Adult ADHD Symptoms Women and Girls May Not Know About
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD are not diagnosed, or go undiagnosed, because their symptoms are different from men's. For instance, they might experience more emotional volatility or have difficulty controlling their emotions.
Finding a therapist or counselor who is knowledgeable about ADHD in women can make a huge difference in turning your individual challenges into strengths.
1. Inattentiveness
The signs of inattention ADHD for adults can include difficulty keeping on top of household and appointment tasks, ignoring deadlines at work, and having trouble to remain focused during meetings. It's also common for people with inattention ADHD to experience a condition called "time blindness," meaning that they frequently forget the time or get so engulfed in their task that they lose track of how long it has taken. This can lead to feelings of being disorganized and unprepared, or perhaps irresponsible.
Women with inattentive ADHD are particularly good at showcasing their symptoms, which may make it difficult for them to receive a diagnosis. They might have learned to compensate for their inability to keep track of things through strategies for coping such as self-denial or relying on other people and resorting to unhealthy behaviors such as excessive alcohol or drug abuse.
As a result, their difficulties with focus and organization may be overlooked by others until they realize their own issues. They may have a long list of embarrassing moments where they have embarrassed their coworkers or friends. They may also struggle to keep their apartment and homes neat and tidy and are overwhelmed by the amount of work they have to do.
Untreated and undiagnosed symptoms of inattention ADHD can affect almost every aspect of their life. They might be left out of occasions for professional or social gatherings because they're not invited, or fail to pay their bills or return friend's phone calls in a timely manner. They might rush through a test or not understand instructions in the workplace or commit a few blunders in their relationships with others. At some point, they believe they are incompetent or foolish, and struggle with low self-esteem and confidence.
2. Hyperactivity
Hyperactive ADHD can cause people to fumble in their seats, talk excessively, or shake their heads. They have difficulty paying attention to what other people are talking about. They often interrupt or make statements that they don't consider. They are easily distracted and bored by activities which do not entice them. The behavior isn't triggered by a desire for defiance or a lack in comprehension it is a biological abnormality in the frontal lobes (Tripp & Wickens 2009).
Those with inattentive ADHD are more likely to forget appointments or lose keys than others. People with this type of ADHD also tend to lose all important information, such as bills or work assignments. They often forget or lose eyeglasses, as well as other items like keys, wallets, school materials such as sports equipment, etc. They are often unable to keep an occupation and often start projects, but do not complete them.
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD find themselves feeling better about themselves once their symptoms are under control. This is especially true for those who have been suffering for a long time with the false impression that they are incompetent or lazy because of their procrastination indecisiveness, and disorganization.
Stress, other mental health disorders, as well as physical illnesses can cause similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD. symptoms of adult add will require an exhaustive examination to determine the root cause of the symptoms, and then determine the most effective treatment. They might ask your permission to speak to your family members, colleagues and teachers to get more information about your past and present behavior. They might also perform psychological tests such as the Rotterdam Test for Attention Disorders and the Beck Cognitive Abnormality Inventory.
3. Impulsivity
ADHD can make stopping and taking a breath a challenge, especially when the situation is stressful. You might feel compelled by your ADHD to tackle a problem even though you should plan and take your time. This impulsivity may lead to problems at work, in school, or in your relationships. You may also experience problems with your finances, driving, or managing your home.
add symptoms in adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD because the symptoms of ADHD are less obvious. They may cover up their symptoms by claiming to be being dependable and conscientious. This can give a false sense of security, and make it easier for others to dismiss them as a problem-child, excessively emotional or a perfectionist. This can lead to an undiagnosed lifetime of ADHD can do serious damage to your self-esteem.
If you have the inattentive-type subtype of ADHD, you experience at least five ongoing symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity. These symptoms must be present at work and at home and interfere with your ability to function.
You might have a hard working through school or work tasks and are often seen as unorganized and disorganized. You may have difficulty waiting in line, sat down or staying focused while reading or working on your computer, or doing household chores. You may want to be more creative than the monotony of your day, and you may procrastinate or avoid tasks to avoid them. While the inattention and impulsivity that are characteristic of ADHD are a part of anxiety, feelings of restlessness, fidgeting and forgetfulness are usually not seen in these disorders. The symptoms of ADHD are prone to change as you age, and are exacerbated by hormonal changes, such as menopausal and pregnancy.
4. Rejection Sensitivity
Rejection sensitivity (RSD) is a mental health condition that is characterized by extreme negative emotions and difficulty regulating emotions. It can cause emotional turmoil and affect many aspects of everyday life. People with rejection sensitivity feel more emotional reactions to social cues that may be perceived as rejection, compared to other people. They may feel shame, low self-esteem, and emotional dysregulation when faced with rejection, whether real or perceived. This is a typical symptom of people with ADHD or Autism, but can also happen to those without these conditions.
RSD can trigger an impulsive behavior and relationship issues. It can also make people avoid taking risks, which could limit their career as well as personal growth. It can lead to depression and self-esteem issues in some. RSD is also known to exacerbate and amplify core ADHD symptoms, including time blindness. This can cause problems with organisation and planning as well as the inability to focus time on irrelevant tasks. RSD can also lead to issues with focus and attention span. People with RSD might ponder a slight over hours or even days.
Researchers have discovered that those with RSD may have a brain disorder that affects the way they process emotional information. This could be because the amygdala brain, which is responsible for the body's response to threats and is activated more than other people when they perceive rejection. It is also believed that people who feel a sensitivity to rejection might have experienced childhood trauma which could have lasting impacts on their emotional development. They may be more sensitive to criticism, rejection, and abandonment in the adult years. Other mental health disorders that are co-occurring such as anxiety or depression can also affect RSD by impacting emotional regulation.
5. Gender-specific behaviors that are gender specific
Many people suffering from ADHD develop the disorder during their childhood, and almost always have a diagnosis before the age of 12. The symptoms tend to last until adulthood this means that women who have the disorder may have difficulties at school or at work as well as at home and in relationships. They may also be struggling with anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders. Undiagnosed ADHD can have a negative impact on women's self-esteem. They may blame themselves, believing they are "lazy", "irresponsible" or "stupid".
Gender bias plays a part in how women and girls are perceived when they display ADHD symptoms. Boys with the condition typically display hyperactive behaviors that are easy for teachers and parents to spot, whereas girls who have those same symptoms might be accused of being daydreamy or hyperactive. This makes it difficult for them to receive the support they require.
Furthermore, girls who have the disorder are more likely experience mood disorders and anxiety than boys with the condition. They are also more likely to to mask their symptoms using strategies to cope that are typical of the gender they identify with, which can make it more difficult for others to realize that they are suffering from an issue.
For instance, women suffering from ADHD might use excessive makeup or dress in a certain way so that they don't notice their symptoms. They may also engage in risky behaviours such as excessive alcohol or drug use, particularly during adolescence. They may not seek assistance until it's too late.