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ADHD in Women – Why Gender Bias and Outdated Criteria May Play a Role Women are often not diagnosed and undertreated for ADHD. Gender biases and outdated criteria could be at play. Doctors use a patient interview and may ask those who are familiar with the patient such as spouses, siblings or family members to evaluate symptoms. Symptoms of adult ADHD can vary in different periods, such as during menstrual periods or during pregnancy or menopausal. However, they can also affect relationships, work and life in general. Signs and symptoms Women and those who are born female, (AFAB), often go undiagnosed. Or they receive an incorrect diagnosis. This can be a frustrating experience and cause feelings of powerlessness. It is important to remember that these issues do not come from you and have nothing to be related to your behavior or personality. The symptoms of ADHD in women can differ among individuals, but the most common are disorganization, forgetfulness and difficulty in staying focused. You may also experience trouble in focusing or working on tasks, and may end up in difficulties at work or school or having difficulty keeping relationships and managing your finances, and being restless and anxious constantly. Many women also experience emotional distress such as mood shifts or a negative opinion of themselves. Many suffer from self-injury that is not suicidal that includes things like burning or cutting themselves or experiencing sleep problems. It's important to note that the symptoms of ADHD can vary depending on the stage of a woman's career or life. This is due to hormonal fluctuation. For example, women with ADHD typically experience more severe symptoms during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, or when they go through menopausal. Additionally, certain social beliefs regarding gender and behavior could influence whether someone's symptoms are observed. If adhd symptoms in adult women 're a female with ADHD, for example your impulsiveness and mood changes could be misinterpreted as signs of depression. Your inattention and lack of coordination could be interpreted as “female characteristics.” Although mouse click the up coming article can be frustrating, there are steps you can take to get the assistance and support you need. It's always a good idea to start with your primary care doctor who can refer you to a mental health professional for evaluation. Additionally, some women with ADHD benefit from learning strategies to improve their organizational skills and develop better coping strategies. You can also consult with a career counsellor or join an online support group. It's important to know that the treatment of ADHD for women may be similar to the treatment of men and may include stimulants. It's also important to talk to your doctor about any medical conditions you might be suffering from, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Diagnosis Adults may be unable to receive an accurate diagnosis of ADHD. Your symptoms may have been overlooked in your childhood, or you may have learned to hide them as a means of coping. Women can also have a harder time getting diagnosed due to gender stereotypes. Women who suffer from ADHD might be misdiagnosed as “high-functioning” or as having a “mood disorder.” To be diagnosed with ADHD You must meet certain requirements. The first requirement is to have five ongoing symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity that interfere with work or school life. It is also crucial to have had these symptoms prior to the time you turned 12 years old. Second, the symptoms must cause major issues in two different environments such as at work or at home. The symptoms must also be present for at minimum six months to qualify as a diagnoses. You'll also have to undergo a physical exam to rule out medical reasons for your symptoms. This could be thyroid problems or seizures. You'll likely take psychological tests, as well like an assessment of your behavior or a scale. The examiner might ask you questions about your past and how you dealt with your symptoms. They may also ask you to talk with people who know you, like family members and close friends. The evaluator will then use their findings to write an evaluation report for you. In some instances an evaluator could conclude that you don't have ADHD. They may say that your symptoms aren't severe or extremely specific, and do not hinder your daily activities. They could also rule out the condition if you suffer from other mental health conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or anxiety. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral if are looking for a doctor who can assess your symptoms for ADHD. They may suggest a psychiatrist or psychologist who is skilled in ADHD. You can also contact your insurance company or inquire with local university-based hospitals to find a medical professional who treats adults with ADHD. You can join a support group for ADHD and ask the members for recommendations. Treatment Although ADHD is more common in boys and men, it also has a significant impact on women. However, it's more difficult for females to get treatment than men due to the way they conceal their symptoms. Symptoms range from forgetting appointments or being unable work in noisy environments. Females who live with ADHD might also be pressured to conform to different social expectations. They may be expected to care for their children, take on multiple jobs, and maintain stable relationships. This can be especially challenging for those with impulsive, hyperactive, or combination symptoms. This is why it is particularly important for women with these symptoms to be regularly evaluated for psychiatric disorders and medication treatment. Adults with ADHD are usually treated using stimulant medications. These include methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts (Adderall) and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). Non-stimulant medications that can be used in lieu of stimulants include atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Intuniv) and viloxazine (Kapvay). A medical professional must monitor the medication to ensure it is taken at the right dose. There are a variety of lifestyle strategies available to help those suffering from ADHD manage symptoms. They can include sleep hygiene, exercise, and healthy eating. Techniques for managing stress, workplace and homelife adjustments and techniques for managing stress can be helpful. Some women experience relief from their symptoms by engaging in psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a well-known option for treating depression and anxiety, which can be co-occurring disorders that are associated with ADHD. Based on the uniqueness of your situation, you may benefit from a combination treatment. When developing an appropriate treatment plan your doctor will take into account factors such as the severity, age, and lifestyle of symptoms. They will also take into account any other health issues you might be suffering from and whether there are any drug interactions or adverse effects to be aware of. They will also consider the effects of hormone fluctuations during menstrual cycles or pregnancy, perimenopause, perimenopausal and menopausal. This will allow them to prescribe the right dosage and type of medication for you. Medications may help increase your ability and mood to focus. Support Women with ADHD are often not diagnosed. This is due to a range of factors, such as the fact that ADHD research is focused on males and females. This can lead healthcare professionals and educators to overlook symptoms that women and girls experience. It also means that women are denied access to screening tools and treatment options. Fortunately, that 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 issues with relationships, school and job performance, and self-esteem. It can also lead to use drugs or unhealthy coping strategies like binge eating. Symptoms can also vary during different phases of life. Hormonal fluctuations, for instance, can influence the severity of symptoms. The mood swings can be misinterpreted by others as anxiety or depression, which can delay a diagnosis. A new online tool to screen for adult ADHD is being developed by the World Health Organization. The tool has been specifically designed for women and uses the experiences of real people to create questions that can be answered by a medical professional. It will help women identify their most prevalent ADHD symptoms and provide details that can be passed on to 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 to determine the severity of symptoms. The test can be completed online and is absolutely free. It is important to remember that it cannot replace a full assessment of your condition. It should only be used in conjunction with an ADHD consultation. When women suffering from ADHD seek treatment, they typically discover that their life quality increases dramatically. The right treatment can enhance relationships, help them achieve success at work and in school, and allow them to better understand themselves. It is also vital to have support systems in place. This can be achieved by joining an online support group or by finding an ADHD coach who has experience working with female clients.