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ADHD in Women – Why Gender Bias and Outdated Criteria May Play a Role Women are often underdiagnosed and untreated for ADHD. A bias towards gender and outdated criteria can play a role. Doctors conduct a patient interview and sometimes ask those who know the patient well — such as spouses, siblings, or even friends — to assess symptoms. Adult ADHD symptoms can change at various periods. For instance, during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. However, they can also interfere with relationships, work, and life in general. Signs and symptoms Women and people who are born female, (AFAB), often go undiagnosed. Sometimes, they are given a misdiagnosis. This can be very frustrating and cause feelings of powerlessness. But, it's important to keep in mind that these problems are not your fault and don't have anything to do with the way you act or what kind of person you are. ADHD symptoms in women differ, but the most common symptoms are disorganization, forgetfulness and difficulty staying focussed. There are also issues with paying attention 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 all the time. Additionally, many women suffer from emotional distress, such as mood fluctuations and a negative self-image. Some women even engage in non-suicidal actions of self-injury such as burning or cutting themselves, or experience difficulty sleeping. It is also important to remember that the symptoms of ADHD in women may differ at different times of women's lives due to hormonal changes. Women with ADHD might experience more severe symptoms during their menstrual cycle or pregnancy, and when they're going through menopausal. Some societal beliefs regarding gender and behavior may also influence whether symptoms are noticed. For instance women with ADHD and you exhibit impulsive behavior, your symptoms or mood swings could be misinterpreted as signs of depression, while your forgetfulness and disorganization may be seen as a part of the woman's “female qualities.” These nuances can be a source of frustration, but there are steps that you can take to get the support and help you require. It's best to start with your primary physician, who can refer you to a mental healthcare professional for an evaluation. In addition, some women suffering from ADHD benefit from learning strategies to improve their organizational skills and develop better coping strategies. You can also talk to a career counsellor or join an online support group. It's also important to note that the treatment for ADHD for women is similar to that of men, and it can include medications such as stimulants. It is also essential to speak with your doctor about any medical issues you may have like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. Diagnosis It can be hard to diagnose ADHD as an adult. You might have not noticed your symptoms in childhood or learned to disguise them. Additionally gender stereotypes can make it more difficult for women to be diagnosed. Women who have ADHD could be mistakenly diagnosed 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's also crucial to have a history of these symptoms beginning before the age of 12. The second requirement is to have significant issues triggered by symptoms in two settings such as work or 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 causes for your symptoms. This could be thyroid problems or seizure disorders. You'll likely have to take psychological tests, as well for example, an assessment of your behavior or a scale. The examiner might ask you questions about your past and the way you dealt with your symptoms. They may also request to talk to people who know you well, including close friends and family members. The evaluator will then use their findings to create the report you need. In some cases, an evaluator may determine that you don't have ADHD. They might say that your symptoms are not severe or extremely specific, and do not hinder your daily activities. They could rule out the condition, if you suffer from other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, which could cause similar symptoms. If you want to find a doctor who can evaluate your symptoms for ADHD and other disorders, ask your primary doctor for recommendations. They may recommend a psychiatrist or psychologist who is skilled in ADHD. You can also reach out to your insurance company or local universities, to locate an expert who treats ADHD adults. You can also join an ADHD support group and ask for suggestions. Treatment Although ADHD is more prevalent for males and boys but it also affects a significant number of women. However, it is often more difficult for females to get treatment than males because of the way they mask their symptoms. The symptoms can range from not being able appointments or being unable to work in noisy environments. Females who suffer from ADHD are also likely to feel pressure to meet different social expectations. They may be expected to take care of their children, manage multiple jobs, and maintain a stable relationship. This can be a challenge for those who have hyperactive, impulsive or combination symptoms. made my day is why it is crucial for women suffering from these conditions to be regularly evaluated for psychiatric disorders and medication treatment. Adults with ADHD are usually treated with stimulant medication. These include methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts (Adderall) and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). Non-stimulant medicines can be substituted for stimulants, such as atomoxetine(Strattera),guanfacine(Intuniv), and viloxazine(Kapvay). These medications should be closely monitored by a medical professional in order to make sure the proper dosage is being used. There are many ways to live a healthy lifestyle that can help people suffering from ADHD manage symptoms. Exercise, sleep hygiene, healthy eating, and other lifestyle strategies can help. Stress management techniques and home and work-life arrangements can also be beneficial. Psychotherapy can help women suffering from symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be an effective option for those suffering from depression and anxiety. These conditions are typically co-occurring with ADHD. Based on the uniqueness of your situation, you may benefit from a combination treatment. When determining an appropriate treatment plan the doctor will consider aspects like age, lifestyle, and the severity of symptoms. They will also consider any other health issues you might have, and if there are any drug-related interactions or side effects that you need to be aware of. They will also factor in the impact of hormonal fluctuations throughout your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. adhd in women adult will allow them to determine the appropriate type and dosage of medication for you. Medications may help improve your mood and ability to concentrate. Support Women who suffer from ADHD are frequently underdiagnosed. ADHD research is primarily focused on males and boys. This can cause healthcare providers and educators to overlook symptoms in girls and women. It also means that women have less access to screening tools and treatment options. Fortunately, that is changing. There are more resources for women with ADHD, and they are aware of their symptoms. ADHD in women can cause problems with relationships, school and job performance, as well as self-esteem. It can also result in substance abuse and unhealthy coping strategies like binge eating. Symptoms can also vary during various stages of life. Hormonal fluctuations, for instance can affect the severity of symptoms. Mood swings are often interpreted by others as depression or anxiety and can delay a diagnosis. The World Health Organization has developed a new online screening tool to diagnose adult ADHD. The tool was developed specifically for women and utilizes real-life situations to create questions that a healthcare professional could answer. It helps identify the most common ADHD symptoms among women and provide information that can be shared with 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. Scores are calculated, which shows the severity of your symptoms based on your responses. The test can be completed online and is free. It is important to keep in mind that the screening tool cannot replace a thorough assessment of your situation. It should only be used along with an ADHD consultation. Women suffering from ADHD who seek treatment often find that their life quality increases dramatically. The right treatment can enhance relationships, aid them in achieving success at work and in school, and help them to understand themselves better. It is also important to have support systems in place. You can achieve this by joining a support network or finding a coach who has expertise working with women.