ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go not being diagnosed with ADHD as symptoms are less apparent in females. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions, which can delay the diagnosis.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females with ADHD need to be investigated and addressed as appropriate. Adolescence, pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and exacerbate ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, especially for women. This is because many of the symptoms are different in females. For instance, while males tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have difficulty in concentrating or staying still. They may be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more common in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't referred to doctors as quickly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than males and are less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out to hide their behavior and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopause or perimenopausal. This is due to the fact that they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. They may be unable to stay on top of things and follow routines. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait for assessments is frustrating and stressful for people who haven't been able to access the help they need. This is especially relevant for those who are who are on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who can conduct ADHD tests. It can take years to make an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is seeing your GP. It is important to mention to your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD since they will have to take it seriously and request an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can assist in the speedy process. You may also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to diagnose due to the fact that their symptoms, especially as they age might not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful since they can attempt to hide their problems. These include drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously and will ask you about your symptoms. They will then recommend the most appropriate service for you. This is usually a community mental health clinic or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are long and in some cases it can be difficult to be referred due to the lack of seriousness with how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes the person's issues are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) rather than ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist that is aware of the disorder and is willing to work with your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Medication and dietary changes may aid in reducing your symptoms. For example, eating a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can exacerbate these symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation could be beneficial for you because they can be extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified instructor. The NHS service locator will help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD might exhibit less obvious symptoms than men. This is likely due to the fact that females don't have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this is not to suggest that they don't have any symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to spot, like inattention ADHD. Additionally, they may struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause tensions in relationships, especially with males.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions and juggling deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These challenges can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily and a lack of organization. They may also be susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They can also have difficulty communicating their feelings, and are often not understood. For instance mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are offered online and in person. They are an excellent way to receive information on the diagnosis process for both adults and children as well as tips on how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and accomplishments. You can find the details of the meeting on their website or Facebook page. You can also reach them with any questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, release of feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. In addition, it helps reduce excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Try to include regular exercise into your day.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you want to socialize join a club or gym. Exercise can help with certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot cure the symptoms. It is best to combine it with other strategies to treat symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.