ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go not being diagnosed with ADHD because the symptoms are less evident in females. They can also be mistaken for other conditions, which could delay the referral.
It is crucial to understand and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females with ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence may unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to identify in adulthood, especially for women. The symptoms are different for women. For example, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They may be misdiagnosed as having mental health issues, like depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD, as it is more common in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis as women aren't referred as frequently. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than boys. This makes them less likely be noticed by parents or teachers. They may resort to strategies for coping, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is due to the fact that they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. They might be unable to stay on top of things and follow routines. This can affect how well they manage their home, work 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 can be particularly true for those who are on the NHS and have only a handful of doctors who perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in getting the diagnosis is to visit your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. You should also explain why you believe you have ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can assist in the speedy process. You can also try to get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD can be harder to recognize than men, mainly because the signs aren't as evident, especially when they are adults. They may develop strategies to cover up their problems which could be detrimental to their health. A few of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis and trying to gain social support by participating in risky activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors take reports of ADHD very seriously and will ask about your symptoms. Then they will refer you to the appropriate service for you - this is usually a community mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are lengthy and, in some instances, it is difficult to get referred due to the lack of seriousness with which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's issues are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, you must select a therapist that is aware of the issue and will work with your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Medication can help to reduce certain symptoms, and diet changes can help. For instance, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less pronounced. On the other side, a diet that is high in sugar and junk foods can worsen the symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation might be beneficial to you. They can be very helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a trained teacher. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than those with ADHD. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any signs. In fact, they could be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognise. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to broken relationships or even breakups particularly with men.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD might be more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They may have trouble following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping on top of their commitments. add test for women might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout which can negatively impact their job and career.
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, easily forgetting things, and poor organisation. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. They may also struggle with their emotions and are frequently thought of as a victim by other people. For example, mood changes can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are still many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is an online support group specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. They are an excellent way to receive advice on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking 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 space for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their struggles, goals and achievements. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can also contact them with any questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues like mood swings and irritation.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and decreasing stress. In addition, it helps to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social atmosphere you can join a class or gym. Exercise can alleviate certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate the symptoms. It is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.