How Does Untreated ADHD Affect Women as They Grow Up?
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurological condition that affects both children and adults. However, it can manifest differently depending on what sex you are. Research indicates that approximately 4.4% of adults in the United States have ADHD. However, this issue might be underreported in women because societal expectations and norms often hide the symptoms. Women tend to receive diagnoses later in life or not at all, which creates unique challenges as they age.
For lots of women, untreated ADHD can lead to difficulties with time management, staying organized, and focusing, whether at home or work. Stats reveal that women with ADHD who aren't treated are more prone to anxiety and depression. Half of the women who have ADHD are more likely to have anxiety disorders too. This makes things even more challenging and can lead to feelings of being alone and frustrated. But how can untreated ADHD specifically affect women as they grow up?
What are the Symptoms of ADHD in Women?
Common symptoms of ADHD in women often include inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. However, these symptoms can manifest quite differently compared to men, leading to frequent underdiagnosis. For instance, women may be more inclined to internalize their struggles. They may exhibit inattentiveness rather than the more overt hyperactivity typically seen in men. For example, it may appear as if a woman is daydreaming, uninterested, or forgetful rather than fidgety and disruptive. This can lead to difficulties getting things done, staying organized, and managing time. Since this is a more subtle presentation of symptoms, it can often go unnoticed and untreated.
Additionally, societal expectations and stereotypes about women's behavior can also make diagnosis more difficult. From a young age, women are expected to present themselves in a certain way. Which often leads to the use of masking or coping strategies to shield their symptoms from view. For instance, being constantly busy, perfectionism, and people-pleasing are common coping mechanisms for women with ADHD. Unfortunately, this can result in misdiagnosis or late diagnosis, leaving many women feeling isolated and misunderstood. The stigma surrounding mental health issues and a lack of awareness can also prevent women from seeking the help they need.
The Impact of Untreated ADHD on Women’s Lives
When ADHD is left untreated, no matter the sex, it can lead to significant challenges in their social, emotional, and professional lives. However, the impact on women's lives can be particularly severe due to societal expectations and gender roles. In their personal lives, untreated ADHD can lead to difficulties in maintaining relationships. Women with ADHD may struggle with communicating effectively, managing household responsibilities, and remembering important details. This can look like forgetting to do their designated household tasks or telling their partner they did something when they didn't. Over time, this can create tension and strain in the relationship.
In terms of emotional well-being, untreated ADHD can lead to a range of mental health concerns. Many women experience an increased risk of anxiety and depression. With ADHD, the brain is constantly in overdrive, making it difficult to slow down and relax. Its coping mechanism is the anxiety that results from the constant racing thoughts and inability to focus. Similarly, depression may arise from feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and misunderstood due to untreated ADHD. There is also a self-esteem component. As women notice other people seemingly have it easier, they start to feel bad about themselves. They are constantly comparing their processes to, often neurotypical, others.
Untreated ADHD Can Also Create Challenges For Women, Professionally, as They Grow Up.
ADHD doesn't often weigh work priorities. That means that individuals with untreated ADHD are more likely to jump from project to project without completing the tasks they started. For instance, their brain is telling them that while what they are doing is important, this other task is even more so. This can affect work quality and productivity, leading to missed deadlines and difficulty advancing in their careers. Additionally, women with ADHD may struggle with time management and organization skills, making it stressful to navigate workplace responsibilities effectively.
Socially, women with ADHD might find it hard to follow what others are saying or recall details of a conversation. To others, this might appear as if they are not listening or don't care. But the reality is that their brains are processing the information at a slower rate. It's like their brain is trying to create subtitles for what's happening in real-time. However, this can lead to frustration from both parties and can affect personal relationships as well as professional ones.
ADHD and Life Transitions
Life transitions are typically hard for most people. However, being neurodiverse in San Antonio means women can struggle more due to the challenges that come with managing their symptoms. As women transition from childhood to adolescence then to adulthood, there are specific challenges that can arise. In childhood, the struggles with hyperactivity may be more apparent and addressed through medication or therapy. However, as they enter adolescence and young adulthood, inattentiveness becomes more prevalent. Leading to difficulties in academic settings and work environments. Navigating traditional milestones such as higher education, career advancements, marriage, or parenthood can also present significant challenges for women with untreated ADHD.
For instance, starting college or a new job can be overwhelming and challenging to navigate without proper treatment and support. Balancing classes, studying, and managing a job can be incredibly overwhelming for someone with untreated ADHD. Similarly, getting married, having children, or going through menopause can also exacerbate ADHD symptoms. Making everyday tasks even more difficult. Women may feel overwhelmed by the added responsibilities of these life changes and experience feelings of guilt or shame for not being able to meet societal expectations.
Motherhood and Family Life with ADHD
Motherhood can be a beautiful and fulfilling experience, but it also comes with its challenges. For women with untreated ADHD, the responsibilities of raising children can be even more overwhelming. Taking care of children requires constant attention, organization skills, and time management. These are all areas women with ADHD might struggle with. This can result in feelings of guilt and inadequacy for not being able to fulfill societal expectations of being the perfect mother. Anxiety can stem from constantly feeling like they are behind or forgetting something important. It can also be challenging for women with untreated ADHD to balance their responsibilities as a mother and partner, leading to strain in their relationships.
In addition to the challenges of motherhood, untreated ADHD can also have an impact on family life. Women may struggle to keep up with their designated roles in the family. For example, remembering important dates, managing household tasks, and keeping track of family schedules. This can lead to misunderstandings and tension within the family. Additionally, if one or more children also have ADHD, it can be challenging for a mother with untreated ADHD to provide proper support and guidance. This can lead to conflicts within the family dynamic and create a sense of chaos and disorganization in the household. Children may feel neglected or frustrated when their parent is unable to pay attention or follow through on promises due to their ADHD symptoms.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Receiving an early diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing, especially for women who might otherwise face self-doubt and confusion from not understanding their struggles. An early diagnosis validates their experiences and shows that their challenges aren't due to a lack of effort. This recognition leads to proper treatment and support, significantly enhancing their quality of life. With proper treatment, women with ADHD can learn coping mechanisms and strategies to manage their symptoms effectively.
ADHD therapy in San Antonio, TX, can be an essential part of managing symptoms. Often, when people think of managing ADHD, they consider medication first, but therapy is equally vital. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help women build coping strategies, improve organizational skills, and manage anxiety associated with untreated ADHD. Lifestyle changes like setting routines, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining a balanced diet also help manage symptoms. Therapy for Women in San Antonio, TX can also be a great resource as it address more than a woman's ADHD but the struggles around in and can provide a supportive environment for women to process and manage their symptoms. These combined approaches empower women to leverage their unique strengths and confidently handle the challenges of ADHD.
Dealing with untreated ADHD can be difficult. Especially for women who also have to navigate societal expectations and life transitions. However, with proper treatment and support, women with ADHD can thrive in all aspects of their lives. Seeking ADHD therapy in San Antonio, TX, and receiving an early diagnosis can make all the difference in managing symptoms and living a fulfilling life. Remember that you are not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength. With the right tools and support, women with ADHD can confidently navigate any challenges that come their way.
Find Support with ADHD Therapy in San Antonio, TX
If you or a loved one is struggling with untreated ADHD, know that there are resources available to help. ADHD therapy in San Antonio, TX, or Therapy for Women in San Antonio, TX, can provide a safe and supportive environment for women to address their challenges and learn effective strategies to manage them. At Monarch Behavioral Health, our therapists have extensive experience in treating ADHD and supporting women through their unique struggles. We offer therapy in-person and also online so that we can meet your needs. Our team of experienced therapists is dedicated to helping you thrive in all areas of your life. If you are seeking understanding and support, you can follow these steps:
Contact our therapy office and learn more about our services
Click here for more about our team
Address Your Challenges and Thrive with ADHD Therapy in San Antonio, TX
Other Therapy Services Offered at Monarch Behavioral Health
Our therapists at Monarch Behavioral Health in San Antonio, TX understand that every individual has unique needs and experiences. That's why we offer a wide range of therapy services besides ADHD therapy and therapy for women. Our other services include: Anxiety Treatment, Depression Treatment, Trauma Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Therapy, and more. We are happy to also offer EMDR therapy, LGBTQ counseling, eating disorder treatment, adult counseling, and counseling for teens. Let us help you on your journey towards healing and personal growth. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you. With the right treatment and support, you can confidently manage your ADHD symptoms and live a fulfilling life. Don't hesitate to reach out for help and take the first step towards wellness today!