ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go not being diagnosed with ADHD since symptoms are more evident in females. They can also be misdiagnosed as other conditions, which can delay the referral.
It is essential to investigate and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of adolescence and pregnancy can also unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms are different in females. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically struggle to concentrate or sit still. They may be misdiagnosed as having mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often seen in boys and men So doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't often referred to as swiftly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than men and are less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might use strategies for coping, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out to hide their behavior and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopause or perimenopause. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can make them more susceptible to mood swings. signs of adhd in women could also be challenging to follow routines and manage their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait for assessments is causing stress and frustration for those who aren't able to access the assistance they require. This is particularly applicable to those who are on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who are able to conduct ADHD tests. It can take years to make 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 consider this a serious matter and will request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons behind why you think you may have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to help speed up the process. You can also try to get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood might not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful, as they may attempt to hide their issues. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build support for their friends by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to have more sexually transmitted illnesses and teens who are unplanned and have early-stage pregnancy.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is most suitable for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for the services may be long In some instances, it can be difficult to be diagnosed because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or they believe that the person's problems are due to something else (like depression, anxiety or abuse of drugs) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended to a therapist, you must select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the condition, and is willing to tackle your ADHD issues. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people with ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process. Treatment can ease some of your symptoms, and diet changes can also make a difference. A diet high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in junk food and sugar can worsen the symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP if mindfulness-based techniques, such as meditation, might be helpful for you. They can be extremely beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods by a trained instructor. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD tend to find their symptoms less obvious than males. This could be because females don't exhibit as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. signs of adhd in women can make it harder for them to be diagnosed. However, this isn't to say that they don't have any symptoms. In fact, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognise. Additionally, they may struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to ruptures or broken relationships particularly with men.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at work and school. They may have trouble adhering to instructions in completing deadlines and keeping the track of commitments. They might also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and career.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They can also have difficulty expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For instance, mood swings could be interpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these difficulties, there are a lot of resources available to adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is an online support group specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are offered both online and in person. These groups are a great way to receive advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, and also how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. For instance, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to discuss their struggles, successes and hopes. The information about the meeting are available on their Facebook page and website. You can contact them if you have any questions or want to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD can face particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings, and anger.
Exercise can ease the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help control excess energy, increase focus and concentration. Try to include regular exercise into your day.
Exercise at home or, if your goal is to be social take part in a group or join a gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms but it can't eliminate the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies to treat symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.