ADHD in Adult Women
Women who have not been diagnosed with ADHD might develop strategies to manage their symptoms, making it difficult for others to see that they're struggling. They might also find it more difficult to be diagnosed especially when a woman goes through menopause or perimenopausal.
Treatment for women who are older and have ADHD usually involves treatment and medication. Stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts may help, as well as nonstimulants such as atomoxetine and antidepressants.
Symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult in recognizing the signs than men or boys. This can make it difficult for them to get a diagnosis and receive treatment. They may also resort to strategies to cope, such as hiding their symptoms or mimicking other people. This can affect their self-esteem, confidence, and make them unaware that they struggle.
Adult adhd symptoms in women are characterized by a lack of coordination and forgetfulness. The tendency to be impulsive is another sign. Women and girls suffering from the condition may have difficulty controlling their emotions. This can lead to emotional outbursts that can harm relationships and result in low self-esteem. These symptoms can be made worse by hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles and pregnancy or menopausal.
If you've been diagnosed as having adult adhd, your doctor will likely recommend therapy to help you manage your symptoms. It could be cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which will help you identify and change negative thinking patterns for more positive ones, or family counseling. Your doctor may also recommend support groups for women suffering from the condition, which could provide you with a safe space to share your experience and seek advice.
In addition to medications, many sufferers with ADHD benefit from other treatments that enhance their lives, including lifestyle changes, for example, creating a routine and using sleep aids. You can improve your sleep habits by creating a relaxing routine before bed, listening to soothing audiobooks or music before going to bed, and restricting the time you spend on screens before going to bed. You can also try calming techniques, such as deep breathing or visualizing an area that is calm.
In some cases doctors may request you to be referred to a specialist. This can aid in getting a better evaluation and treatment for your overall health. This can aid your doctor in finding the right medication for yourself. A psychiatrist is able to prescribe stimulant medications, whereas a general practitioner will prescribe non-stimulants. Both types of medication can be effective for treating adults suffering from ADHD. You should follow your doctor's instructions because side effects may vary based on the medication type and your sensitivity.
Treatment
Women with ADHD might benefit from a variety of treatments, like medication management. They should start by talking with their primary care physician. If needed their doctor will refer them to a specialist in mental health. The initial assessment will typically consist of a thorough medical history, questions about their symptoms, and the impact on their work, school and relationships.
Women who suffer from ADHD often build coping mechanisms that mask their symptoms and assist them to comply with norms and expectations of society. This can make it difficult to diagnose and treat 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 popular treatment for ADHD is with stimulant drugs, such as methylphenidate. NIMH describes the medication as "a fast acting and effective treatment for ADHD in adults." It can trigger a variety of side effects and result in substance abuse if not properly used.
Some people believe that the best way to treat their symptoms is to use an array of drugs. The exact dose and combination will depend on the individual's requirements as well as medical history and symptoms.
Certain people with ADHD can benefit from therapy or other psychological interventions. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps people transform negative thoughts into more positive ones. It is also beneficial for those suffering from anxiety disorders or depression with co-occurring symptoms.
Along with therapy lifestyle changes and other self-help techniques can improve the quality of life of those suffering from ADHD. This includes learning techniques for managing time as well as getting enough rest and exercise, reducing intake of caffeine and sugar, and ensuring a regular schedule. It's also important to establish limits with family and friends members. Not to mention, adult adhd in women with ADHD should seek help from groups and organizations If they haven't previously.
Certain people with ADHD participate in clinical trials that test new approaches to diagnosing the condition, treating it and preventing it. Consult your doctor about opportunities for clinical trials. The NIMH's Clinical Trials page provides information about how to find a study that might be right for you.
Medication
ADHD medication is usually stimulants. However, for some adults, non-stimulant medications could be more efficient. Your doctor will prescribe the best drug for you according to your symptoms age, stage of life. They'll also consider whether you have any other health issues or take specific medication for anxiety or depression, which could interact with or cause a conflict with ADHD medications.
Girls with ADHD are less likely to receive a diagnosis due to the fact that their symptoms are typically focused on and are not noticed by teachers or parents. It is also possible that they cover the signs with socially acceptable behaviors like daydreaming or excessive makeup and make it difficult for doctors to identify their symptoms. Finding out that you have a diagnosis as an adult could be a "lightbulb moment" for many women, offering them an external explanation for their problems they've always chalked up to stress or bad habits.
Medications can help improve concentration and organizational skills, but they're not an effective treatment. Your doctor might also suggest therapy and counseling, job and homelife accommodations and lifestyle changes to help manage your symptoms. Finding the right treatment combination may take time. Your doctor will assess your progress on a regular basis and alter the treatment plan as necessary.
In general, women respond more well to stimulant medication than men however, it doesn't mean that non-stimulants shouldn't be an alternative. Clonidine (Kapvay) or guanfacine, (Intuniv and Tenex), are both blood pressure medications which can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can cause adverse effects such as dry mouth and heartburn, but they are more likely to fade after a time.
While you're being treated for ADHD, try to focus on eating healthy and getting enough sleep which can help to regulate your hormone levels. You may also discuss with your doctor the possibility of participating in a trial. These studies look for new methods to prevent, detect, or treat conditions and diseases. But keep in mind that any clinical trial doesn't guarantee that you'll benefit from it. The study could have serious or even harmful side effects, and it's important to consider the risks and benefits carefully before agreeing to take part.
Self-help
Women who suffer from ADHD have unique issues. Recognizing these differences is an important first step towards finding support and locating treatment options. Treatment options include counseling, medication management, therapy, lifestyle changes, workplace and homelife adjustments. Medication can help regulate brain activity and control symptoms. A qualified health expert will be able to recommend the combination of medications that are most appropriate for each woman's situation.
Many of the symptoms of ADHD for women are due to internal pressures and gender stereotypes. Women can develop unhealthy or healthy coping strategies to hide their symptoms. Women are more likely to suffer from coexisting disorders like anxiety or depression and can make symptoms worse. Pregnancy or menstrual cycles can cause symptoms.
A good night's sleep and taking time to relax are essential for women suffering from ADHD. Exercise can boost energy and release dopamine (the feel-good hormone), which can increase focus and concentration. Regular social interactions with friends can improve moods and help deal with the challenges of ADHD.
Women with undiagnosed ADHD are at risk of significant negative impacts on their lives. This includes financial and relationship issues, addiction to substances and increased health risk. In one study, researchers found that women who had not been treated for ADHD had less life expectancy than women who received a diagnosis and proper treatment.
It is crucial for women suffering from undiagnosed ADHD to undergo a thorough examination by a medical professional or mental health specialist. A thorough examination and evaluation can help identify physical and mental conditions that can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. For instance depression, anxiety and some physical ailments can trigger symptoms of ADHD in women. Psychological therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help a woman learn better ways of thinking and habits to manage her ADHD. Family therapy and marriage counseling can aid a woman in her relationships, which are frequently affected by ADHD symptoms. ADHD coaches can assist women develop goals and structures to achieve her desired outcomes.