Women's Inattentive ADHD: Identifying Characteristics
Understanding Inattentive ADHD in Women: A Hidden Struggle
Inattentive ADHD, a less talked-about form of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), presents differently in women compared to men. Women with this condition often exhibit inattentive symptoms such as daydreaming, forgetfulness, and difficulty organizing thoughts, which are less overt and tend to be internalized, leading to underrecognition and underdiagnosis.
Women's Inattentive ADHD Symptoms
Women with inattentive ADHD often struggle with executive functions, facing problems with organization, following through with responsibilities, and maintaining consistent work and relationships. Hyperactivity in women may manifest as excessive talkativeness rather than physical restlessness, making it less noticeable. Women with ADHD are also more likely to experience comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, rapid mood changes, and low self-esteem, complicating diagnosis.
Diagnostic Differences
Historically, diagnostic criteria for ADHD were based on male presentations emphasizing hyperactivity and impulsivity, leading to a male-centric bias that often misses or misattributes women's inattentive symptoms to personality or mood disorders. Women are more likely to be diagnosed later in life, often after assessment for depression, relationship problems, or other mental health concerns, rather than in childhood.
A diagnostic evaluation involves clinical interviews, self-report questionnaires, and input from family or school/work contacts. However, the less obvious inattentive symptoms in women can lead to underrecognition without thorough assessment.
Masking ADHD Symptoms
Masking ADHD symptoms can be part of the difficulty, as it requires a lot of energy and makes symptoms less apparent to doctors or teachers. Some theories suggest that the reason women and girls are more likely to mask their ADHD symptoms is due to traditional gender roles.
Treatment and Impact
Treatment for inattentive ADHD can include medications, behavioral therapy, ADHD coaching, family and couples' therapy, self-care strategies, and support groups. Women and girls with inattentive ADHD who do not receive a diagnosis may face difficulties in school or work, which could affect their grades or career. Anecdotally, women with inattentive ADHD may also experience "internal hyperactivity," difficulty maintaining relationships long term, and high sensitivity to rejection.
It is crucial to raise awareness about the unique challenges women face in diagnosing and managing inattentive ADHD. This discrepancy underscores the importance of gender-sensitive diagnostic approaches and treatments.
Positive Traits
Despite the challenges, it's important to note that people with ADHD also report experiencing positive traits, such as being passionate, expressive, and creative.
[1] American Psychological Association. (2020). ADHD in Adults. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/adhd-adults [2] National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml [3] Hallowell, E. M., & Ratey, J. J. (2005). Delivered from Distraction: Getting the Most out of Life with ADHD. Penguin Books. [4] Barkley, R. A. (2015). ADHD and the Nature of the Beast: Understanding and Reclaiming Your Life. Guilford Press. [5] Kooij, J., & Buitelaar, J. K. (2010). Gender differences in ADHD: A review. Neuropsychology, Development, and Cognition Section, 22(1), 3-15.
- Psychology studies reveal that women with ADHD often display mental health complications such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, underscoring the need for a comprehensive understanding of ADHD in women's health and wellness.
- The mental health community acknowledges the significance of pediatrics and developmental psychiatry in addressing the complex challenges of diagnosing and treating inattentive ADHD in women, particularly in light of the historical emphasis on hyperactivity and impulsivity in diagnostic criteria.
- Science is unlocking the intricacies of women's mental health, revealing that women with ADHD may face distinct challenges, including hiding symptoms due to societal or gender-based expectations, which can have profound effects on their health-and-wellness and mental-health.
- Research in women's health further highlights the importance of gender-sensitive approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of inattentive ADHD, ensuring that adult women and girls receive the support they need for a balanced and fulfilling life.
- The science of ADHD is evolving to better understand the diverse positive traits associated with ADHD, including passion, expressiveness, and creativity, which women and girls with ADHD can utilize in their personal and professional lives for personal growth and success.
