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ADHD in Women is Underdiagnosed Women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) who have ADHD often conceal their symptoms. This makes it harder to be diagnosed. To be eligible for ADHD to be recognized, symptoms must have been present since the age of a child. This is technically before the age of 12 years old. Doctors may interview close friends and family members. Take this test to determine how your symptoms compare to those of a woman with ADHD. This test doesn't diagnose anything, but it can give your healthcare professional an understanding of your requirements. Symptoms ADHD can be a problem for adults too. It's broken down into two subtypes: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Some experts believe the inattentive form of ADHD is more frequent among women. Symptoms of this subtype are less apparent than those of the other two and typically manifest as symptoms that are internal, such as the difficulty in staying focused or a frequent daydreaming. Inattention ADHD symptoms in women can include inattention deficit, forgetfulness in class or at work, and inadequate time management abilities. They may also have difficulty keeping track of their bills, appointments, or completing household tasks. Women may compensate for these problems by working harder or trying to be more organized. This can backfire and cause frustration. Some women resort unhealthy methods of coping, like drinking or taking drugs. You should speak to your doctor or mental health professional if you suspect you might have ADHD. They can help you identify your symptoms and recommend you to a specialist if necessary. Your doctor will want to know your medical history, family history, and any other mental health issues you may have that could mimic the effects of ADHD. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders defines five ongoing symptoms that satisfy the criteria for an ADHD diagnoses. You must have at least three of these symptoms to be diagnosed with inattentive ADHD or at least four of the hyperactive-impulsive symptoms to be diagnosed with the combined type of ADHD. Your symptoms have to have been present for at least six months in order to be diagnosed with one of the types of ADHD. They should also have a negative impact on your daily life and affect how you function. You can lessen the symptoms by eating an exercise and diet plan that is healthy and regularly. You can also limit your intake of processed and sugary foods. You can also practice mindfulness meditation to help calm your body and mind to manage impulsiveness and distraction and promote restful sleeping. You could also discuss with your doctor the possibility of taking medication to treat ADHD symptoms. Diagnosis Getting a diagnosis for ADHD is an important step toward managing symptoms and living the life you want. However it's not something you can do on your own. A mental health professional will be required to evaluate your symptoms and conduct an extensive physical exam. A medical doctor will also examine your medical history to rule out other problems that can mimic ADHD. In many cases, those who are diagnosed with ADHD seek treatment immediately. There are two types of medications that treat the disorder: stimulants or non-stimulants. Stimulants are more popular because they are quicker in their action and have a longer lasting effect than non stimulants. The kind of medication that your therapist or psychiatrist prescribes for you will depend on your specific needs. It is recommended to discuss your options with them to ensure they can make the best decision regarding your symptoms. While ADHD is more prevalent in boys and men however, women who are cisgender can be affected by the same symptoms. However, More to the gender discrimination and the fact that many doctors aren't aware of the ways ADHD can affect women, it is more difficult for women to receive a proper diagnosis as adults. This assessment was designed by keeping the experiences of real ADHD women in mind. It is based off the DSM-5 criteria, but is broken down into symptoms for women. While it cannot diagnose you however, it can be used to initiate conversations with a therapist or a medical doctor about your symptoms. When you go to the evaluator, you must bring all your symptoms as well as any other records that could be relevant, like performance evaluations from your job or old test results. The evaluator will examine the records to determine whether your symptoms match the DSM-5 criteria. The evaluator might also ask you questions about your routine and lifestyle in order to determine the severity of your symptoms. For instance, the evaluator will want to know how long your ADHD symptoms have been present and how they've affected with your life. They will also review your medical history and conduct tests to rule out other conditions that might cause similar symptoms. Treatment The management of ADHD in adulthood can be a challenge However, treatments are available. The most common treatment is medication. They can ease symptoms and control brain activity, but they must be prescribed and administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The stimulant medications are typically the first choice, but non-stimulants may also be used in certain instances. Your doctor might also suggest neuropsychological or psychological tests to determine the effects of coexisting conditions such as anxiety or depression. ADHD symptoms can hinder personal growth and relationships. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to have a harder in recognizing social cues as well as recognizing body language which can result in poor communication skills. This can lead to difficulties at work and at home. Women with ADHD are also at a higher risk of developing mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety. It is estimated that 60% of people suffering from ADHD are still suffering from symptoms in adulthood. Women are also less likely than men to outgrow the condition. The most important step in finding a diagnosis and addressing ADHD is recognizing. As adults age, ADHD symptoms are easier to manage. However, it's difficult for them to get the help and support they need. The good news is that the current research on ADHD is geared toward understanding its effects on women, and advances in diagnosis and treatment are being made. Many women with ADHD are able to benefit from lifestyle changes and therapeutic approaches in addition to medications. Women who suffer from ADHD benefit by working closely with an ADHD coach, who can help them create organizational strategies and structures to boost their efficiency and overall quality of life. Other treatment options include cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches them to accept their thoughts and feelings, while switching negative thinking patterns to healthier ones. Some women may also benefit from family therapy and counseling for marital issues. They are able to communicate better with their partners and resolve conflicts. Healthy sleeping habits can help manage symptoms of ADHD such as difficulty sleeping and staying awake. This includes a regular sleep routine, listening to relaxing to music or listening to an audiobook and staying away from electronics before bed. Support Despite the fact that ADHD in women is not well-diagnosed There are plenty of resources and a whole community of people ready to assist you. If you're not sure where to begin, consult your primary care doctor for recommendations or phone your insurance provider to request an ADHD specialist in your area. It's also an excellent idea to search for an ADHD support group in your area. Many of these groups can help you find health care specialists who are proficient in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults and can offer a welcoming environment. Doctors may have difficulty diagnosing women and girls with ADHD because they typically exhibit different symptoms than men and boys. Some doctors may not be aware of or underestimate these differences, leading to inaccurate diagnoses and ineffective treatment strategies. This is especially true when it comes the hyperactive impulsive and inattentional ADHD symptoms. You can take an online test for female ADHD If you think you might be suffering from the disorder. This free tool for screening was designed with real ADHD women's experiences in mind. It is based on DSM 5 and is a screening tool based on DSM 5 Criteria. It is not a diagnostic test and should be followed by professional advice. Please note that this piece uses the words “male” and “female” to refer to gender, but we believe in using gender identities that reflect a person's affirmed gender identity.