ADHD in Women

Posted by DysleixaMyLife.org

Little research explores the specific effects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) on adult women. children, adolescents, and men are more often the focus of research. Even in children, studies show that boys more often get an accurate diagnosis than girls.

Girls tend to show less “hyperactive” behavior than boys do. Most studies happen to focus a lot on those hyperactive ADHD patterns that are more common in males. When young girls’ ADHD symptoms go undiagnosed, the problems may continue into adulthood. Without understanding and treatment, ADHD can affect your overall quality of life.

ADHD Signs and Symptoms in Adult Women

Most women with ADHD get an accurate diagnosis in their late 30s or early 40s. Experts say there could be several reasons behind the late diagnosis.

It could be that parents, teachers, or pediatricians miss ADHD symptoms and behaviors in young girls because they aren’t obvious. Doctors may also diagnose girls and young women with other mood disorders like anxiety or depression rather than ADHD. Some new research also suggests that women may develop ADHD symptoms later in life. But scientists say they need more research to prove it.

Symptoms and signs of ADHD in adult women can include:

1. Difficulty with time management
2. Disorganization
3. Feeling overwhelmed
4. Impulsiveness.
5. Disorganization and problems prioritizing.
6. Poor time management skills.
7. Problems focusing on a task.
8. Trouble multitasking.
9. Excessive activity or restlessness.
10. Low frustration tolerance.

ADHD can run in families. If you have undiagnosed ADHD, you’re more likely to notice your own symptoms if your child or sibling gets a diagnosis. It’s also not uncommon for women with ADHD to have other challenges at the same time, such as compulsive overeating, chronic lack of sleep, or drinking too much alcohol.

Impact on Day-to-Day Life

Studies show that women with ADHD tend to have very low self-esteem. They also seem to have more emotional and psychological distress compared to adult men with ADHD.

Besides drugs, your doctor may also prescribe a combination of treatments that include psychotherapy, stress management, and ADHD-focused coaching to teach you coping strategies, self-esteem, and life-management skills. The need for these depends on your specific symptoms and situation.

If you struggle to keep up with the demands of your job, you can talk to a career counselor who understands ADHD. They may help you work on your strengths to better manage your performance at work. ( You do have Strengths!!)