ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women often go undiagnosed for ADHD because the symptoms are less evident in females. They may also be mistaken for other conditions, which can delay the diagnosis.
The signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be explored and treated as needed. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose, especially in women. This is because many of the symptoms are different in females. For example, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, many women have trouble being able to concentrate or sit still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems like anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in males and boys. adhd in women uk can lead to delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as frequently. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than males and are less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may use coping techniques, such as concealing their face with makeup or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is due to the fact that they experience hormonal fluctuations that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It may also be difficult for them to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and frustration for those who are unable to receive the assistance they require. This is especially relevant for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD tests. It can take a long time to make an appointment.
The first step towards receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will take this seriously and ask for an appointment. You must also state why you believe 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 can also attempt to obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to recognize than men, in part because the symptoms are not as obvious, especially as an adult. They may develop compensatory strategies to conceal their issues and they can be very damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teenage, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
Doctors take reports of ADHD very seriously and will ask about your symptoms. Then they will recommend the appropriate service for you. This usually is a mental health clinic or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long and, in some instances, it is difficult to refer someone because of 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 issues are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) rather than ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist that is aware of the disorder and will work with your ADHD problems. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and diet changes can make a difference too. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet that is high in sugars and junk foods can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation might be beneficial to you because they are extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified teacher. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD typically find their symptoms less obvious than those with ADHD. This is probably due to the fact that females don't display as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, this is not to say that they don't have any signs. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognise. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to experience problems at school and at work. They may have trouble following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping track of commitments. They may also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their career and job performance.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and having a poor organization. They could also be susceptible to depression and self-doubt. They can also have difficulty in expressing their emotions and are often misinterpreted. For example, mood changes can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are still many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is a support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available both online as well as in person. They are great ways to get guidance on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as tips on how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals, and accomplishments. You can find the information on the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. You can reach them with any questions or wish to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can ease the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. In addition, it helps to reduce stress and increase concentration and focus. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social setting you can join a class or a gym. Remember that although exercising can help alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't fix them completely on its own - it is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to complete 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week.