Symptoms of ADHD in Adults Female
Many women with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach the age of adulthood. This is due lingering stereotypes and referral biases, which cover up behavior, comorbidities, and hormonal changes.
Symptoms of ADHD in adults female may be harder to detect than those in men and boys because women's symptoms are more likely to be inattentive rather than hyperactive/impulsive. This can lead to underdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
1. Lack of Focus
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle with being able to focus and stay focused. This can lead to problems at work or school and can result in a lack of attention to homework or chores or missing important meetings. This can cause emotional problems, like mood swings or a decline in self-esteem.
Symptoms of inattentive-type ADHD are typically more subtle, which can make them difficult to diagnose and recognize. You may seem like you're not paying attention when people are talking (you may be unable to focus or have what is known as a"thousand-yard stare"). It can be difficult to complete tasks that require focus like writing reports or completing paperwork.
Regular exercise can increase your ability to concentrate and stay organized. Try walking on a regular basis or participating in group fitness classes and cycling or swimming. It's also a good idea to limit caffeine consumption, as it may cause a rise in the side effects of certain ADHD medications.
2. Trouble Making Decisions
Women suffering from ADHD have difficulty making decisions or following through on their actions. They may also have difficulty maintaining their calm and avoiding impulsive behavior, which can lead to issues at work or in relationships.
The inattentive subtype of ADHD has nine symptoms that must last for at least six months to be diagnosed, while the hyperactive/impulsive and mixed subtypes each have their own set of symptoms. For instance, some women with ADHD may have trouble sitting still or being able to focus on tasks that require complete attention. Additionally, they might be prone to misplacing things or forgetting important dates.
Women are often misdiagnosed and underdiagnosed as the symptoms of ADHD aren't always apparent. However, a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a transformative moment for women who finally receive the help they require. Therapists can offer guidance and assistance to manage the disorder. They may suggest a combination of treatments like psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes such as establishing an established sleep schedule and practicing good sleeping hygiene.
3. Problems with Time Management
As girls with ADHD grow into adults, they might struggle to manage their lives and relationships with no assistance. They can be difficult to identify and, in particular, when their symptoms are mostly inattentive.
They forget important dates, such as birthdays or appointments. They lose the track of their routines as well as schedules making it difficult to leave on time for work or school. They might even lose or lose their wallets, eyeglasses keys or wallets.
ADHD symptoms aren't always obvious. They can be exacerbated by stress, mental health issues, or physical illnesses. It is important to discuss any issues you might be experiencing with your physician. They may recommend therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy to help you reframe negative thoughts and behaviors and create better strategies for dealing with them. Verywell Health notes that gender is the internal self-perception of a person and sex is biological.
4. It is difficult to stay organized
Symptoms of inattention can affect your school and work life, including forgetfulness and trouble keeping track of tasks. It could also cause lost items or missing important events, as well as difficulties with your relationships.
Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms can include difficulty sitting still (fidgeting, tapping your foot, or talking excessively) and restlessness (being unable to enjoy quiet activities). Additionally, they may be characterized by an inability for you to wait your turn in meetings or at work. Impulsivity can lead to reckless choices, risk-taking, or a tendency to interrupt.
Women are often pressured to be "perfect" to be able to balance family and career be punctual and organized and also meet other standards. This can lead to anxiety and stress that can exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD, causing them to be undiagnosed or not treated. The symptoms may also get worse when menopausal. This can cause feelings of self-doubt and difficulties in relationships.
5. Trouble Concentrating
Women and girls with ADHD may have difficulty being capable of focusing. This can cause problems at work or school, and can even hinder the formation of relationships. It isn't easy to remember to do routine tasks like dressing, taking medication or going to health check-ups.
Women suffering from ADHD have coping strategies to disguise their symptoms. This makes it difficult for others to realize that they have trouble staying focus or forgetting important details. These coping strategies could include healthy habits like setting reminders on their smartphones or adhering to the same routine. These coping mechanisms could also include unhealthy habits like excessive alcohol or substance use.
The severity of ADHD symptoms can vary and it is essential that those with ADHD discuss their concerns with their doctor. According to the CDC there are three severity levels: mild (fewer than six symptoms that cause minor impairments in work or social settings) moderate and severe.
6. Multitasking is difficult
Women who suffer from ADHD often feel pressured to meet societal expectations, which includes taking care of children, maintaining a happy family and home. This can be challenging when their ADHD symptoms hinder them from being organized, punctual and efficient.
The impulsivity and forgetfulness of people can lead to frustrations and misunderstandings with friends, partners, and family members. They can also hinder studies or work habits and cause underperformance.
This can lead to low self-esteem and anxiety which can contribute to coexisting mental health conditions, such as depression. Undiagnosed ADHD can also affect relationships and cause a lack of fulfillment at work and home. Fortunately, the right support can be helpful. You can overcome these difficulties by employing strategies to cope like a daily routine or reminders. You can also talk to your employer or school about accommodations that might aid you to manage your symptoms. You can also network with women who suffer from ADHD and learn how to manage it by joining a women's ADHD group.
7. Problems with managing attention
The inability to pay attention to particulars is among the primary symptoms of ADHD. This can manifest in many ways, from not understanding the fine text on a contract, to repeatedly making careless mistakes at work or in school.
Women who have inattention ADHD may struggle to follow a routine or manage their responsibilities at home or at work, which can lead to issues like missing appointments or forgetting to pay bills. ADHD adult symptoms may also have difficulty to stay at a distance or refrain from interrupting other people.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to suffer from depression or anxiety, and may have difficulty maintaining fulfilling, healthy relationships. They are also more likely to engage in sexual activity at an earlier age and are susceptible to being pressured to engage in sexually abusive or unwanted behavior.
Women with hyperactive/impulsive ADHD are less likely to develop these symptoms, so it is harder for them to be diagnosed. Women may also experience similar issues and should be evaluated by a health professional.
8. Difficulty staying calm
Symptoms of ADHD can heighten feelings of frustration and anger. People who aren't aware of the condition may misunderstand the emotions. Women should be aware of the signs and seek assistance before they become severe emotional issues.
If you're always forgetting appointments or are late for work meetings, it could cause conflict with your co-workers or your employer. It can also cause confusion with family and friends members. You may find yourself making up things that hurt others' feelings even though you weren't intending to do so.
There are three subtypes of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive and mixed. You must have six or more symptoms for at least six month to be diagnosed. Women are less likely to have the hyperactive/impulsive or mixed symptoms than men, but these can still occur in some cases. Women can also have other symptoms in addition to the inattentive type.
9. Problems in Making Friends
Women who have ADHD may have difficulty forming and keep friendships. Their forgetfulness and impulsive behavior can lead to miscommunications and conflicts with friends and family members. They might also struggle with emotional dysregulation, which makes it difficult to control their moods. This symptom can make them feel secluded, misunderstood or anxious, and this could have a negative impact on their self-esteem.
People with ADHD are often unable to discern social cues, such as eyes that roll or suppressed smiles. This can cause them to believe that their friends aren't interested in spending time with them, or that they ignore them.
Women are also more likely to experience interpersonal difficulties since depression can cause more ADHD symptoms. This can make it difficult for others to recognize the fact that someone is suffering from ADHD and delay a diagnosis. However, many people who suffer from ADHD find that once diagnosed their quality of life improves.