ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often not being diagnosed with ADHD because the symptoms are less obvious in females. It is possible to mistake them for other disorders and this can delay the diagnosis.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be explored and addressed as appropriate. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence may cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly for women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms differ in females. While men are more active and impulsive, females often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. This means that they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis, since females aren't referred to doctors as frequently. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They may resort to strategies for coping, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopause or perimenopausal. This is due to the fact that they have hormonal fluctuations that can cause mood swings. They may also have difficulty to keep track of things and follow routines. This can affect their ability to manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for assessments are frustrating and stressful for those who aren't in a position to get the help they need. This is particularly relevant for those on the NHS, as there is a limited number of doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is seeing your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. adhd in adult women will take this seriously and request an appointment. You must also state the reasons why you think you have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and aid in speeding 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 than men, mainly because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly when they are adults. These strategies can be harmful, since they can try to cover up their problems. These include drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls with ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
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 specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long In some instances, it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be because the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD or believe that the individual's issues are caused by other factors (like anxiety, depression or abuse of drugs) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the issue and is willing to tackle your ADHD problems. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Treatment can ease some of your symptoms and dietary changes can also make a difference. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in sugar and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques like meditation could be beneficial to you because they are extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified instructor. 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 notice their symptoms are less apparent than men. This is likely due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it harder to diagnose them. However, this isn't to say that they don't have any signs. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships particularly with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions and keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can cause burnout, which could have a negative impact on their performance at work and their professional career.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily and having a poor organization. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are often not understood by others. For example, mood changes can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges, there are still many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program 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 both adults and children as well as tips on how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their challenges, goals, and achievements. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can also contact them with any questions in the event that you'd like to join an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues like mood swings and irritation.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase concentration and attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or gym. Just remember, that while exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD however, it will not solve them all on its own. It should be paired with other strategies for managing symptoms. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.