What Is ADHD In Adult Women And Why You Should Care
ADHD in Adult Women Undiagnosed ADHD can cause women to develop coping mechanisms that mask their symptoms, making it more difficult to be noticed by others. They may be more difficult to get a diagnosis particularly when women go through menopausal or perimenopause. Adult women with ADHD are usually treated with therapy and medication. Stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts may help, as well as nonstimulants such as atomoxetine and antidepressants. Signs and symptoms Women with ADHD have a harder time recognizing the signs than males or females. This makes it more difficult for them to obtain an assessment and get treatment. In addition, they might employ different strategies to deal with their symptoms, such as using a mask or imitation of others, which can also impact their self-esteem and confidence. This can lead to an inability to recognize that they're struggling. The signs of adult adhd in women can include disorganization, difficulty focusing as well as impulsivity, forgetfulness and disorganization. Women and girls suffering from the condition can also have trouble controlling their emotions, which can trigger emotional outbursts which can cause damage to relationships and result in low self-esteem. These symptoms are made worse by hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. If you've been diagnosed as having adult adhd, your physician will likely recommend therapy to help you manage your symptoms. It could be cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in which you are able to recognize and exchange negative thoughts to positive ones, or counseling with your family. Your doctor may recommend that you join a support group for women who suffer from this condition. These groups can provide an appropriate place to discuss your experience and get advice. In addition to medications, many people suffering from ADHD benefit from other treatments that can enhance their lives by making lifestyle changes, such as developing a routine and using sleep aids. You can improve your sleeping habits by creating a relaxing routine before bedtime and listening to soothing audiobooks or songs before bed and limiting your screen time before going to bed. You can also employ techniques that help you relax like deep breathing and visualizing a calm environment. In some cases, a doctor might ask you to be referred to an expert. This can help to get a better evaluation and treatment for your overall health. It can also assist your doctor find the right medication for you. A psychiatrist will prescribe stimulant medications and a general practitioner will prescribe non-stimulants. Both types of medications are effective in treating adults suffering from ADHD. You should follow the directions of your physician, as side effects can differ based on the type of medication and your sensitivities. Treatment Women suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from a variety of treatments, including medication management. They should start by talking with their primary care physician. Then, if necessary their doctor can refer them to a mental health professional. The initial assessment typically includes a detailed medical history and questions about symptoms and the impact of those symptoms on school, work, and relationships. Women with ADHD frequently develop coping strategies that cover up their symptoms and assist them to conform to norms and expectations of society. This makes it more difficult to identify and diagnose ADHD. In addition, hyperactive/impulsive symptoms are more commonly associated with boys and men, so they may be less frequently recognized in girls and women. The most commonly used treatment for ADHD is stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate. NIMH describes this type of medication as “a rapid-acting, effective medication to treat ADHD in adults.” It can cause many side effects and cause addiction if not properly used. For some, the best medication is a combination of different medications to treat their symptoms. The exact mixture and dose will depend on the individual's needs, medical history and symptoms. Certain people suffering from ADHD may benefit from psychological or therapy interventions. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a common option that helps people change negative thoughts into healthier ones. It can be beneficial for people who have co-occurring anxiety or depression disorders. Along with therapy lifestyle changes, lifestyle modifications and other self-help methods can enhance the quality of life of people with ADHD. This includes practicing time management strategies as well as getting enough sleep and exercising as well as reducing sugar and caffeine intake, and keeping the same routine. It is important to establish boundaries with your family and friends. The last but not least, women with ADHD should seek support from groups and organisations in case they haven't previously. Some people with ADHD take part in clinical trials that test new approaches to diagnosing and treating conditions, as well as preventing them. Discuss with your doctor potential clinical trials. The NIMH Clinical Trials page has details on how to locate the study that is right for your requirements. Medication ADHD medication is typically stimulants. However, for certain adults, non-stimulant medication may be more efficient. Your doctor will prescribe you the best medication based on your symptoms and your age. They'll consider whether you suffer from other health conditions or take certain medication for anxiety or depression that may interact or conflict with ADHD meds. Girls with ADHD are less likely to be diagnosed, partly because their symptoms are more often inattention-based and are often not recognized by teachers or parents. They also have a tendency to conceal their symptoms with socially acceptable behaviors, like daydreaming and excessive makeup use, which can make it difficult for doctors to spot the symptoms. Many women find that getting a diagnosis as they age is a “lightbulb” moment because it provides them with an explanation for the problems they've always attributed to stress or bad habits. Medications can help improve concentration and organizational skills, but they're not a cure. Your doctor might recommend counseling and therapy along with job and homelife adjustments as well as lifestyle changes in order to manage your symptoms. Finding the best treatment combination will take some time. Your doctor will evaluate your progress regularly and modify the treatment plan as needed. Women tend to respond better to stimulant medications, however this doesn't mean that other stimulants shouldn't be prescribed. Clonidine (Kapvay), or guanfacine, (Intuniv and Tenex), are both blood pressure medicines that can reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can trigger side effects like heartburn and dry mouth however, they tend to wear off after a time. If you're being treated for ADHD, try to focus on eating healthy and getting enough sleep which will help you regulate your hormone levels. You can also talk to your doctor about taking part in a clinical trial. These trials are designed to uncover new ways to identify and prevent ailments and diseases. But keep in mind that a clinical trial isn't a guarantee that you will benefit from it. The study may have severe or even harmful side effects, and it's important to weigh the benefits and risks carefully before agreeing to take part. Self-help Women suffering from ADHD face unique challenges compared to men. Recognizing the differences is the first step towards gaining support and finding solutions. Effective treatment may include medication management, therapy and counseling, lifestyle modifications, workplace and homelife accommodations. The use of medication can help regulate the brain's activity and reduce symptoms. A qualified health expert will be able to suggest the right combination of medications that is most suitable for each woman's situation. Many of the symptoms of ADHD in women are related to internal pressures and gender stereotypes. Women may develop coping strategies to mask their symptoms, and these could be healthy or unhealthy. Women can also be more likely to suffer from coexisting disorders, like depression or anxiety and these conditions can exacerbate their symptoms. These symptoms are often caused by certain events, such as the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. A good night's sleep and relaxing is crucial for women with ADHD. Exercise can boost energy levels and release dopamine (the feel-good hormone) which can help increase focus and concentration. Regular social interactions with friends can boost moods and assist in manage the challenges of living with ADHD. Women with undiagnosed ADHD are at risk of significant negative impacts on their lives. This includes relationship and financial problems, substance misuse, and increased health risks. In one study, researchers found that women who had not been treated for ADHD had less life expectancy than those who had a diagnosis and proper treatment. Women who are not diagnosed with ADHD should receive a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional or healthcare provider. A thorough examination and evaluation will help determine if there are other mental and physical illnesses that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. For example depression, anxiety, and certain physical ailments can trigger symptoms of ADHD in some women. Psychological treatment, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help a woman learn better ways of thinking and habits to manage her ADHD. Family and marriage therapy can assist a woman with her relationships, which are frequently affected by ADHD symptoms. ADHD coaches can also assist a woman establish goals and create structures to reach her goals.