ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the signs aren't as evident. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions, which could delay referral.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be explored and treated as needed. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence can unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly in women. Many of the symptoms differ for women. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is often seen in boys and men and doctors may not be aware of the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females aren't seen by doctors as frequently. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They might use coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopause or perimenopause. This is due to the fact that they be affected by hormonal changes that make them more prone to mood swings. They may be unable to stay on top of things and follow routines. This can affect how well they manage their home, work and other obligations.
The waiting time for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they need. This can be particularly the case for those on the NHS and have a limited number of doctors that can perform ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step to receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is crucial to mention to your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD because they'll need to take this seriously and ask for an appointment. 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, which can aid in speeding up the process. You may also obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD can be harder to identify than men, in part because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly when they are adults. They may develop compensatory strategies to conceal their issues and they can be extremely damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then recommend the best service for you - this is usually a community mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be lengthy In some instances, it can be 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 the person's problems are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) instead of ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred to a therapist, you must select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the condition, and is willing to work with your ADHD problems. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. Treatment and dietary changes can help reduce your symptoms. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet that is high in sugars and junk food may cause these symptoms to worsen.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices like meditation could be beneficial for you because they can be extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified teacher. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find treatment for adhd in women who suffer from ADHD often have less visible symptoms than men. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it harder for them to be diagnosed. However, this isn't to say that they aren't suffering from any signs. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in broken relationships or even breakups, especially with men.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD are more likely to struggle at school and work. They can have trouble adhering to instructions and juggling deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout that can have a negative impact on their job and 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 may also have difficulties expressing their emotions, and are often not understood. For example mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties there are many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best is a support group that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are offered online and in person. They are a great way to get guidance on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. For example, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to share their challenges, successes and goals. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. You can reach them if you have any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD have particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can ease the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
You can exercise at home or, if you want to socialize take part in a group or gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms, but it will not cure the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.