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Symptoms of ADHD in Adult Women Women and girls can have ADHD. While both men and boys are diagnosed with ADHD more frequently but it is also possible for women to be affected by the condition. But persistent stereotypes, referral bias, internalized symptoms and comorbidities can make it more difficult for them to be properly assessed and treated. These strategies can be unhealthy and ineffective. Here are a few of the adult women's most frequent ADHD symptoms. 1. Unfocused attention Women with ADHD tend to feel overwhelmed by the daily tasks. They often have a difficult time to keep track of numerous deadlines, emails, and meetings. They are also more likely to forget important appointments or events. They may also find it difficult to focus in noisy or busy environments. This could result in missed opportunities and a lower level of productivity. These issues can cause frustration for many people with ADHD. They may believe that they reflect of their own performance or of themselves. They can often have a low self-esteem and a negative image of themselves. They may also be struggling to maintain stable relationships and come up with effective strategies to cope. In some cases they will turn to unhealthy coping methods that include excessive alcohol or drugs. This can make it difficult for others to recognize that they're struggling and delay the diagnosis. Adults with ADHD can be especially sensitive to failure and criticism, which can cause them to internalize their difficulties and have difficulty seeking help. They may also have issues with relationships and may struggle to find work that is meaningful. They may also be more susceptible to depression, anxiety and mood swings. In certain cases, the symptoms can lead to a mental condition such as non-suicidal self-harm (NSSI) which could be expressed through cutting or burning. Although it's more common in men and boys to be diagnosed with ADHD The symptoms can last into adulthood and impact multiple areas of life. Women should be aware of the signs and seek an evaluation from a healthcare professional. A correct diagnosis can result in better-managed symptoms and a higher quality of life. 2. Disorganization Women with ADHD feel overwhelmed as if they are in chaos. They may not meet deadlines or find it difficult to keep track of household chores like paying bills and keeping appointments. They may be disorganized with their home and finances, and struggle to maintain stable relationships and an employment. Inattentive-type ADHD symptoms can heighten frustration and misunderstandings in relationships with partners, friends, and coworkers. These problems can lead to strained or even broken connections and feelings of isolation. Forgetfulness, difficulty listening and a tendency “zone out” in conversations could cause misunderstandings and arguments with loved ones. Signs of emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and mood swings are more frequent among women suffering from ADHD than in men and can be disruptive to personal and professional. Women who are not treated for ADHD can feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities and expectations of work, family as well as society. They are more prone to criticism or harsh judgement. The good news is that there are ways to control the effects of these symptoms. Treatment options for adults include lifestyle changes as well as the use of specific tools for organizing, as well as prescription stimulant drugs. Women who suffer from ADHD typically have a harder time than men to conceal their ADHD symptoms and, as a result, may go undiagnosed until they reach adulthood. They are more likely to be suffering from comorbid conditions like depression and anxiety, which can exacerbate the effects of untreated ADHD. Women can also have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships and a steady job, and can suffer from low self-esteem and chronic stress. *Sex refers to the person's genetic makeup, chromosomes, hormones, and anatomy; gender refers to the internal feeling of self as a man, woman or nonbinary gender identity; and mental health conditions are usually diagnosed based on both. 3. Anxiety Women with ADHD are more susceptible to anxiety and depression. These symptoms can be worsened when you're unable to keep on top of your daily activities and appointments. This could lead to health issues like missed appointments, late payments and even debt. ADHD can cause emotional dysregulation, impulsivity and forgetfulness and can cause relationships problems with partners, friends and coworkers. Many women develop strategies to hide their symptoms. This makes it difficult for others to notice that they have difficulty staying focused and organized. These coping mechanisms may be healthy like creating a daily schedule, or a phone reminder or even unhealthy, such as relying on drugs or alcohol to function or cope. These coping skills can create an unhealthy cycle of stress and self-doubt for women, causing them to feel like they are not doing enough or productive, which may increase feelings of anxiety and depression. Women with ADHD might also feel that they aren't accepted or don't conform to social norms. This can cause anxiety and low self-esteem. They may also experience challenges at work, including issues with organization skills, following corporate policies, or adhering to a 9-to-5 routine. They may have difficulty managing their finances due in part to disorganization or impulsive spending. Or, they may have trouble keeping up with work assignments or completing homework. ADHD can be a lifelong condition that requires continuous assistance, particularly when it affects women and girls. Despite its prevalence this disorder is misunderstood and underdiagnosed. It is also undertreated. The lingering stigmas as well as referral biases internalized symptoms, comorbidities and hormonal changes all contribute to the unique symptom presentation of ADHD in females. 4. Impulsivity Women suffering from ADHD can have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They could be easily upset or excited, lose track of time or be late to events. They may also have difficulty understanding body language or picking up on social signals. This could cause issues at work or with relationships. For instance, they could be easily entangled in arguments or spend too much time with hobbies and interests that aren't important to them. They may also have difficulty keeping friendships or making connections due to their inability to keep their promises and commitments. Women are generally better in developing coping mechanisms to help them mask their ADHD symptoms, which is why it's difficult for them to be diagnosed than men. They might, for example, develop routines that aid in staying organized or utilize apps to remind them of their appointments. They could also alter their behavior to conform with norms and expectations set by society. They could even conceal their symptoms by using drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms, which could have serious health problems in the long run. Certain people with ADHD do not outgrow the symptoms. Around 60% of women suffering from ADHD during childhood will have it into adulthood. This compares to 30% of men. If you're unable to achieve relief with medication or lifestyle changes, professional treatment can be beneficial. There are many options, including life coaching, career coaching, and counseling together with stimulants and medications. Exercise is a fantastic method of improving your mood and boosting your energy. It releases neurotransmitters to boost the ability to focus and motivate and can reduce anxiety and stress. 5. Reactivity to emotional stimuli Girls and women with ADHD often struggle with emotional hyperactivity. They may have trouble regulating their emotions and how they express them. This can lead to frustration for themselves as well as others. For instance, a woman with ADHD may become angry when her spouse critiques her, but she might not be able to settle down and talk about the issue in a rational way. It is also possible that she struggles to “pause” her reactions by recognizing bodily signals that indicate she's getting overexcited or overwhelmed, such as flushing skin or breath shortness. This inability to regulate emotions can lead to frustration and misunderstandings and make those with ADHD susceptible to depression or anxiety. It can also lead to difficulties with social interactions since it's difficult to gauge people's moods or detect social cues. In severe ADHD symptoms in adults , people who suffer from ADHD might appear emotionally distant and uninterested in their family or loved ones, even when they genuinely care about them. In some cases, they may avoid situations that trigger strong emotions to avoid experiencing them. The nature of women's symptoms could make it easier for doctors to ignore the effects of ADHD. Many women conceal their ADHD symptoms and when they do manifest 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 a mental health professional experienced in working with women and girls with ADHD. They can help you validate your experiences, guide you how to utilize strategies like pacing and self-awareness and offer family psychoeducation that can help you learn to recognize and respond to your ADHD symptoms in the future.