ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often not being diagnosed with ADHD because the symptoms are less evident in females. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions, which could delay the diagnosis.
It is essential to investigate and manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms are different in females. For instance, while males tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. adhd symptoms in adult women could be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis, since females are not referred to doctors as frequently. Girls can also hide symptoms better than boys. This makes them less likely get noticed by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping methods, such as wearing make-up or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviors.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is because they experience hormonal fluctuations that make them more prone to mood swings. It can also be difficult to keep track of routines and manage their tasks. This can impact how they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and anger for those who are unable to get the help they need. This is particularly the case for those on the NHS, as there is a small number of doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step in getting the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD because they'll need to be attentive and request a referral. You should also explain the reasons why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and aid in speeding up the process. Alternatively, you can try to get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, especially as they age, may not be as obvious. They may develop strategies to cover up their problems which could be detrimental to their health. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build support for their friends by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activity are all examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to experience a higher rate of sexually transmitted illnesses and teens who are unplanned and have early-stage pregnancy.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. Then they will refer you to the appropriate service for you. This typically a community mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are lengthy and, in some instances, it is difficult to refer someone because of the lack of seriousness with how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes the person's issues are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and diet changes can make a difference too. A diet high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other side, a diet that is high in sugar and junk food can worsen the symptoms.
You should also ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be beneficial for you. They can be very beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified teacher. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD tend to have less visible symptoms than those with ADHD. This could be because females don't have as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This can make it harder to diagnose them. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any signs. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognise. Additionally, they may struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions in completing deadlines and keeping track of their commitments. They might be unable to accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can lead them to burnout which can have a negative impact on their career and job performance.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and are not organized. They could also be susceptible to depression and self-doubt. They may also struggle with their emotions and are frequently not understood by others. For example, mood changes can be misinterpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. These groups are a great place to receive advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, and also how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe place for adults suffering from ADHD to discuss their struggles, successes and aspirations. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page and website. You can also reach them with questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes may cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings, and anger.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help to manage excess energy, and increase focus and concentration. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social atmosphere take part in a group class or gym. Remember that although exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD however, it will not solve them all by itself - it must be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. The ideal goal is to do 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week.