Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects people of all ages and genders. In past years, ADHD was most commonly associated with boys and men; in recent years, it has become more widely recognised and diagnosed in girls and women.
ADHD in women may present differently than in men, and, in the past, has lead to underdiagnosis and undertreatment. In this blog post, I will explore the unique challenges that women with ADHD face and how their symptoms may differ from those of men.
ADHD is a disorder of self-regulation, which means that it can affect a person’s ability to control their thoughts, emotions, and behaviour. Symptoms of ADHD include inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. However, women with ADHD may be more likely to experience symptoms of inattention rather than hyperactivity. This can make it harder to diagnose ADHD in women, as they may not fit the stereotypical image of a hyperactive child or adult. It is now coming to light, that many women, who have since been diagnosed with ADHD, may have struggled through their school years, not feeling that they “fit into” the education system, and then experienced further struggles with jobs and relationships.
Women with ADHD may struggle with executive functioning skills, which are responsible for planning, organizing, and prioritizing tasks. This can make it difficult to manage multiple responsibilities, such as work, family, and social life. Women with ADHD may feel overwhelmed by these demands and may struggle to meet expectations. They may also have difficulty with time management, leading to chronic lateness or missed appointments.
Another common challenge for women with ADHD is emotional dysregulation. Women with ADHD may be more likely to experience intense emotions, such as anxiety, depression, and anger. They may also have difficulty regulating their emotions, leading to outbursts or mood swings. This can be particularly challenging in social situations, as women with ADHD may struggle to control their emotions in response to social cues.
In addition to these challenges, women with ADHD may also face misunderstanding of their disorder. They may be labelled as being careless, disorganised and forgetful. This can lead to feelings of shame, self-doubt and have a huge impact on self-esteem.
So, how can women with ADHD get the help they need? The first step is to recognize that ADHD is a real and valid disorder that can be effectively treated. Women with ADHD may choose to take medication or possibly benefit from cognitive-behavioural therapy, which can help them develop strategies for managing their symptoms and improving their executive functioning skills. Diagnosis and possible medication would require the involvement of a psychiatrist.
From my perspective as a Nutritional Therapist, I am aware of the growing evidence that nutritional psychiatry can play an important role in supporting those with ADHD. Nutritional psychiatry is an emerging field that explores the relationship between diet and mental health.
Research suggests that people with ADHD may have lower levels of certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and iron, which are important for brain function. Studies have also shown that dietary interventions, such as eliminating food additives and increasing omega-3 intake, can improve ADHD symptoms in both children and adults.
It is important to note that nutritional interventions should not be used as a replacement for medication or therapy, but rather as a complementary approach. However, for those who prefer to focus on a nutritional approach, it is important to seek support from a suitably qualified practitioner such as a BANT registered Nutritionist and ideally one who has experience with neurodiversity. For personal reasons, nutritional support for ADHD is of particular interest to me. I have completed additional training in supporting those with ADHD and closely follow current research in this area.
Another effective area of support, particularly for teens and adults, is ADHD Coaching. ADHD coaches are trained professionals who specialise in helping those with ADHD to manage their symptoms better and improve overall functioning in work and personal life. Studies have shown that ADHD coaching can lead to significant improvements in executive functioning, organisational skills and self-esteem.
From my perspective as a Nutritionist, I have a great awareness of the benefits of identifying and addressing nutrient deficiencies to benefit those with ADHD. When receiving a diagnosis of ADHD, people are often not aware of how nutritional support can be another option available to them, which can work alone or complementary to medications and coaching.
If you or a family member are struggling with ADHD and are interested in finding out more about how a nutritional approach can help, please get in touch using the contact form.