Women with ADHD are a mystery. Why? They’re quiet. Suffering from within. What can we do for them?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder. While it is growing for males (12.9%), only 4.9% of women are diagnosed. This is because females develop better coping skills.
- Lack of concentration
- Trouble making friends
- Distractibility
- Anxiety/depression
- Daydreaming
Traveling back on the WayBack Machine…
I call this story “Keep it hidden.”
Oh! An adult professional. She left the “needs and concerns” section blank. Fortunately I know what’s up. A disability.
Conversations are mandatory. “Hi. I’m Edie Brown, an academic therapist. Tell me about yourself.”
- I have problems remembering things.
- I try to avoid potential work overloads.
- I sabotage myself all the time.
- I can’t figure out how to use technology at work and in my personal life.
- It’s hard for me to learn new things.
- I don’t have friends and I hate being around my co-workers.
Yup. ADHD.
Moral? Seek support that is specially trained.
Symptoms change with age. Eating disorders are common. Stress draws about substance abuse. Low self-esteem manifests as attributing success to luck or chance.
Research at the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH) shows that 80% of girls medicated in their teens continue through adulthood. Stimulant medications and therapy are commonly used for problems associated with ADHD. Alternative treatments are increasing in use.
- Elimination diets
- Supplements
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Memory training
- Neurofeedback
Women with ADHD benefit from professional support. They are most effective when there is a personal buy-in. Be consistent by providing clarity.
- Collaborate on limits.
- Develop a firm schedule.
- Set up a reminder system.
- Get plenty of sleep (sleeping routine).
- Work with spouses.
Being a woman with ADHD is a challenge that only few understand. Sometimes they need to take a time out when you’re ready to blow. Give yourself permission to take a break. Heading toward the bathroom is inconspicuous. Try it.
Question: Would you tell your employer that you have ADHD to receive accommodations? Leave a comment below.