Signs And Symptoms Of ADHD In Women
When many women hear the term ‘ADHD,’ a certain image might come to mind: an animated young child, talking excessively and perhaps lacking the mental focus or impulse control to pay attention in class or heed their parents’ instructions.
However, there is a full range of experiences and symptoms that can be associated with ADHD that can differ from this presentation. Greater awareness of this condition can mean more effective treatment options and a greater degree of therapeutic intervention, particularly for women with ADHD.
Read on to learn more about the range of different ADHD symptoms in women and learn more about supportive strategies that can help people living with these conditions learn coping strategies, improve daily functioning, and attain a higher quality of life.
What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurobehavioral disorder that can affect people of all ages and genders. Typical assumed signs of ADHD can include patterns of hyperactive symptoms, impulsivity symptoms, inattention symptoms, defiant behavior, and lack of focus.
Though the symptoms typically overlap, there may be gender differences in ADHD symptoms. Women with ADHD can exhibit their symptoms differently from men, whereby they develop methods of coping that can mask the true nature of their condition. To better understand this disorder, especially the ADHD symptoms in women, it can help to take a brief look back at its history.
The history of ADHD
Before the 1960s, little was explicitly known about ADHD, as it was originally called hyperkinetic impulse disorder and believed to affect children, primarily. British pediatrician, Sir George Still, reportedly noticed certain children were unable to control their behavior in a typical fashion, even though they did not lack intelligence when tested.
Over the next half-century, clinical research and treatments of the disorder were thought to increase until the American Psychiatric Association (APA) formally recognized attention deficit disorder (ADD) as a neurodevelopmental disorder. Doctors and mental health practitioners began noting potential causes and obvious risk factors that led to more accurate diagnosis of the condition. Advances in clinical psychiatry also made various new treatments for ADHD available to patients.
At that time, many believed that boys were more prone to exhibit hyperactivity than girls. Thus, a majority of the recorded focus turned to treatment and research with males, possibly leading to undiagnosed ADHD in women and limiting useful treatment options.
As research continued into the 1990s, many believe that they had a greater degree of benefit. Having more clearly defined symptoms generally meant parents, teachers, and caregivers were reporting cases more often. Doctors were also able to more effectively diagnose their own patients with the disorder. The understanding of a chronic or neurodivergent presentation also became more widespread, having lasting positive impact.
ADHD symptoms
People with ADHD tend show signs of hyperactive behavior, difficulty focusing, time management challenges, and loss of focus when attempting to complete tasks.
Additionally, girls with ADHD may be described as being energetic and talkative when they display hyperactive traits. Conversely, they may seem disinterested, shy, or in a daydream when they show inattentive-subtype related traits.
For example: A girl living with symptoms of inattentiveness may not be likely to disrupt class with aberrant behavior. Some girls tend to sit silently, facing the teacher, appearing to listen and learn—when, in reality, their mind might be elsewhere.
ADHD symptoms in women
Common signs and symptoms of ADHD in women can include:
- Low self-esteem
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Forgetfulness and distractibility
- Difficulty sitting still and fidgetiness
- Erratic or impulsive behavior
- Disorganization
- Careless mistakes
- Overwhelming feelings
- Feelings of social ineptness
Additionally, ADHD in adult women can appear similar to other mental health conditions like anxiety disorders, obsessiveness, or depression—possibly making it harder for women to identify their own symptoms as ADHD and seek effective treatment.
The prevalence of ADHD in women
Women tend to report ADHD-aligned symptoms of inattentiveness, mood swings, or impulsive feelings that might have begun during their childhood. Some women might also carry feelings of low self-esteem or a negative self-image into adulthood.
An unfortunate aspect of reviewing the quantitative impact of ADHD is that a much larger number of women who live with ADHD may not be adequately treated for their condition. One finding estimates that 4.4% of adults in the U.S. have ADHD—however, the number of adult women with ADHD who go undiagnosed could be as high as 75%.
Additionally, according to one study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology (Vol. 56, No. 6) when women with ADHD sought professional care for their condition, some found that their treatments sometimes had only a minor positive effect—and in certain cases, some experienced an adverse impact on their overall health. This manifested in different ways depending on the patient in question, sometimes resulting in a deepening of their depression, an increase in substance use disorder or eating disorders.
If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.
Many researchers believe that there may be a family link to the prevalence of ADHD in female populations. Research has been done in this area of study to confirm the possible correlation. A set of twin studies conducted in 2005 suggests that there’s a 76% chance of ADHD being a heritable condition, which could support the early intervention and support of children living with ADHD.
Seeking help for ADHD
Many might wonder: What do you do if you think you have ADHD?
ADHD treatment can vary on a person-to-person basis. Only a certified mental health provider or physician can evaluate patients and provide an ADHD diagnosis. If you believe you’re experiencing challenges or symptoms that could be related to ADHD, you might consider speaking with your primary care provider. They may refer to you a mental health practitioner, possibly allowing them to better address your situation and recommend a plan of action. This might include medication, individual therapy, support groups, or a combination thereof.
How can online therapy help women? ADHD treatment options
More women are turning to online therapy for help with managing their ADHD, generally enjoying the ability to schedule support from the comfort of their own home or office. Session participants may feel more empowered to move around the room or wear more comfortable clothing, possibly facilitating a feeling of reception—whereas traditional in-person counseling settings may feel restrictive or distracting. Therapy can help women develop coping mechanisms and learn life management skills that support disease control.
An additional benefit of online therapy for women living with ADHD is that they can also schedule therapy sessions on their own time. For example: If they know when they tend to function best during the day, they can schedule appointments during that window – in-person therapy settings cannot always accommodate this kind of request.
Not only is online therapy convenient for women who might be experiencing challenges with ADHD, it is also clinically suggested to be proven useful and effective for various universal mental illnesses—including ADHD.
Takeaway
ADHD in women may require further study and discussion to help those living with the condition. Understanding the possible roots of ADHD and supportive strategies can help many come to terms with their symptoms and lead a more empowered life. Online therapy can be a valuable tool to enhance one’s quality of life. BetterHelp can connect you to online therapy in your area of need.
What are the symptoms of ADHD in grown women?
In adult women, ADHD may present symptoms such as inattentive symptoms, carelessness, talking excessively, being easily distracted, and challenges with time management and impulse control. Many women with ADHD tend to develop coping strategies to manage these symptoms, but they may still face challenges in various aspects of life management skills.
What does high functioning ADHD look like?
High-functioning ADHD might not be as easily recognizable, but individuals may still struggle with inattentiveness, time management, and impulse control. They might develop coping strategies to manage their symptoms and maintain productivity but may still experience internal challenges and stress.
Is ADHD an illness or coping mechanism?
ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder, not a coping mechanism. It is characterized by a range of symptoms including inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can affect daily functioning and quality of life.
What does untreated ADHD look like in women?
Untreated ADHD in women can lead to various negative consequences, including unhealthy relationships, career struggles, and mental health issues. Women might experience challenges in time management, be easily distracted, and make careless mistakes, which can impact their overall well-being.
When does ADHD peak in females?
ADHD does not have a specific peak age in females, but symptoms can present differently across the lifespan, sometimes exacerbated by hormone fluctuations during different life stages, such as puberty or menopause.
How does ADHD look different in females?
ADHD in females can often be less hyperactive and more inattentive, which is why inattentive ADHD is commonly diagnosed in women. Females might also internalize symptoms more, leading to difficulties with self-esteem and a higher risk of co-occurring mood disorders.
How do you test for ADHD in adults?
ADHD in adults is diagnosed through a comprehensive clinical evaluation, considering the individual’s history, current symptoms, and any impact on their daily functioning. A proper diagnosis is essential to develop an effective treatment plan, which might include commonly prescribed medications and behavioral therapy.
Does untreated ADHD get worse with age?
Untreated ADHD can lead to increased challenges over time, including difficulties in relationships, work, and mental health. Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent these challenges.
Why does ADHD go undiagnosed in females?
ADHD can go undiagnosed in females because it might present differently, often with less hyperactivity and more internalized symptoms. Many women develop coping strategies, which can sometimes mask the symptoms, delaying a proper diagnosis.
What does ADD look like in females?
ADD, now referred to as inattentive ADHD, can present in females as being easily distracted, making careless mistakes, difficulties with time management, and challenges in maintaining attention. It might also lead to struggles with self-esteem and unhealthy relationships if left undiagnosed and untreated.
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