

How ADHD is Different for Women
16 snips Sep 30, 2024
Explore how ADHD manifests differently in women, often causing symptoms to be misinterpreted or overlooked. Discover the role of puberty and societal expectations in shaping these experiences. The discussion highlights significant challenges, from diagnosis to personal relationships, and addresses alarming statistics related to intimate partner violence. Emphasis is placed on the need for tailored treatments and the encouragement for women to seek support while recognizing their own value. It's a vital conversation that sheds light on an often-hidden struggle.
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ADHD in Women: Misunderstood and Misdiagnosed
- ADHD manifests differently in women, often leading to misdiagnosis and societal judgment.
- Women with ADHD face unique challenges that are often misinterpreted as personal failings, like disorganization or emotional dysregulation.
Bias in ADHD Diagnosis
- The initial ADHD diagnostic criteria were based solely on European boys, creating a male-centric bias.
- This bias contributes to the higher diagnosis rate in boys due to their hyperactivity, a key diagnostic feature.
Inattentiveness vs. Hyperactivity
- Hyperactivity is a key diagnostic feature for ADHD, but girls often present with inattentiveness rather than hyperactivity.
- This difference in presentation can lead to girls with ADHD being labeled as "spacey" or "airheads" instead of receiving a proper diagnosis.