ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go undiagnosed for ADHD since symptoms are more evident in females. They can also be mistaken for other conditions, which can delay referral.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and treated as needed. Adolescence, adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify, especially in women. This is because many of the symptoms are different in females. For example, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, many women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. Because of this, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems like anxiety or depression.
ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men and doctors may not be familiar with the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't seen by doctors as frequently. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They may resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can get worse as women enter perimenopausal or menopausal. This is because they be affected by hormonal changes that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It can also be difficult for them to follow routines and manage their tasks. This can impact their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait times for assessments are frustrating and stressful for those who aren't in a position to get the help they need. This is especially true for those on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. It is crucial to inform your GP that you think you may have ADHD because they will need to take this seriously and ask for an appointment. You must also state why you believe you might be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and aid in speeding up the process. You could also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, particularly when they reach adulthood aren't always obvious. They might develop strategies to conceal their issues and they could be detrimental to their health. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teens who are unplanned and have early-stage pregnancy.
GPs take reports of ADHD very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to the best service for you - this is usually a community mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be long and in some instances it can be difficult to be diagnosed because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the person's problems are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to collaborate with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a continuous process that can last for a lifetime. Treatment can ease some of your symptoms and diet changes can help. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. A diet high in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be useful for you because they are extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques by a trained instructor. adhd in women signs can help you find the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD might exhibit less obvious symptoms than men. This is probably due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it harder to diagnose them. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any signs. In fact, they could be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognise. Additionally, they may have trouble 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 face problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions and keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can lead them to burnout which can negatively impact their job and career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. In addition, they may have trouble with their emotions and are frequently misunderstood by others. For example, mood changes could be interpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups can be found on the internet and in person. These groups are a great place to receive advice on the diagnosis options for both children and adults as well as how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their challenges, goals and achievements. The details of the meeting on their website or Facebook page. You can contact them if you have any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD may face unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings and anger.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help to reduce excess energy and increase focus and concentration. Therefore, you should try to include a regular workout routine into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or a gym. Just remember, that while exercise can reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to solve them all on its own. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.