ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less obvious. They are also often misdiagnosed as other conditions which may delay the diagnosis.
It is crucial to understand and treat the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in women suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify particularly in women. This is because many of the symptoms differ for females. For example, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. They might be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it is more common in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't referred to doctors as quickly. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely be noticed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies that include wearing make-up or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are experiencing menopausal or perimenopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. They might also have difficulty to keep track of their activities and adhere to routines. This can impact their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
Waiting times for assessments can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they require. This is particularly relevant for 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 get an appointment.
The first step to get a diagnosis is seeing your GP. You should tell your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. adhd symptoms in women test should also explain the reasons you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can assist in the speedy process. You can also attempt to obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, especially when they are adults, may not be as obvious. These strategies can be harmful, as they may try to cover up their problems. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activity are all examples of high-risk actions. Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. Then they will refer you to the appropriate service for your needs. This usually is a mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long, and in some cases it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes the person's issues are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist, it is important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the condition, and is willing to tackle your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is especially helpful for people with ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and diet changes can help. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet high in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques like meditation might be helpful for you. They are useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques from a qualified teacher. You can find one near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than men. This could be due to the fact that females don't display as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This makes it more difficult to identify them. However, this is not to say that they don't have any signs. In fact, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognise. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in ruptures or broken relationships particularly with males.
Women who have inattentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties with school and work. They can have trouble following instructions and juggling deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout that could negatively impact their job and career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and aren't organized. They may also be susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They may also have trouble communicating their feelings, and are often misunderstood. For example, mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are still many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online or in person. They are a great way to get guidance on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their challenges, goals and successes. The details of the meeting on their website or Facebook page. Contact adhd symptoms in women test if you have any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD have unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help to manage excess energy, and improve focus and attention. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine.
Exercise at home or, if you'd like to socialize take part in a group or join a gym. Be aware that although exercise can reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD, it won't fix them completely by itself - it is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. The ideal goal is to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.