ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. They are also often misdiagnosed as other conditions and delay the diagnosis.
It is essential to investigate and address the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to identify in adulthood, especially for women. The symptoms are different for women. For example, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They may be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, like anxiety or depression.
ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't referred to doctors as quickly. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely get noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies that include concealing their face with makeup or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviors.
The symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging for them to follow routines and manage their tasks. This can impact their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Waiting times for assessments can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to receive the help they require. This is particularly 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 get an appointment.
The first step in receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to 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 may have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to aid in speeding up the process. You may also receive an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Speak with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to diagnose, in part because their symptoms, particularly as they age aren't always obvious. These strategies can be harmful, because they might attempt to hide their problems. Some of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis and trying to create social connections by engaging in risky activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases, teenage, unplanned and early pregnancy.
GPs take reports of ADHD very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will direct you to the appropriate service for you. This is usually a community mental health clinic or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long, and in some cases it can be difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or believe that the person's problems are due to something else (like depression, anxiety or abuse of drugs) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist that is aware of the issue and will work with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. Medication and dietary changes may help to reduce the symptoms. For example, eating an a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less noticeable. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be beneficial to you because they are extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught 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 tend to find their symptoms less obvious than men. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it harder for them to be diagnosed. However, this does not mean they are not suffering from symptoms. In reality, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to detect. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to tensions in relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to have difficulties with school and work. They may have difficulty following directions or deadlines, as well as keeping on top of their 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 with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily and aren't organized. adhd in women treatment could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. They may also have difficulties in expressing their emotions and are often not understood. For instance, mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is an online support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online as well as 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 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 suffering from ADHD to share their challenges, successes and hopes. You can find the information on the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. You can contact them with any questions or wish to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms like mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help control excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Try to incorporate regular exercise into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social setting, join a group class or a gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms however it cannot solve the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies to treat symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.