Ten Signs of ADHD in Women
By Antoinette Peterson
Ten Signs of ADHD in Women
Although both men and women can have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, it is diagnosed far more often in young boys than girls. Oftentimes, symptoms of ADHD in girls are dismissed for various gendered and cultural reasons, with many mistaking inattentiveness for ‘daydreaming,’ or interrupting others as ‘chattiness.’ This bias makes it more likely that teachers and parents ignore common signs of ADHD in girls, resulting in them growing up without ever receiving treatment to help them manage ADHD. In this blog post, we will further explore why ADHD is undiagnosed in women, and ten common signs of ADHD in adult women.
Why is ADHD Underdiagnosed Among Women?
ADHD typically presents itself in adolescence and childhood. However, as mentioned above, it is often gender bias that leads to underdiagnosis in girls. Young boys with ADHD typically display hyperactive behavior, and may disrupt classroom settings or have a hard time sitting still. Such behavior is hard for teachers and parents to brush aside – typically resulting in an evaluation and eventual ADHD diagnosis.
On the other hand, ADHD in girls may present as an inability to focus and pay attention. However, gender stereotypes may label this as being flighty or daydreamy, and many will not be evaluated for ADHD.
Ten Signs of ADHD in Women
ADHD can significantly impact one’s life. Knowing the signs can be the first step to receiving a diagnosis. Below are ten common signs of ADHD.
- Forgetting appointments or running behind for meetings
- Losing your temper of having a difficult time regulating your emotions
- Trouble focusing on a conversation unless it deeply interests you.
- Difficulty picking up on social cues or reading body language.
- Having financial issues and struggling to stick to a set budget.
- Taking longer than necessary to make simple decisions such as what to wear, which groceries to buy, etc.
- Disorganized everyday items
- Lower self esteem
- Neglecting physical health and regular checkups/appointments
- Going on lots of tangents when speaking
How New Perspective Counseling Can Help
Undiagnosed and untreated adult ADHD can lead to difficulty at work and at home. The adult with ADHD often has to put a great deal of energy into getting places on time and may still end up late, have difficulty with organization and trouble following proper procedures. Those closest to the person with ADHD are often frustrated with their lack of attention. They often worry endlessly. In fact, many adults with ADD first seek treatment due to anxiety.
Treatment requires a thorough assessment to make a proper diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is made, we work with our clients on the best route to follow. There are many options including medication, supplements, diet and exercise. Education is important in understanding the symptoms of ADHD for both the client but also for those who live with them. Make an appointment with us today if you suspect you may have undiagnosed ADD.
