Symptoms of ADHD in Adults Female
Many women who live with ADHD are not given a diagnosis until the age of adulthood. This is due to lingering stereotypes and referral biases that 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 both to a delayed diagnosis as well as an incorrect diagnosis.
1. Lack of Focus
Many people suffering from ADHD have difficulty focusing or staying on task. This can lead to problems at school or work and can result in a lack of attention to homework or chores, or missing important meetings. This can cause emotional problems, like mood changes or a loss of self-esteem.
The signs of inattentive-type ADHD are usually less obvious and therefore difficult to identify and diagnose. You may seem like you're not paying attention when people are talking (you might be unable to concentrate or have what is known as a"thousand-yard stare"). It can be difficult to complete tasks that require focus such as writing reports or completing paperwork.
Regular physical activity will improve your concentration and organization. Try going for an everyday walk, joining an exercise class for a group or even cycling or swimming. It's also an excellent idea to reduce caffeine consumption, as it may increase the side effects of certain ADHD medications.
2. Difficulty Making Decisions
Women suffering from ADHD are unable to make decisions or following through on their actions. They may also find it hard to maintain a calm disposition and avoid 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 difficulty staying still or concentrating on tasks that require their full attention. They may be susceptible to losing things or forgetting important dates.
Because the signs of ADHD are less apparent in women, they're often misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed. However, a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing moment for many women, who finally receive the help they require. A therapist can offer advice and support for managing the condition, and they may suggest a combination of treatments like psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes such as establishing an ongoing sleep routine and practicing good sleep hygiene.
3. Time Management Problems
Girls with ADHD might find it difficult to manage their relationships and lives as they get older. Their symptoms often fly under the radar, especially when they're mostly inattentive or mixed between both types.
They forget important events, like meetings or birthdays. They also lose track of their schedules and routines, making it harder to get out of the house on time for work or school. They may even misplace or lose their wallets, eyeglasses keys or wallets.
ADHD symptoms aren't always apparent. They can be made worse due to stress or mental health issues or physical illness. That's why it's crucial to talk to your doctor about any issues you're having. They might suggest therapy, including cognitive behavior therapy to help you overcome negative beliefs and behaviors and to create better strategies for dealing with them. Verywell Health notes that gender is the perception of a person's self, whereas sex is biology.
4. It is difficult to stay organized
Symptoms of inattention can affect your school and work with issues such as forgetfulness and difficulties getting things done. It could also cause lost items or missing important events, and 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). They can also manifest as an inability to wait for your turn in conversations or at work, with the inability to comprehend the boundaries of social interactions. Impulsivity can lead to rash decisions, taking risks or a tendency to interrupt.
Women may feel pressured to be 'perfect' - balancing family and career as well as being punctual and organised and many other expectations. This can cause anxiety and stress that may exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD, causing them to go undiagnosed, or neglected. The symptoms may also get worse when menopausal. This can cause anxiety and relationships problems.
5. Difficulty Concentrating
Girls and women with ADHD may have difficulty being capable of focusing. This can cause problems at work or school, and even make it difficult to build relationships. It can be difficult to remember to complete daily tasks such as getting dressed, taking medication or attending health checks.
Women with ADHD often develop strategies for coping to disguise their symptoms, so others may not notice that they struggle to stay on track or ignoring things. These coping strategies may include healthy habits, such as setting reminders on their phones or sticking to a routine. These coping mechanisms could also include unhealthy habits like excessive drinking or drug use.
The severity of ADHD symptoms can be different, and it is important that people with ADHD discuss their concerns with their doctor. According to the CDC there three levels of severity that are mild (fewer than six symptoms) that cause minor impairments in work or social environments) moderate, and severe.
6. Multitasking can be difficult.
Women who suffer from ADHD are often pressured to meet social expectations. This can mean caring for children, maintaining a healthy relationship, and running a household. This can be challenging if their ADHD symptoms prevent them from being organized, punctual and efficient.
The inability to remember and impulsivity can result in misunderstandings and frustrations between family members, partners, and friends. They can also affect the way you study or work which can lead to poor performance and performance issues.
This can lead to anxiety and low self-esteem, which can contribute to coexisting disorders like depression. Undiagnosed ADHD may also affect relationships and lead to a decrease of satisfaction at work and home. The right support can be helpful. ADHD symptoms adult female can overcome these challenges by employing strategies to cope like a routine for your day or reminders. You can talk to your employer or school about accommodations that can help you manage your symptoms. You can also network with women who suffer from ADHD and learn how to manage it by joining an women's ADHD group.
7. Attention Management Problems
One of the main symptoms of ADHD is an inability to pay attention to minute aspects. It can manifest in many ways, from not being able to read the fine print of a contract or making frequent errors at work or in school.
Women with inattentive ADHD are often unable to follow routines, or keeping track of responsibilities. This can lead to issues like not paying their bills or missing appointments. They may also find it difficult to be quiet or refrain from interrupting other people.
Additionally, women with inattention ADHD are more likely to suffer from depression or anxiety and may have trouble maintaining healthy, satisfying relationships. They are more likely to begin sexual activity at a later and risky age.
Women with hyperactive/impulsive ADHD are less likely to develop these symptoms, so it is harder for them to be diagnosed. Yet, women can face similar issues and should seek an evaluation from a medical healthcare professional.
8. Trouble staying calm
Symptoms of ADHD can heighten feelings of frustration and anger. People who are not aware of the condition might not be able to comprehend the emotions. It's important for women to be aware of these symptoms and seek help before they turn into serious emotional issues.
For instance, if you're constantly ignoring appointments or arriving late for work meetings it could lead to conflict with your boss or colleagues. It could also cause confusion with family and friends members. You might end up accidentally blurting out things that hurt other people's feelings even though you didn't intend to do it.
There are three subtypes of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive and mixed. You must show at least six 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. In addition to the inattentive type, women can experience a mix of other symptoms.
9. Problems in Making Friends
Women suffering from ADHD might find it difficult to maintain and make new acquaintances. Their forgetfulness and impulsiveness can lead to misunderstandings with family and friends. They may also have trouble with emotional dysregulation, making it difficult to control their moods. This symptom may cause them to feel secluded, misunderstood or even anxious, and it could have a negative impact on their self-esteem.
People with ADHD are often unable to discern social cues like rolled eyes and suppressed smiles. They may think that their friends aren't interested in having fun with them or that they don't care about them.
ADHD symptoms in adults uk may also have difficulty dealing with interpersonal issues since they are more likely to suffer from depression, which can worsen their ADHD symptoms. This can make it more difficult for others to notice that they're struggling with the condition, and could delay a diagnosis. Many people who suffer from ADHD say that their quality of life improves after they're diagnosed.