Understanding ADHD in Women

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that makes it hard for people to focus, stay still, and control their impulses. People with ADHD might daydream a lot, have trouble paying attention, fidget, or act without thinking. It's not just about being distracted or hyper; ADHD can affect how someone thinks, learns, and handles everyday tasks. [1]

ADHD is often thought of as a condition that mainly affects children, especially boys. However, many women also live with ADHD, often without even knowing it. This can lead to significant challenges in various aspects of life. Understanding how ADHD manifests in women can help you or your loved ones seek the right support and treatment. This guide explores what ADHD looks like in women, the challenges of getting a diagnosis, and holistic ways to manage it.

What Does ADHD Look Like in Women?
ADHD can show up differently in women than in men. While boys often display hyperactivity and impulsiveness, women tend to have more subtle symptoms that are easily overlooked [2]. Common signs of ADHD in women include:

- Difficulty Focusing: Struggling to pay attention, being forgetful, and having trouble organizing tasks.

- Emotional Sensitivity: Experiencing mood swings, feeling easily overwhelmed, and having low self-esteem.

- Intense Focus: Becoming deeply absorbed in activities of interest, which can lead to neglecting other important tasks.

- Internal Restlessness: Feeling constantly on edge or internally restless, even if you appear calm on the outside.

Why Is ADHD in Women Often Missed? [3]

- Societal Expectations: Society often expects women to be organized, attentive, and emotionally steady. Many women with ADHD work hard to meet these expectations, sometimes hiding their symptoms from others and even from themselves. This can make it harder to recognize and diagnose ADHD.

-Overlapping Conditions: ADHD in women often occurs alongside other conditions like anxiety, depression, or eating disorders. These can mask ADHD symptoms, making it harder to pinpoint the root cause of your struggles, or even blinding clinicians to the possibility of an ADHD diagnosis.

-Biased Diagnostic Tools: Tests like the Conners’ 10-item screener, often used to check for ADHD, mainly look for restlessness, fidgeting, and other hyperactive behaviors, which are more common in boys with ADHD. They don’t focus as much on signs of inattention and emotional ups and downs, which are more common in girls. Also, most tests miss the problems with planning and organizing that many women with ADHD have.

-Clinical Samples Rarely Match the General Population: The type of sample used in an ADHD study can greatly affect the results. What is true in general samples may not be true in clinical samples, and vice versa. The "combined" ADHD type, which often causes the most problems, is more common in clinical samples of both boys and girls. However, in general community samples, girls are more likely to have the inattentive type of ADHD. As a result, research on ADHD often includes girls and women with severe issues, while those who can hide their symptoms or compensate better might be missed. This means that inattentive girls and women, who can also be very affected, are often overlooked in research data.

Managing ADHD: A Holistic Approach
Managing ADHD effectively involves looking at the whole person and using a variety of strategies. Here are some approaches that can help:

-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can be beneficial for women with ADHD. CBT can teach skills like organization, time management, and how to handle emotions and impulses.

-Person-Centered Therapy (PCT): PCT focuses on creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment. This can be very beneficial for individuals with ADHD, who might feel misunderstood or criticized by others. The therapist provides unconditional positive regard, meaning they accept the client without judgment. This can help clients realize their potential and grow as individuals. It supports them in finding their own solutions and developing their own strategies to manage ADHD symptoms.

-Adlerian Psychotherapy: Adlerian Therapy emphasizes the client’s capacity for self-direction and empowerment. For individuals with ADHD, this means they are encouraged to take an active role in their own treatment, making choices and setting goals that are meaningful to them.

-Psychoeducation: Learning more about ADHD can help individuals and their families understand the condition better and develop coping strategies. Psychoeducation often includes information about how ADHD affects the brain and behavior, as well as tips for managing symptoms.

-Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep hygiene can significantly improve ADHD symptoms. Mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga can also help you manage stress and stay focused.

-Nutritional Support: Certain nutrients are important for brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B6 can support cognitive function. Consulting with a naturopathic doctor about your diet can help you identify and address any deficiencies.

-Herbal Remedies: Western herbal remedies such as Ginkgo Biloba, Rhodiola Rosea, and Bacopa Monnieri have traditionally been used to support cognitive function. Always talk to your healthcare providers before starting any new supplements to ensure they're safe for you.

-Medication: For many women, medication may be a necessary part of managing ADHD. Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can be effective. Working with a healthcare provider to find the right medication and dosage is key to a successful treatment plan.

Seeking Support
If you think you might have ADHD, it’s important to seek professional help. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider who understands ADHD in women is the first step. Once diagnosed, a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, nutrition, and possibly medication can make a big difference.

Understanding and managing ADHD is a journey, but with the right support, you can thrive. Reach out to our office to schedule a free phone consultation to start creating a personalized plan that works for you.

Sources:
1. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-5. 5th ed., American Psychiatric Association, 2013. DSM-V
2. https://www.additudemag.com/what-does-adhd-look-like-in-women-misdiagnosis/
3. https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-in-women-girls-symptoms-diagnosis-recommendations/