ADHD in Female Adults Symptoms
ADHD affects both men and women, however, societal expectations and gender roles often make it harder for them to recognize the signs. Women are also better at masking their symptoms, which could result in a misdiagnosis or delay in treatment.
Lingering stereotypes, referral biases, internalized symptoms and comorbidities can all create obstacles to a correct diagnosis and effective treatment. Here are some female adult symptoms that are not treated for adhd.
1. Trouble focusing
While hyperactive and impulsive symptoms of ADHD are more prevalent in males and females however, women and those who are assigned a female at birth (AFAB) aren't yet being diagnosed 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.
Inattention ADHD symptoms include being unable to remember important appointments or items, and being easily distracted by social or work occasions. Women with this disorder may also find it difficult to focus on their schoolwork or other activities. Women who suffer from ADHD are often unable to fall asleep or staying asleep due to anxiety, depression, or medical problems.
People who have inattention ADHD tend to hide their symptoms and attempt to make up for them. Their behavior may be misinterpreted by others, resulting in misunderstandings, frustration and conflict in their relationships. It can lead to difficulties in their careers and a lack of opportunities at work.
This is why the consequences of untreated ADHD in females who are adults can be devastating. Women can find themselves struggling to manage their difficulties at home and at work which can make it difficult for them to stay afloat as they take on many responsibilities and strive to meet the goals they have set for themselves.
Alongside having issues focus, many women suffering from ADHD struggle to find emotional support from their families and friends. They may become lonely, or develop unhealthy patterns that can be self-defeating like drinking.
Women with untreated ADHD can also develop internalizing symptoms, such as low self-esteem and feelings of guilt, shame or deprivation. This makes them more susceptible to physical and mental stressors and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. This means they are more likely to turn to suicide or self-injury as compared to those who do not suffer from the condition. A diagnosis can help a woman feel more empowered to take steps to transform her life to the best of her abilities. To be diagnosed one must first speak with a qualified health professional for an evaluation and effective treatment.
2. Time Management Problems
ADHD symptoms can be difficult to manage, especially in the workplace. Women with no diagnosis of ADHD have a difficult time managing their day-to-day schedule and completing work tasks. They might forget important documents or appointments or rely on productivity apps to stay on top of things. These apps are useful, but cannot replace the ability to organize your life.
Gender roles can amplify the impact of ADHD symptoms for women. Women are expected to care for their families and homes and homes, which require a level of coordination that ADHD sufferers have to work hard to maintain. This societal pressure can trigger feelings of self-reflection and shame in women who suffer from ADHD who attempt to fulfill these expectations which can cause them to conceal their symptoms.
Problems with time management can result in frustration in relationships both professional and personal. ADHD symptoms can cause you underestimating the time needed to complete a task, causing you to be late to meetings or other commitments. Consider using a checklist or a calendar to the track of deadlines if you're frequently late for events. Take frequent breaks to move around and calm your mind. You can also employ a timer when you work.
You can also try mindfulness techniques to help you stay on task and reduce distractions. Watching news stories on your smartphone instead of music or podcasts can be a good alternative to listening to music while working. If doctors that treat adhd in adults find it difficult to concentrate while driving, think about changing to a vehicle with a manual transmission. You can also consider driving with your phone off to prevent distracted texting and phone calls.
When you are diagnosed with ADHD, the mental health professional can suggest treatments and coping strategies. Treatment options include stimulants and psychotherapy. Your doctor will suggest the appropriate therapy based on your symptoms and the current situation 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 for healthier ones. You can also seek couples counseling or family therapy to improve communication in your relationships.
3. untreated adhd in female adults symptoms and Depression
Females who suffer from ADHD often report higher levels of anxiety and depression than their male counterparts. They may be struggling to deal with the symptoms, and this can lead to a variety of unhealthy behaviours. To cope with their symptoms, they could turn to substances or unhealthy eating habits. These habits can cause symptoms to worsen. Women are more likely to have problems that are not diagnosed. This means that they receive the wrong treatment, which can further worsen their mood and trigger other issues.
It's important to note that many factors can cause similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD such as stress as well as certain physical conditions and illnesses. It is important to speak with an expert in mental health or a health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Researchers suspect that this difference in the rate of ADHD diagnosis between women and men is due to a combination of social and biological gender roles. Women are usually expected to perform the majority of parenting and household chores than their male counterparts. This pressure can result in feelings of self-doubt and lead to dysfunctional beliefs that can exacerbate symptoms of ADHD.
Additionally, women are less likely to admit their symptoms to a medical professional because they believe they can handle the symptoms on their own. Women who suffer from ADHD might also be more likely to blame their symptoms on other factors like a lack of sleep or excessive stress. This can lead to many women who suffer from ADHD not being diagnosed until later in life.
Research suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic is particularly difficult for young adults. They are more likely to experience greater levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms than adults in their middle years. The highs in these levels coincided with a spike in COVID-19 case numbers and occurred during a time of racial justice protests, mass shooting events, decades-high inflation, Russian invasion of Ukraine and recurring climate catastrophes and rising unemployment. Stress exposure as a whole, whether it is chronic or recent, is known to cause depression and anxiety. This combination of factors could be the reason why these levels are so constant high.
4. Problems in Making Friends
Women with untreated ADHD can have trouble finding and maintaining friendships particularly as they get older. Social isolation can cause health issues such as high blood pressure or chronic stress. It is beneficial to have close family and friends who can offer support, however many adults struggle to maintain or establish new relationships.
Societal norms about gender and sexuality can affect the likelihood that women with ADHD receive the treatment and diagnosis they need. In one study, parents or teachers were less likely than boys to refer girls to treatment 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 societal expectations of girls and women may also exacerbate 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. Women and girls are more likely to be the victims of punishment for symptoms of ADHD like inattention and disorganization. Consequently, they might be incorrectly diagnosed with depression or anxiety and their ADHD symptoms may not be treated appropriately.
Furthermore, hormone fluctuations can also amplify ADHD symptoms in females. Estrogen levels are lower towards the end of their menstrual cycle and during ovulation, and this can cause the symptoms of women and girls appear to be more severe. Combined with hormonal changes in the adolescent years, this can cause confusion about their symptoms, making it difficult for them to receive the correct diagnosis and treatment.
Although many of the same treatment options are available to women with ADHD However, a mental health professional will still need evaluate each person's individual needs and symptoms. The type of treatment a patient receives is based on the severity of their ADHD symptoms, as along with other factors contributing to their difficulties. For instance, a history depression or trauma. A few common treatments include cognitive behavioral therapy, where individuals learn to alter their negative thinking patterns and replace them with healthier ones, and couples counseling which can help couples improve communication and resolve problems in their relationships.