormonal changes. Women who suffer from ADHD may experience worse symptoms during their menstrual cycle, or pregnancy, as well as during menopause. Additionally, certain social attitudes about gender and behavior can determine if a person's symptoms will be noticed. If you're a female suffering from ADHD, for example your impulsiveness and mood swings could be interpreted as a sign of depression. Your inattention and lack of coordination may be considered "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 require. It's always a good idea to start with your primary physician and ask them to refer you to a mental health professional for evaluation. Additionally, women suffering from ADHD benefit from learning strategies to improve their abilities to manage their time and develop better coping mechanisms. You can also work with a career counselor or join an online support group.
It's important to note that the treatment of ADHD for women may be similar to the treatment of men and may include stimulants. It's also important to speak with your doctor about any medical issues you may have, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder.
Diagnosis
Adults may struggle to get an diagnosis for ADHD. Your symptoms may have been overlooked in your childhood, or you could have learned to cover them up as a means of coping. Women may also be more difficult to get diagnosed due to stereotypes about gender. Women who suffer from ADHD could 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 major problems caused by symptoms in two settings, such as work or home. In addition the symptoms must be present for more than six months to qualify as a diagnosis.
You must also have physical examinations to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues. You will likely be required to take psychological tests, such as an assessment of your behavior or a checklist. The examiner might ask you questions about your history and the way you dealt with your symptoms. They may also request that you speak with people who are familiar with you, including close family members and friends. The person who evaluates you will use their findings to prepare the report you need.
In some cases the evaluator may decide that you don't have ADHD. They might conclude that your symptoms, although slight or specific, don't interfere with your daily functioning. They might decide to rule out the condition in the event that you have other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, which could cause similar symptoms.
Consult your primary physician to refer you to a specialist if you are looking for a doctor who can assess you for ADHD. They can refer you to a psychiatrist or a psychologist who has expertise in ADHD. You can also contact your insurance provider, or local universities to find a professional who treats ADHD adults. You can also join an ADHD support group and ask the members for recommendations.
Treatment
While ADHD is more common for males and boys however, it affects a large number of women. However, it is often more difficult for females to get treatment than males because of the way they conceal their symptoms. The symptoms range from forgetting appointments or being unable work in noisy environments.
Women with ADHD may feel pressured to live up to society's expectations. They might be expected to care for their children, take on multiple jobs, and maintain stable relationships. This is particularly difficult for those with impulsive, hyperactive or combination symptoms. It is essential for women suffering from these issues to receive regular psychiatric evaluations and medication treatment.
Adults with ADHD are usually treated with stimulant medication. These include methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts (Adderall) and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). Non-stimulant medications can be substituted for stimulants, like atomoxetine(Strattera),guanfacine(Intuniv) and viloxazine(Kapvay). Medications must be carefully monitored by a medical professional to ensure that the correct dosage is being taken.
There are a variety of ways to improve the lifestyle of those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These include exercise, sleep hygiene and healthy eating. Stress management techniques such as workplace and homelife adjustments and stress management techniques could be beneficial. Psychotherapy can aid some women with their symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. These conditions often co-occurring with ADHD.
Depending on your unique situation A combination of treatments may be appropriate for you. Your doctor will consider your age, lifestyle and the severity of your symptoms when forming a plan. They will also take into account any other health issues you may be suffering from and whether there are any drug interactions or adverse effects to be concerned about. They will also consider the impact of hormonal fluctuations throughout your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal, and menopause. This will enable them to prescribe the right dosage and type of medication for you. Medications may help improve your mood and ability to focus.
Support
Women with ADHD are often underdiagnosed. This is due to a variety of reasons, including the fact that ADHD research focuses on men and boys. This can result in healthcare providers and educators missing the symptoms of girls and women. Also, women are less able than men to screening tools and treatments. Fortunately, this is changing. There are now more resources for women suffering from ADHD and a greater understanding of their particular symptoms.
ADHD in women can cause difficulties with relationships, school and workplace performance, and self-esteem. It can also lead to use drugs or unhealthy coping strategies for coping, like binge-eating. Symptoms may also change throughout the course of life. Hormonal fluctuations, for example, can influence the severity of symptoms. These mood swings may be misinterpreted as depression and anxiety by others, which could further delay an accurate diagnosis.
The World Health Organization has developed a new online screening tool to identify adult ADHD. This screening tool is designed specifically for women and draws on the experiences of real people to formulate questions that can be answered by a medical professional. It can help to identify the most prevalent 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. Based on your answers, a score will be calculated that reflects the severity of symptoms. The test can be completed online and is absolutely free. It is important to keep in mind that it cannot replace the complete assessment of your condition and should only be used in conjunction with an ADHD consultation.
When women with ADHD seek treatment, they typically experience a change in their lives that improves dramatically. The right treatment options can improve relationships, set them up for success in school and at work and help them to become more aware of themselves. Support systems are also important. This can be done by joining an online support group or by finding an ADHD coach who has worked with female clients.