How is ADHD different in women and men?
Women are prone to be left undiagnosed
Adult ADHD in women often presents differently than in men, which can lead to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis. Here are some key aspects of ADHD in adult women:
Symptoms in Women
Women with ADHD often experience more inattentive symptoms such as daydreaming rather than the hyperactive-impulsive symptoms typically associated with ADHD in men and boys.
Impact on Daily Life
Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD can significantly affect various aspects of a woman’s life, such as:
- Work performance and career progression
- Relationships and social interactions
- Self-esteem and mental health
- Home management and organization
Diagnosis Challenges
ADHD is frequently underdiagnosed in women for several reasons:
- Symptoms may be less obvious compared to men
- Women often develop coping mechanisms that “mask” their symptoms
- Cultural expectations and gender biases may encourage them to hide their symptoms
- Comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression may overshadow ADHD symptoms
Hormonal Influences
Hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman’s life can impact ADHD symptoms:
- Hormonal changes for menstrual cycle changes may affect symptom severity
- Pregnancy and postpartum periods can influence symptoms
- Menopause may exacerbate ADHD symptoms
Symptoms in Men
ADHD in men often presents with distinct characteristics and challenges. Men with ADHD often exhibit more hyperactive-impulsive symptoms compared to women. Here’s an overview of how ADHD typically manifests in adult males:
Impact on Daily Life
ADHD can significantly affect various aspects of a man’s life. For example:
- Forgetting important dates or commitments
- Impulsive decision-making
- Difficulty with emotional regulation, leading to conflicts
- Difficulty managing finances and paying bills on time
- Challenges with self-care and maintaining healthy habits
- Tendency towards risky behaviors or addictive patterns
Diagnosis Challenges
Men are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than women, often due to:
- More noticeable external symptoms, particularly hyperactivity
- Greater likelihood of displaying disruptive behaviors in childhood
- Tendency to exhibit combined-type or predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD
Understanding these aspects of ADHD in men and women is crucial for proper diagnosis, treatment, and support. With appropriate management, people with ADHD can effectively navigate their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.
If you suspect you might have ADHD, how about taking a free online test? Or if you want to get a proper diagnosis, you can book a test here.