The Reality of ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition, yet for too long, the narrative has revolved entirely around its presentation in boys. But what about girls and women with ADHD?
We’re not slipping under the radar because our symptoms are hidden or subtle. It’s because we've been viewed through a male-centric lens. I’ve personally experienced the ‘male perspective’ throughout my own diagnosis. My disability was expected to mirror the experience and presentation of ADHD that is seen in males. However, this was and is totally not the case!
So let’s debunk some myths and shed some light on the reality of ADHD in females.
A Key Indicator
Emotional dysregulation is a key hallmark of ADHD, but it manifests differently in girls and women. We often internalise our struggles, masking our symptoms to fit in. However, this comes at a cost — we experience more social difficulties and are more likely to experience bullying. All of this naturally puts a toll on our self-esteem.
Hormonal Influences
Women’s hormonal fluctuations throughout our menstrual cycles can actually intensify ADHD symptoms, yet they’re frequently overlooked during diagnoses and treatment plans. Imagine the impact of overlooking something as significant as hormonal influence on a condition!
Misdiagnosis
Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD in girls and women can lead them down a path of seeking help for issues like depression, anxiety, or eating disorders. It’s a vicious cycle where the true cause — ADHD — gets overshadowed by other conditions.
Better Support
So, what can be done to ensure girls and women with ADHD receive the support they deserve?
There needs to be recognition of the fact that female ADHD isn’t just a watered-down version of the male experience. It’s crucial to both approach it with a fresh perspective, and acknowledge its unique challenges.
We all need to educate ourselves on how ADHD may manifest in females, beyond the stereotypes. This will help us all to be more attuned to signs of emotional distress.
There needs to be a greater understanding about the fact that ADHD can coexist with other conditions and doctors need to tailor individual treatments accordingly. Hormonal fluctuations should also be taken into account.
Perhaps most importantly we need a holistic approach to managing our ADHD. A combination of coping strategies, life skills training and even medication can help us to achieve our full potential. But we also need understanding and compassion from our friends and employers.
By challenging outdated perspectives and embracing a more inclusive approach, we can ensure that no one, regardless of gender, is left struggling to manage their ADHD alone. It's about time to give girls and women with ADHD the recognition and support they deserve.
If you are neurodiverse and are looking for a new job opportunity in the property industry please give me a call. I can help you find the right role for you.
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