ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often not being diagnosed with ADHD because the symptoms are less apparent in females. They can also be misdiagnosed as other conditions, which can delay the diagnosis.
It is crucial to understand and treat the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD. Transitional periods such as adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to recognize in adulthood, especially for women. This is because a lot of the symptoms are different in females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically struggle to concentrate or sit still. They may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men, so doctors might not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis, since females are not referred to doctors as often. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than men, making them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They might resort to strategies to cope, like hiding behind makeup or acting out to cover up their actions and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. They might also have difficulty to keep track of their activities and stick to routines. This could affect how they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to get the help they require. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to get an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons behind why you think you might have ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and assist in the speedy process. You could also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to identify due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood might not be as obvious. They may develop strategies to conceal their issues which can be very damaging. Some of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in a higher rate of sexually transmitted diseases, teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
The GPs will take any reports of ADHD very seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will refer you to the best service for you. This usually is a mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are lengthy and, in some instances it can be difficult to be referred due to the lack of seriousness which the problem is dealt with. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes the person's difficulties are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD challenges. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms, and dietary changes can also make a difference. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation could be beneficial for you because they can be very efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified teacher. The NHS service locator will help you locate the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD often have less visible symptoms than those with ADHD. This could be due to the fact that females don't display as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. This doesn't mean they do not have symptoms. 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 lead to broken relationships or even breakups particularly with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty following instructions and keeping track of deadlines and completing commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout, which could negatively impact their career and job performance.
The most frequent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and a lack of organization. They may also be susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, they can be troubled by their emotions and are often thought of as a victim by other people. For instance mood swings could be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are still many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are offered on the internet as well as in person. These groups are a great place to seek advice on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well how to manage your condition.
There are a variety of adult ADHD support groups across the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals and successes. You can find the information on the meeting on their website or Facebook page. You can also contact them with questions if you'd like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face unique difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes may trigger or exacerbate emotional problems like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. see it here can also help to reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a more social environment you can join a class or gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate them. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to complete 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week.