ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions and this could delay the diagnosis.
It is essential to investigate and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to diagnose in adulthood, especially for women. signs and symptoms of adhd in women of the symptoms are different for women. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, many women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often observed in men and boys So doctors may not be aware of the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, as females are not referred to doctors as quickly. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than males and are less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may use coping techniques, such as hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their feelings and behaviors.
Symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. They might be unable to keep track of their activities and adhere to routines. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they need. This is particularly relevant for those who are who are on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to get an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and request a referral. You should also explain why you believe you have ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. Alternately, you can try to get an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to diagnose, in part because their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood aren't always evident. These strategies can be harmful since they can try to conceal their problems. A few of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to gain social support by participating in risky activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in more sexually transmitted illnesses and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then refer you to a service that is most suitable for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be long, and in some cases it is difficult to get referred because the problem isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's issues are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is willing to collaborate with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other side, a diet that is high in junk food and sugar can increase these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods, such as meditation, might be helpful for you. They can be very helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than males. This is probably due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this is not to say that they don't have any signs. They could have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect, such as inattention ADHD. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in difficult relationships, especially with males.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to have difficulties with work and school. They may have trouble following directions or deadlines, as well as keeping on top of commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and their career.
Women with adult ADHD often have trouble paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They might also be prone to depression and self-doubt. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are often not understood by others. For instance, mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are a lot of resources available to adults with ADHD. One of the best is an online support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available both online as well as in person. These groups are an excellent way to get advice about diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their struggles, successes and hopes. The information on the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. You can also contact them with any questions you may have in the event that you'd like to join an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD can face unique difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings and anger.
Exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and decreasing stress. In addition, it helps reduce excess energy and improve concentration and focus. Try to include an exercise routine that you regularly do in your day.
Exercise at home or, if you want to socialize join a club or gym. Just remember, that while exercise can reduce certain symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to solve them all by itself - it should be paired with other strategies to manage symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.