ADHD which is commonly associated with difficulties in focus, emotion regulation, impulse control, and hyperactivity, although mostly talked about in childhood can look different in adulthood. Women with ADHD/ADD specifically can often experience unique challenges. One factor that can significantly affect ADHD symptoms in women is hormonal fluctuations.
Hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can have a profound impact on the brain and its functioning. For women with ADHD, changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to noticeable shifts in symptom severity. This drastic change can also impact medication efficiency, as some women might find that their ADHD medication stop working, or not working as well around their pre-menstrual phase. This also makes me curious about the relationship between ADHD and PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) in women, something that I believe requires more research, and learning about.
As noted by Dr. Barkley (one of the world renowned ADHD experts): recent studies are suggesting that at the beginning of the month as estrogen starts to decrease, and progesterone stays the same we can expect to see an increase in hyperactive impulsive behaviour, risk taking, increase in executive function deficits and changes in emotion regulation due to withdrawal of estrogen. Thus, girls and women (with ADHD) at mid cycle are more prone to impulsive, hyperactive, executive deficit, and difficulty regulating emotions; which can lead to increased risk in risk taking behaviour. As estrogen declines and progesterone levels changes it can increase inattention, irritability and dysthymia or depressive symptoms late in the cycle right before the pre-menstrual phase of the cycle. Thus, women with ADHD might start noticing a change or worsening in their symptoms about two weeks prior to their period, and the type of symptoms they experience could differ based on where they are in their cycle and their estrogen and progesterone levels.
Getting regular exercise, having a balanced nutrition, one that can support hormonal balance and health, along with becoming more aware of one’s own state of emotional and physical wellbeing and using personalized skills to support with mood and regulation can all help better manage such symptoms.
You don’t have to do it alone. Contact us to connect with one of our skilled therapists or nutritionist for personalized care and support, one that suits you and your lifestyle.
