ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often undiagnosed for ADHD as symptoms are less obvious in females. They are also often misdiagnosed as other disorders which may delay the diagnosis.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD need to be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. The transitional phases of adolescence and pregnancy can also cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to identify in adulthood, especially for women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms differ for females. While men are more active and impulsive, women typically have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety.
ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men So doctors may not be aware of the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis since females aren't often referred to as quickly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may use coping techniques like hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is due to the fact that they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. They may also find it harder to keep track of their activities and follow routines. This can impact their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait for assessments is causing stress and frustration for those who aren't able to access 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 years to make an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You should tell your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and request an appointment. adhd in women checklist should also explain why you believe you have ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. Alternatively, you can try to get an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, particularly as they age aren't always evident. These strategies can be harmful, because they might attempt to hide their problems. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is most suitable for you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be lengthy, and in some cases it can be difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes that the person's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety or addiction to drugs) instead of ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended 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 are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people with ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a continuous process. The use of medication and diet changes can help to reduce the symptoms. For example, eating an a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less pronounced. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in sugar and junk food can increase these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be useful for you because they can be extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a trained teacher. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might exhibit less apparent symptoms than men. This is likely because females don't exhibit as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, this does not mean they do not have symptoms. In reality, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect. Additionally, they may struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause tensions in relationships, especially with men.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD are more likely to struggle with work and school. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions, keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They may 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.
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things and a lack of organization. They could also be susceptible to depression and self-doubt. They may also have difficulties communicating their feelings, and are often misinterpreted. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are a lot of resources available to adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are accessible both online as well as in person. They are great ways to get advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, and also how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their challenges, goals and successes. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page and website. Contact them with any questions or wish to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD can face unique issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms, such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can ease the symptoms by release of feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. So, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social setting take part in a group class or a gym. Be aware that although exercising can help alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't solve them all by itself - it must be combined with other symptom-management strategies. Ideally, you should aim to get 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.