Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder: Symptoms of ADHD in women

The US Centers for Disease Control and Preventions defines Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. According to the health body, kids with ADHD have 'trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, or being overly active.' What's worrying about this condition is that it can often remain undiagnosed, especially in women.

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The Verywell Mind states that the gap in the diagnosis between men and women occurs because traditionally it was believed that ADHD mostly affects men. In addition, because women tend to showcase less obvious or socially disruptive symptoms than men, the condition remained undiagnosed in them.

As per experts, ADHD manifests itself in three ways. These include: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, or a combination of the two. While men or boys are said to have a more hyperactive/impulsive behaviour, their symptoms are more in association with ADHD. In contrast, women or girls have an inattentive ADHD, which is more subtle in terms of symptoms.

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Inattentive ADHD, also known as ADD, is a subtype of ADHD that leads to problems such as limited attention span, forgetfulness, or procrastination. That said, people with ADHD of the inattentive type have difficulty paying attention to details, are easily distracted, often have trouble organizing or completing tasks, often forget routine activities and chores.

Reports have also suggested that gender bias may play a significant role in the misdiagnosis and underdiagnosis of ADHD in women and girls. Given that certain symptoms of ADD include being shy or impulsive, it may often be misunderstood as a girl's or woman's character/personality traits, making it difficult to diagnose the real cause of the condition.

According to the WebMD, symptoms and signs of ADHD in adult women can include:

- Difficulty with time management

- Disorganization

- Feeling overwhelmed

- History of anxiety and depression

- Difficulty with money management

However, it is not right to assume that women only experience an inattentive type of ADHD. That said, other symptoms of ADHD in women include:

- Excessive talking

- Being excessively fidgety

- Acting impulsively and/or speaking before thinking things through

- Makes friends easily but finds it difficult to sustain it

- Fears rejection

The first step is to recognize the symptoms and to not overlook them because they tend to resemble certain personality traits. Involve a healthcare professional and make sure to diagnose the condition before proceeding towards treatment. Depending on the nature, severity and impact of the condition on the person, treatment approach can be decided on. Do not hesitate to get help or provide help to people with ADHD.