What Are The ADHD Symptoms in Adult Women?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has long been stereotyped as a predominantly male condition. However, emerging evidence highlights the unique manifestation of ADHD in women. This blog focuses on the symptoms experienced by adult women with ADHD. It is important to note that there are different schools of thought surrounding ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders. While this blog focuses on the medical model’s perspective of ADHD by explaining symptomology, the neuro-affirmative approach recognises neurodiversity as a neurological variation, rather than a disorder. This approach advocates for accommodating diversity and promoting understanding and support for neurodivergent individuals. This approach aims to create inclusive environments that embrace and empower individuals with ADHD. ADHD Symptoms in Adult Women Recognizing ADHD symptoms in adult women requires an understanding of the subtleties of presentation. Since ADHD has been less commonly identified and diagnosed in young girls, these girls go on to develop coping mechanisms to mask their symptoms. This means recognising ADHD in adult women may present even more difficulty and may delay correct diagnoses further. This may also contribute to incorrect diagnoses (2). Contrary to traditional perceptions, women with ADHD exhibit symptoms that may differ from their male counterparts. While hyperactivity may be less overt, women commonly grapple with challenges in attention, focus, and organization. Emotional dysregulation and difficulties in time management are also prevalent (1). Women may experience chronic disorganization, difficulties in prioritizing tasks, and a persistent sense of restlessness. Emotional hypersensitivity and mood swings are also common symptoms that contribute to the unique ADHD profile in females (3). Evidence and Recognition: Research on ADHD in women is expanding, shedding light on the gender-specific nuances of the condition. Studies emphasize the importance of recognizing these differences to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate interventions tailored to the unique needs of women (4). Understanding ADHD symptoms in adult women is a crucial step toward dismantling stereotypes and fostering more accurate diagnoses. By acknowledging the distinct ways ADHD manifests in women, we empower healthcare providers, educators, and individuals themselves to navigate the exploration into ADHD with greater precision and compassion. It is best to get help from ADHD Psychologist to understand the ADHD symptoms in women, especially for adult. References: Footnotes Quinn, P. O. (2008). Gender issues in the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In G. Weiss & A. L. Rosenblatt (Eds.), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults and children (pp. 209-238). Cambridge University Press. Nadeau, K. G., & Quinn, P. O. (2002). Understanding Women with AD/HD. Advantage Books. Rucklidge, J. J. (2010). Gender differences in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatric Clinics, 33(2), 357-373. doi:10.1016/j.psc.2010.01.006 Biederman, J., Mick, E., & Faraone, S. V. (1998). Age-dependent decline of symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: impact of remission definition and symptom type. American Journal of Psychiatry, 155(9), 1287-1292. doi:10.1176/ajp.155.9.1287
ADHD Tests: What is ADHD?
ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts one’s ability to pay attention, sustain focus, sit still, and/or control and regulate his/her behaviours and emotions. Symptoms first start in early childhood and can continue to influence an individual’s functioning into adulthood. Common symptoms associated with ADHD may include the following: Daydreaming or zoning out Difficulty waiting in line or taking turns Forgetfulness Distractibility Challenges with sitting still or staying seated when necessary Excessive talking Interrupting or blurting out responses Tendency to make careless mistakes Trouble thinking before acting Difficulty managing one’s time Challenges with planning and organising tasks If you or someone you know exhibits similar symptoms, it may be worthwhile to seek out an ADHD assessment. Diagnosis with ADHD In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, an individual must experience challenges with attention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity, and these traits must be observable prior to age 12. Additionally, these symptoms must be present in at least two settings (e.g., at school, at home, at work, etc.) and must have a clinically significant impact on the individual’s daily functioning. There are three forms of ADHD: Predominately Inattentive Presentation Predominately Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation Combined Presentation It is important to note that symptoms of ADHD can change over time. When this occurs, the severity of one’s symptom presentation may be impacted. ADHD Assessment Process There is no one test that assesses ADHD; rather, the diagnostic process contains various steps to identify symptoms, assess the severity of the problem, and rule out other possibilities. During ADHD testing, you will work with a qualified professional who will complete the following: Clinical Interview The practitioner will ask questions about your symptoms and their impact on your daily functioning and your personal, socioemotional, educational, and occupational histories. Review of Records The practitioner may ask you to provide relevant records such as school reports, medical evaluations, or previous psychological assessments. External Interviews The practitioner may ask you to provide contact information for someone who can speak to your functioning in different settings. This can include parents, former teachers, medical providers, or bosses among others. Psychometric testing You may be asked to complete standardised psychological assessments that examine your cognitive abilities, memory, and executive functioning. Questionnaires You or someone who knows you well may be asked to complete various questionnaires regarding symptoms related to ADHD or other mental health conditions. ADHD Diagnostic Considerations There are numerous medical and mental health conditions that can contribute to problems with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. An ADHD assessment will seek to rule out conditions that may have a similar impact on an individual’s presentation. Some examples may include: Hearing and vision impairments Learning disorders Language disorders Mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression Sleep disturbances Traumatic brain injuries Neurological issues What to expect after ADHD testing? Following the ADHD testing process, an individualised evaluation which includes one’s background information, the examiner’s observations, the results of psychometric testing, and diagnostic impressions will be provided. Recommendations on how to limit the impact of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity in various settings will also be offered. Some common treatments for ADHD include: Individual and/or behavioural therapy Psychotropic medication interventions Occupational therapy or ADHD coaching Social skills trainings and/or social skills groups Parent trainings Seek help from a qualified professional If you suspect that you or a loved one may be exhibiting symptoms of ADHD, it may be worthwhile to seek guidance from a qualified professional. While ADHD testing may seem overwhelming, the practitioner with whom you work will try to make the assessment process as stress-free as possible. If the assessment process seems right for you, or if you want more information about if your symptoms might be attributable to ADHD, please do not hesitate to reach out to Laburnum Psychology team via email at admin@laburnumpsychology.com.au or by phone 03 9877 9179.