Women with ADHD fly under radar
JOBURG – Psychologist Dr Rykie Liebenberg describes the symptoms most often seen in women with ADHD.
Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a major problem in today’s society, though it may be more of a problem than many realise. According to experts, the disorder is more common in women, but less frequently diagnosed in men. “Women with ADHD generally present with inattentiveness which is why their condition flies under the radar for so long,” said psychiatrist Dr Rykie Liebenberg.
“Their symptoms are more internalised and less noticeable, which means they suffer quietly, confused about why their lives are so disorganised and out of control.”
Liebenberg described the symptoms commonly seen in women as daydreaming, lapses in concentration and procrastination. Some other symptoms that have been linked to the disorder in women are fatigue, anxiety, sleeplessness and binge-eating.
“Most women diagnosed with ADHD, in my experience, are the mothers of children with ADHD,” said Liebenberg.
“Being disorganised has far more ramifications when you’re trying to work a full-time job, fetch children, pack lunches and run a household.”
Most often women are only diagnosed once they reach adulthood, and psychologists are calling on communities to look for early signs of the disorder in girls and young women. “Friends, colleagues and mothers should keep an eye out for the key signs of ADHD in women – anxiety, restlessness, fatigue and a general lack of concentration,” advised Liebenberg.
“With the right support from friends and family, coupled with effective medication, they can manage their ADHD and flourish.”
For more information about the disorder in women visit www.myadhd.co.za
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