ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are not as obvious. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions and this can delay referral.
The signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and addressed as appropriate. 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 recognize in adulthood, particularly for women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. For example, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in males and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, since females aren't referred to doctors as often. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely get noticed by their teachers or parents. They may resort to strategies to cope, like concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is due to the fact that they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. It may also be difficult to keep track of routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for tests are frustrating and stressful for those who aren't successful in getting the help they need. This is especially 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 secure an appointment.
The first step towards getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will take this seriously and request an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons why you think you may have ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You may also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Speak with your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they are adults, may not be as obvious. These strategies can be harmful because they might try to cover up their issues. These include drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution and criminal activity are all examples of high-risk actions. Girls with ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD very seriously and will ask about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is the most appropriate for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are long and, in some instances, it is difficult to get referred because of the lack of seriousness how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD, or because they think that the person's challenges are caused by something else (like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to collaborate with your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. A diet high in sugars and junk food can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices, such as meditation, might be helpful for you. They can be very helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods with a certified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD may have more subtle symptoms than males. This could be because females don't exhibit as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. This doesn't mean they do not have symptoms. In fact, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognise. Additionally, navigate to these guys may struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in ruptures or broken relationships particularly with men.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD might be more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have difficulty following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping track of commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout, which can negatively impact their job and career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble staying focused, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They may also be susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. In addition, they may struggle with their emotions and are often thought of as a victim by other people. For example mood swings could be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the best is a support group specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are accessible online as well as in person. They are a great way to get advice on diagnosis routes for both adults and children as well as how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD to discuss their challenges, successes and goals. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page or website. You can also reach them with questions if you'd like to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms like mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reduce stress. It can also help control excess energy, increase focus and concentration. Therefore, you should try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you'd like to socialize join a club or join a gym. Remember that although exercise can alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't cure them all on its own - it must be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.