ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often undiagnosed for ADHD since symptoms are more evident in females. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions, which can delay referral.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females with ADHD need to be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence may unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify, especially in women. This is because many of the symptoms differ in females. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically struggle to concentrate or sit still. They could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often seen in adhd in young women and men and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis as females aren't often referred to as frequently. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping methods like wearing make-up or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviors.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is because they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. It can also be difficult to keep track of routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait times for assessments are causing stress and frustration for those who aren't in a position to get the assistance they require. This can be particularly relevant for those on the NHS since there are a small number of doctors that can carry out ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is seeing your GP. It is crucial to tell your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD because they'll need to take this seriously and request an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons behind why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and help speed up the process. You can also consider obtaining an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to diagnose due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood, may not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful because they might try to cover up their problems. A few of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to gain social support by participating in high-risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases, teens, unplanned and early pregnancy.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then recommend a treatment that is the most appropriate for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be lengthy In some instances, it is difficult to get referred because the problem is not taken seriously enough. This could be because the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD, or because they think that the person's challenges are due to something else (like depression, anxiety or substance misuse) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. Treatment and dietary changes can help reduce your symptoms. For instance, an a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. A diet high in sugars and junk foods can increase the severity of these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques, such as meditation, could be beneficial for you. They are beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified instructor. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD may have more subtle symptoms than males. This could be 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. This does not mean that they don't have symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are harder to spot, like inattention ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause broken relationships or even breakups particularly with males.
Women who have inattentive ADHD might be more likely to struggle at school and work. They can have trouble following instructions, keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They might 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 career and job performance.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily and are not organized. They might also be prone to depression and self-doubt. They may also have difficulties expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For example, mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is a support group that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. They are a great way to get guidance on diagnosis routes for both adults and children 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 offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and successes. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page or website. You can reach them if you have any questions or would like to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD may face unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. Plus, it can help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Try to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a more social environment, join a group class or gym. Remember that although exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD, it won't fix them completely on its own. It must be combined with other symptom-management strategies. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.