ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go undiagnosed for ADHD because the symptoms are less obvious in females. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other disorders, which can delay the diagnosis.
It is crucial to understand and treat the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to recognize in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because many of the symptoms differ for females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They could be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is also more often seen in boys and men, so doctors might not be familiar with the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis since females often don't get referred as swiftly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies like hiding behind make-up or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviors.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. They might also find it harder to keep track of their activities and stick to routines. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other obligations.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and anger for those who are unable to get the help they need. adhd in women signs is especially applicable to those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and request a referral. It is also important to explain the reasons why you think you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and aid in speeding up the process. You can also attempt to obtain an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, especially when they are adults aren't always evident. adhd in women checklist can be harmful, since they can attempt to hide their problems. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
GPs will take any report of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then recommend a treatment that is most suitable for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are lengthy and, in some instances, it is difficult to get referred because of the lack of seriousness which the problem is treated. This could be because the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or think that the person's challenges are due to something else (like depression, anxiety or substance misuse) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended, it is important to select a therapist that is aware of the condition, and is willing to tackle your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Treatment can ease some of your symptoms, and dietary changes can also make a difference. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in junk food and sugar can exacerbate these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be beneficial for you. They are beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified teacher. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD typically have less visible symptoms than males. This could be because females don't exhibit as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This can make it difficult to diagnose them. However, this is not to say that they don't have any symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to spot, like inattention ADHD. In addition, they could have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD are more likely to have difficulties with work and school. They can have trouble following instructions, keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These challenges can lead them to burnout, which can negatively impact their job and career.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and are not organized. They are also susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They may also have trouble with their emotions and are often misunderstood by others. For instance mood swings could be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are still many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are accessible on the internet as well as in person. These groups are an excellent way to seek advice on diagnostic methods for both children and adults as well how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their challenges, goals and accomplishments. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page or website. You can contact them if you have any questions or would like to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD may face particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings, and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help manage excess energy, and increase focus and concentration. Try to incorporate regular exercise into your day.
Do your exercise at home, or, if your goal is to be social take part in a group or gym. Just remember, that while exercising can help alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD however, it will not fix them completely on its own - it is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.