Child-Development-Guide.com is undergoing a major new transition.
Please bear with us while we try our best to give you an easy navigation through
the site.
The Importance of Identifying ADD ADHD Girls
The Importance of Identifying ADD ADHD Girls by Mary Asomah...
When many people think of ADHD they envision hyperactive little boys. In fact, most of the studies done on ADHD have
been done on boys.
And although there are a higher percentage of boys with ADHD than girls, a significant number of children who suffer
from ADHD are girls. And ADHD ADD girls can be affected by their condition in different ways than boys.
Identifying ADHD ADD Girls
ADHD ADD girls can go undiagnosed for longer periods than boys, because ADHD ADD girls tend to be less disruptive.
ADHD ADD girls are more likely to suffer predominantly from inattentive ADHD. This can lead to difficulty in completing school
work, but often does not lead to disruptive behaviour.
ADHD ADD girls tend to be less rebellious and less defiant than ADHD boys. It is worth noting that treatment for ADHD
ADD girls can be different than treatment for ADHD boys.
ADHD ADD girls are shown to respond well to medical treatment. When treated for ADHD, ADHD ADD girls report that their
quality of life had been greatly improved.
ADHD ADD Girls Suffer More Depression
Studies, such as the one performed by Drs. Joseph Beiderman and Craig B.H. Surman from Massachusetts General Hospital
found that ADHD ADD girls are more likely to suffer major depression than non-ADHD ADD girls.
Studies show that ADHD ADD girls are more at risk of having high rates of major depression, as well as suffering from
anxiety disorders and disruptive behaviour disorders.
ADHD ADD girls are also more likely to have an earlier onset of major depression. ADHD ADD girls also have a higher rate
of suicide than non-ADHD ADD girls.
ADHD ADD Girls More Likely to Have an Eating Disorder
ADHD ADD girls are more than three times as likely to develop either anorexia or bulimia nervosa as non-ADHD ADD girls.
Treating ADHD ADD Girls May Prevent Depression
Correctly identifying ADHD ADD in girls can allow a child to not only receive treatment for their ADHD ADD symptoms,
but can also safeguard against future depression or eating disorders.
Parents who are made aware of their daughter's risk of suffering from depression and eating disorders can watch for any
signs that could indicate that their daughters are in potential danger of developing these life threatening illnesses.
Providing Therapy For ADHD ADD Girls
ADHD girls need to be properly treated and should be assessed closely by doctors who understand the specific risks
associated with ADHD girls.
ADHD ADD girls who exhibit any signs of depression or eating disorders should receive professional therapy.
