Symptoms of ADHD in Adult Women
Women and girls can have ADHD. While men and boys are diagnosed with ADHD more frequently, it is also possible for women to suffer from the disorder. But persistent stereotypes, referral biases internalized symptoms and comorbidities make it harder for them to be properly evaluated and treated.
Many women develop coping strategies to mask their ADHD symptoms and meet societal expectations, but these can be unhealthy and unsustainable. Here are some of the most commonly reported symptoms of ADHD in adult women.
1. Unfocused attention
Women suffering from ADHD are often overwhelmed by daily tasks. It is often difficult to keep track of deadlines, emails, and meetings. They could also be more likely to forget important events or appointments. They might also have trouble concentrating in noisy or busy environments. inattentive ADHD in adults symptoms could result in missed opportunities as well as a lower level of productivity.
For many people with ADHD, these challenges can feel like an expression of their character or performance, which can lead to frustration. They may suffer from low self-esteem and negative image of their body. They may also have difficulty to maintain stable relationships and develop effective coping strategies. In some instances, they resort to unhealthy coping strategies like excessive drinking or drugs. This can make it difficult for others to recognize the signs of struggle and delay an accurate diagnosis.
Adults with ADHD are often sensitive to failure and criticism which can cause them to internalize their issues and have difficulty seeking help. They might also be afflicted by relationship problems and struggle to find work that is meaningful. They may also be more susceptible to anxiety, depression and mood swings. In some instances, these symptoms can result in the development of a mental health issue like non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) which could be manifested through burning, cutting, or scratching.
ADHD is more common among both boys and men, but symptoms can last and affect many areas of your life. Women must recognize the symptoms and seek out an evaluation from a healthcare professional. A positive diagnosis can lead to better management of symptoms and a higher quality of life.
2. Disorganization
Women suffering from ADHD are often overwhelmed and feel as if their lives are in chaos. They may not meet deadlines or find it difficult to keep track of household chores, such as paying bills and keeping appointments. They may be disorganized with their home and finances, and could struggle to maintain stable relationships and a job.
Inattention ADHD symptoms can cause frustration and confusion in relationships with friends, partners and colleagues. These issues can result in strained or even broken connections and feelings of isolation. The inability to listen, forgetfulness and a tendency "zone out" in conversations can also contribute to misunderstandings and arguments with loved ones.
Signs of emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and mood swings are more common in women with ADHD than in men and can be disruptive to personal and professional life. Women with untreated ADHD may feel overwhelmed by the demands of family, work and the social world. They may also be sensitive to harsh judgment and criticism.
The good news is that there are options to manage the impact of these symptoms. For many adults treatments include lifestyle modifications and the use of specialized organizational tools and prescription stimulant medications.
Women who suffer from ADHD might be able to cover up their ADHD symptoms better than males which could lead to an undiagnosed condition until adulthood. They are also more likely to have multiple disorders that are comorbid, like anxiety and depression that can increase the effects of untreated ADHD. Women may also struggle to keep stable relationships and jobs, and may suffer from low self esteem and chronic stress. *Sex refers to the chromosomes and hormones; gender is the internal belief in oneself as a man, woman, nonbinary or any other gender identity. Mental health problems are often diagnoses in relation to both.
3. Anxiety
Women who have ADHD are more susceptible to depression and anxiety. These feelings can become more severe when you're unable to keep the track of your daily tasks and appointments. This can lead to health issues such as missed health checkups or payments that are late, or even debt. The emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and apathy of ADHD can also cause issues with relationships with partners, coworkers and even friends.
Many women develop coping mechanisms to hide their problems that can make it difficult for others to recognize that they are struggling to stay focused and organized. These strategies for coping may be healthy, such as creating an agenda for the day or establishing phone reminders or they could be harmful depending on alcohol or drugs to help them function or cope with their difficulties. These strategies for coping can make women feel anxious and unsure which can cause them to doubt their abilities and self-confidence. This can lead to feelings of anxiety or depression.
In addition, women with ADHD frequently feel the pressure of not fitting in or meeting the expectations of society, which can lead to feelings of self-doubt and anger. They may also face challenges at work, including difficulties with organizational skills and adhering to corporate guidelines or adhering to a routine 9-to-5 schedule. They may be struggling with managing their finances because of their indecisiveness and uncontrolled spending, or they may be unable to keep up with work-related assignments or finishing homework.
ADHD can be a lifelong condition that requires continuous assistance, particularly when it affects girls and women. Despite the disorder's prevalence however, it's still undiagnosed, misunderstood, and not treated. The distinctive symptoms of ADHD in women are the result of stereotypes and referral biases, as well as internalized symptomatology, comorbidities and hormonal changes.
4. Impulsivity
Women with ADHD may have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They may become easily frustrated or overly excited, and may lose track of their time or be late for events. They may also have difficulties understanding body language and recognizing social signals. This can cause problems at work or with relationships. For example, they might get into arguments easily or spend too much time in pursuit of hobbies and interests that aren't important to them. They might also have trouble maintaining friendships or creating new connections due to the fact that they struggle to follow through on promises and commitments.
Women are generally better in developing coping mechanisms to help them mask their ADHD symptoms, which is why it's more difficult for them to be diagnosed than men are. They could, for instance, develop routines that aid in staying organized or utilize apps to remind them of their appointments. They may also alter their behaviour to comply with societal expectations and norms. They may even try to conceal their symptoms by using alcohol or drugs. This could have serious health consequences over time.
Many people suffering from ADHD overcome their symptoms, but others do not. About 60% of women who have ADHD in childhood will suffer from it into adulthood. This is in contrast to 30% of men.
Professional treatment can be beneficial for those who could not experience relief from medication or lifestyle changes. There are many options available, like career coaching, counseling, and life coaching. You can also take stimulants. Exercise is an effective method to improve your mood and increasing your energy. It releases neurotransmitters which boost motivation and focus. It can also reduce anxiety and stress.
5. Reactivity to emotional stimuli
Women and girls with ADHD are often afflicted by emotional hyperactivity. They may find it hard to regulate their emotions and express them appropriately and can cause anger with themselves and others. A person suffering from ADHD may become angry when a friend critiques them however she may not be able to discuss the matter in a rational manner. She may also struggle to "pause" her response by identifying body signals that indicate she's overwhelmed or overexcited like a flushed skin or a shortness of breath.
This issue with regulating their emotions can cause more stress and misunderstandings in relationships, and can make those with ADHD more prone to anxiety or depression. It can also cause difficulties with social interactions since it's difficult to gauge people's moods or pick up social cues.
In some cases, ADHD people may appear emotionally detached and uninterested towards their loved ones or friends even though they care about them. In what is adult ADHD symptoms may avoid situations that trigger emotions to avoid feeling an intense emotion.
Gender bias is common among medical professionals and the effects of ADHD on women are often overlooked because of the nature of their symptoms. Women often hide their ADHD symptoms and when they do show up they are more likely to be misdiagnosed as anxiety or mood disorders. If you're experiencing these symptoms, it might be beneficial to talk to an experienced mental health professional who has experience in working with girls and women who suffer from ADHD. They can help validate your experiences, guide you how to use strategies like pacing and self-awareness and provide psychoeducation for your family that can help you learn to recognize and respond to your ADHD symptoms in the future.