ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often undiagnosed for ADHD because the symptoms are less apparent for females. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions and this could delay the diagnosis.
Symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be explored and addressed as appropriate. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and exacerbate ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to diagnose in adulthood, especially for women. The symptoms differ for women. While men are more active and impulsive, females often struggle to concentrate or sit still. Because of this, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, since females aren't referred to doctors as frequently. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping methods that include wearing make-up or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviour.
Symptoms of ADHD can get worse as women enter perimenopausal or menopause. This is because they can be affected by hormonal changes that make them more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging to keep track of routines and manage their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
Waiting times for assessments can cause stress and anger to those who aren't able to receive the help they require. This is especially true for those on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who can conduct ADHD tests. It can take a long time to get an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is crucial to inform your GP that you think you may have ADHD since they will have to be attentive and ask for an appointment. You should also explain the reasons you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and help speed up the process. You could also get an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, especially as they age, may not be as evident. They may develop compensatory strategies to hide their problems which could be detrimental to their health. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. rates of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then direct you to the appropriate service for your needs. This usually is a mental health service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be lengthy, and in some cases it can be difficult to get diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP does not know about adult ADHD or think that the person's challenges are caused by other factors (like depression, anxiety or abuse of drugs) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist that is aware of the issue and will work with your ADHD problems. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. Medication can help to reduce certain symptoms, and diet modifications can make a difference too. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in junk food and sugar can increase these symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques like meditation could be beneficial for you, as they can be very effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques from a qualified instructor. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD typically notice their symptoms are less apparent than men. This is likely due to the fact that females don't display as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult to identify them. This doesn't mean they don't have symptoms. In fact, they could have inattention ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognise. Additionally, they may have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in tensions in relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They can have trouble following directions and juggling deadlines and keeping promises. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These issues can cause burnout, which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and their career.
The most frequent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily and a lack of organization. adhd in adult women treatment might also be prone to depression and self-doubt. They can also have difficulty in expressing their emotions and are often misunderstood. For instance, mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are still many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are offered online and in person. They are great ways to get guidance on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups across 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 successes. The meeting details can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. Contact them if you have any questions or want to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes may trigger or exacerbate emotional problems like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can ease the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and reducing stress. In addition, it helps reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not solve them. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.