3 Telltale Signs of Adult ADHD in Women

Although ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) isn’t a gender-based disorder, boys and men receive this diagnosis four times more often than women. Part of the reason for this disparity is that ADHD in women may present differently than it does in men.  

In addition, gender biases based on cultural ideas about women and how they behave have contributed to decades of underdiagnosing or misdiagnosing ADHD in women. This is changing, but today ADHD is still underdiagnosed most often in women compared to children and other genders.

Unfortunately, untreated ADHD can negatively affect your quality of life in significant ways. Research has revealed that women with ADHD suffer from low self-esteem, psychological and emotional distress, and problems at work. And since many women are the primary caregiver, this can affect the entire family. 

The good news is that with the right treatment, women with ADHD can overcome these challenges and find balance in their lives. Finding the right treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis and assessment of any co-occurring conditions.  

At Tu Clinica Arlington, our team is able to provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment options for women with ADHD.

Since this behavioral disorder can look different in women than in men and children, keep reading to learn three telltale signs that point to ADHD in women.      

1. You feel overwhelmed 

Does life sometimes feel like it’s “too much?” Do you feel like other women with the same responsibilities seem to handle them better and you’re always behind? 

If you’re constantly riding the edge of deadlines, not remembering when important tasks are due, or forgetting From feeling overwhelmed at social events to feeling behind at work to not getting household chores done, ADHD can lead you to feel overwhelmed by life.   

Sadly, women with ADHD are far more likely than men to develop psycho-emotional challenges, like anxiety and depression. The good news is that when your ADHD is managed, it can be easier to address any additional psychiatric disorders. 

2. You struggle with organization   

If your house or workspace is always a mess, you can never find things when you need them, you have trouble remembering appointments or when you have to return a call or email, and are constantly riding the edge of (or missing) deadlines, ADHD could be the cause.  

Women with ADHD may spend significant time and money trying to get organized. But they have a difficult time following through or sticking with them. 

This can lead to misplacing your things all the time, missing deadlines (or staying up all night to meet them), and frequently being late. It can even create a messy household so that you’re too embarrassed to have people over.

3. You feel challenged maintaining healthy relationships

ADHD affects emotional regulation, making it more difficult for women with the disorder to manage their emotions. As a result, you may find managing relationships especially challenging. 

For example, you might want to do better at remembering birthdays or keeping your cool with your kids, but find it difficult to manage these things. You might unintentionally say things because you blurt them out, forget to do the things you promised to do, or have trouble focusing during conversations. 

As a result, your relationships can suffer. By seeking help for your ADHD, you can get the support you need to have happier relationships and more meaningful connections with others.  

Recognize these symptoms of ADHD in women in yourself? Get the help you need by scheduling an appointment at Tu Clinica Arlington today!