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ADHD in Girls: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment with an ADHD Psychiatrist

Updated: May 26, 2023

ADHD is a neurological condition that affects many children and adults worldwide. ADHD is often associated with boys, but it also affects girls. Girls with ADHD may exhibit different symptoms than boys, which often go undiagnosed, leading to problems later in life. An ADHD Psychiatrist is a professional trained in diagnosing and treating ADHD in children and adults. Let's take a closer look at ADHD in girls, its signs and symptoms, and how an ADHD Psychiatrist can help.


ADHD in Girls Signs & Treatment with an ADHD Psychiatrist
ADHD in Girls Signs & Treatment with an ADHD Psychiatrist

Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Girls

Girls with ADHD often show different symptoms than boys with ADHD. Some of the signs and symptoms of ADHD in girls include:


  • Daydreaming and difficulty staying focused

  • Poor organization and time management

  • Inattention and distractibility

  • Impulsivity

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Difficulty making and keeping friends

  • Forgetfulness and losing things


Girls with ADHD may also be more likely to have internalizing symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, rather than externalizing symptoms, such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. These symptoms may be subtle and often go unnoticed, leading to a delay in diagnosis and treatment.


Treatment Options with an ADHD Psychiatrist

ADHD Psychiatrists are specially trained in diagnosing and treating ADHD in girls and boys. Treatment options for ADHD may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. An ADHD Psychiatrist may prescribe medication to help manage the symptoms of ADHD. Therapy may also be recommended to help with emotional regulation and social skills. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise, healthy eating habits, and good sleep hygiene, can also help manage ADHD symptoms.


Benefits of Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback is a type of therapy that is becoming increasingly popular as a treatment option for ADHD. Neurofeedback therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses sensors to measure brainwave activity. The therapy is based on the principle that the brain can learn to regulate itself, leading to improvements in attention, focus, and other ADHD symptoms. The benefits of neurofeedback therapy include:

  • Non-invasive and safe

  • No medication required

  • Personalized treatment

  • Long-lasting effects

Challenges of ADHD in Girls at School

Girls with ADHD may face unique challenges at school due to their symptoms. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. While ADHD affects both boys and girls, the symptoms may be more subtle in girls and often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leading to significant challenges in the academic setting.


Poor Time Management and Organization Skills: Girls with ADHD may struggle with time management and organization skills, making it difficult for them to complete homework and assignments on time. This may lead to lower grades and a sense of frustration and anxiety.


Difficulty Paying Attention: Girls with ADHD may have trouble paying attention in class, leading to missed instructions and important details. This may cause them to fall behind their peers and feel overwhelmed.


Forgetfulness: Girls with ADHD may have difficulty remembering important information and details, such as test dates and project deadlines. This may cause them to miss deadlines and affect their academic performance.


Impulsivity: Girls with ADHD may struggle with impulsivity, leading to disruptive behaviors in class and difficulty following rules and instructions.


Social Challenges: Girls with ADHD may have difficulty making and keeping friends due to their symptoms, such as interrupting and being impulsive. This may lead to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem.


Conclusion

With early diagnosis, treatment, and support from parents, educators, and healthcare professionals, girls with ADHD can succeed academically and in life. If you suspect your child may have ADHD, seeking help from an ADHD Psychiatrist can provide effective treatment options, including medication and therapy. Faith Behavioral Health is a great resource for those seeking mental health services, including ADHD diagnosis and treatment, to help individuals achieve their best possible outcome. With the right support, girls with ADHD can thrive and reach their full potential.


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