ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the signs aren't as evident. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other disorders, which can delay the referral.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be investigated and addressed as appropriate. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence can unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to identify in adulthood, especially for women. The symptoms differ for women. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They might be misdiagnosed as having mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD, as it is more common in men and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females aren't often referred to as quickly. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They might use strategies to cope, like hiding behind makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging to keep track of routines and keep track of their tasks. This could affect how they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Waiting times for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they need. This is particularly applicable to those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step towards receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. Web Site must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. You should also explain why you believe you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to assist in the speedy process. You can also attempt to obtain an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they are adults might not be as evident. They may develop compensatory strategies to hide their problems which can be extremely damaging. These include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to the best service for you. This usually is a mental health service 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 isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP does not know about adult ADHD, or because they believe that the person's problems are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms, and diet modifications can help. For example, eating a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less pronounced. A diet that is high in sugars and junk food may exacerbate these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation might be beneficial to you because they can be extremely effective in helping people 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 who suffer from ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than men. This could be 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 for them to get diagnosed. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any signs. In reality, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize. In addition, they can have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They can have trouble adhering to instructions and juggling deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and their career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. They may also have difficulties expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For example mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are still many resources available for adults with 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. These groups are a great way to seek advice on diagnostic methods for both children and adults as well as how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their struggles, successes and aspirations. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page or on their website. You can also reach them with any questions you may have if you'd like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD have particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, releasing feel good hormones and reducing stress. It can also help reduce excess energy and increase focus and improve attention. So, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or gym. Exercise can help with some ADHD symptoms, but it will not solve them. It should be incorporated with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout every week.