ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women often go not being diagnosed with ADHD because the symptoms are less obvious for females. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other disorders which may delay the referral.
Signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be explored and treated in the appropriate way. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence can cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms differ in females. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women often struggle to concentrate or sit still. Because of this, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it's more common in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't referred to doctors as often. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than males. This means they are less likely to get noticed by teachers or parents. They might use strategies for coping, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to disguise their behaviour and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are experiencing menopausal or perimenopause. It is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It can also be difficult to follow routines and stay on top of their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
Waiting times for assessments can cause stress and frustration for those who are unable to get the help they need. This is particularly relevant for those who are who are on the NHS since there are only a few doctors who can conduct ADHD tests. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step towards getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is crucial to mention to your GP that you think you may have ADHD because they will need to take this seriously and request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons why you think you might have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to assist in the speedy process. Alternatively, you can try to get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to identify due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly as they age might not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful, because they might attempt to hide their problems. Some of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to experience an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases, teenage, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
GPs will take any report of ADHD seriously, and should ask you about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is best suited to you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be long and in some instances it can be difficult to get referred because the problem isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD issues. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms and dietary changes can also make a difference. For example, eating an a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less pronounced. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and junk foods can worsen the symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques like meditation could be beneficial for you, as they can be very efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified instructor. The NHS service locator can help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD typically find their symptoms less obvious than those with ADHD. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult to diagnose them. This does not mean that they do not have symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are harder to spot, like inattentive ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to face problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty following instructions and keeping track of deadlines and completing commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can cause burnout, which can have a negative impact on their work performance and career.
The most frequent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily, and poor organisation. They may also be susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. Additionally, they can be troubled by their emotions and are frequently thought of as a victim by other people. For example, mood changes can be misinterpreted as sudden rage or anger.
Despite these challenges there are a lot of resources available to adults with ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are offered online as well as in person. They are an excellent way to receive advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. For example, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to share their challenges, achievements and hopes. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page or website. You can also reach them with questions if you'd like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuation and irritability.
adhd in adult women treatment can help reduce these symptoms, by release of feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help to manage excess energy, and increase focus and improve attention. Therefore, you should try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social setting, join a group class or a gym. Be aware that although exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD, it won't cure them all by itself - it is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout every week.