ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women often go not being diagnosed with ADHD as symptoms are less obvious in females. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions, which can delay the diagnosis.
The signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and treated as needed. Periods of transition such as adolescence and pregnancy can also cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to recognize in adulthood, especially for women. click the next document is because many of the symptoms are different in females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often struggle to concentrate or sit still. Because of this, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems like depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD, as it is more common in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis since females often don't get referred as swiftly. Girls can also hide symptoms better than boys. This means they are less likely to get noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies like concealing their face with makeup or acting out to hide their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopause or perimenopause. look at more info is because they can be affected by hormonal changes that make them more prone to mood swings. It may also be difficult for them to follow routines and manage their tasks. This can impact their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for tests are frustrating and stressful for those who haven't been in a position to get the assistance they require. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to make an appointment.
The first step towards receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is essential to mention to your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD because they'll need to be attentive and ask for an appointment. You must also provide the reasons you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and help speed up the process. You could also receive an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Speak to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, especially when they are adults aren't always obvious. These strategies can be harmful, as they may attempt to hide their problems. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build support for their friends 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 diseases, teenage, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
The GPs will take any reports of ADHD extremely serious and will inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will direct you to the best service for your needs. This typically a community mental health clinic or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long In some instances, it can be difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be because the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD or they think that the person's challenges are due to other factors (like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist, it is important to select a therapist that is aware of the issue and is willing to tackle your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help to reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and junk foods can increase these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques like meditation could be beneficial for you. They are helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified teacher. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to have less visible symptoms than those with ADHD. This is likely 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 are not suffering from symptoms. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. In addition, they could have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships particularly with men.
Women who have inattentive ADHD are more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have difficulty following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping on top of their commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their work performance and career.
The most frequent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily and having a poor organization. They may also be prone self-doubt and depression. They may also struggle with their emotions and are often misunderstood by others. For instance, mood swings could be interpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is an online support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are accessible 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 illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their struggles, goals and achievements. The meeting details on their website and their Facebook page. You can reach them with any questions or wish to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face particular challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, producing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help control excess energy and improve focus and attention. Make sure to incorporate an exercise routine that you regularly do in your daily routine.
Do your exercise at home, or, if your goal is to be social join a club or join a gym. Just remember, that while exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to solve them all by itself - it should be paired with other symptom-management strategies. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.