ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go not being diagnosed with ADHD as symptoms are less evident in females. They may also be mistaken for other disorders and this could delay the referral.
It is crucial to understand and address the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence may cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly in women. This is because a lot symptoms are different in females. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. They could be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety.
ADHD is more frequently observed in men and boys, so doctors might not be aware of the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis since women aren't referred as frequently. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than boys. This makes them less likely get noticed by their teachers or parents. They may resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out to hide their behavior and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. It is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It may also be difficult to keep track of routines and keep track of their tasks. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait times for assessments are creating stress and frustration for people who haven't been in a position to get the help they need. This is particularly relevant for those who are on the NHS since there are only a few doctors who can conduct ADHD tests. It can take a long time to make an appointment.
The first step in getting the diagnosis is to visit 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. It is also important to explain why you believe you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can aid in speeding up the process. You may also obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to recognize than men, partly because the signs aren't as evident, especially in adulthood. They might develop strategies to hide their problems and they can be extremely damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends through high risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. 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.
The wait times for the services may be long, and in some cases it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the person's difficulties are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms, and diet changes can make a difference too. For example, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and junk food can increase these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices, such as meditation, could be beneficial for you. add in adult women can be very useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD typically have less visible symptoms than males. This is likely due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity 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. In fact, they could be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in difficult relationships, especially with males.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at work and school. They may have difficulty following instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping the track of commitments. They may be unable to accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout, which can have a negative effect on their performance at work and their professional career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble staying focused, forgetting easily and are not organized. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. They can also have difficulty communicating their feelings, and are often misinterpreted. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are a lot of resources available to adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are accessible online as well as in person. They are an excellent way to receive guidance on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. For instance, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and achievements. You can find the details of the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. You can also contact them with any questions if you'd like to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings and irritation.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help to manage excess energy, and increase focus and concentration. So, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.
Do your exercise at home, or, if your goal is to be social join a club or gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot solve them. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.