ADHD in Women: The Signs You Need to Know 

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.