ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. They are also often misdiagnosed as other conditions which may delay the diagnosis.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females with ADHD should be explored and treated as needed. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence can cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because many of the symptoms differ in females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it's more prevalent in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, since females are not referred to doctors as quickly. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than boys. This makes them less likely get noticed by parents or teachers. They may use coping techniques like wearing make-up or putting on a show to conceal their feelings and behaviors.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is because they be affected by hormonal changes that cause mood swings. They may also find it harder to keep track of their activities and adhere to routines. This can impact how they manage their home, work and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait for assessments is causing stress and frustration for those who aren't able to access the assistance they require. This is particularly relevant for those who are who are on the NHS since there are only a few doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining an assessment is to see your GP. It is important to inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will take this seriously and ask for a referral. It is also important to explain the reasons why you think you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and help speed up the process. You may also get an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize than men, in part because the signs aren't as obvious, especially in adulthood. They may develop compensatory strategies to cover up their problems which could be detrimental to their health. A few of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then direct you to the best service for you. This usually is a mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for the services may be long, and in some cases it can be difficult to get referred because the problem isn't treated with enough seriousness. 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 substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred, it is important to choose a therapist who understands the condition, and will work with your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. For example, eating an a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less apparent. On the other side, a diet that is high in junk food and sugar can worsen the symptoms.
You should also ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques, such as meditation, could be beneficial for you. They can be very beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified instructor. The NHS service locator will help you locate the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD often notice their symptoms are less apparent than males. This could be due to the fact that females don't have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. This does not mean that they do not have symptoms. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. adhd women test can cause difficult relationships, especially with men.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD may be more likely to struggle with school and work. They can have trouble following directions and keeping track of deadlines and completing commitments. They can also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their job and career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily and having a poor organization. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. Additionally, they can be troubled by their emotions and are frequently not understood by others. For instance, mood swings could be interpreted as a sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available 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 condition.
There are a variety of adult ADHD support groups across the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe place for adults suffering from ADHD to discuss their struggles, successes and hopes. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page or website. Contact them if you have any questions or wish to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms like mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. In addition, it helps to reduce stress and increase concentration and attention. Try to incorporate an exercise routine that you regularly do in your daily routine.
You can exercise at home or, if you'd like to socialize take part in a group or gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms but it can't cure them. It should be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. The ideal goal is to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.