ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less obvious. They can also be mistaken for other disorders and this could delay referral.
Symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be explored and treated as needed. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to identify in adulthood, especially for women. A lot of the symptoms are different for women. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, females often struggle to concentrate or sit still. As a result, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis since females often don't get referred as frequently. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind make-up or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopause or perimenopause. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. They might also have difficulty to stay on top of things and stick to routines. This could affect how they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and anger to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they require. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is seeing your GP. It is essential to inform your GP that you believe you may have ADHD since they will have to be attentive and ask for a referral. It is also important to explain the reasons why you think you might have ADHD. navigate to these guys can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You could also obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD can be harder to diagnose than men, partly because the signs aren't as evident, especially in adulthood. They might develop strategies to hide their problems which can be very damaging. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. adhd in women adults with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in more sexually transmitted diseases, teenage, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
GPs take reports of ADHD very seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. Then they will recommend the best service for you - this typically a community mental health service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are long and, in some instances it can be difficult to be referred due to the lack of seriousness which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes the person's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is able to collaborate with your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can exacerbate these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices like meditation could be beneficial for you. They are beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques from a qualified teacher. The NHS service locator will help you locate a provider near you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than men. This could be because females don't exhibit as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this isn't to say that they don't have any signs. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. Additionally, they may struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause broken relationships or even breakups particularly with males.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They may have trouble adhering to instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping the track of commitments. They might also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout which can have a negative effect on their performance at work and career.
Women with adult ADHD often have trouble staying focused, forgetting easily and are not organized. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. In addition, they may struggle with their emotions and are frequently not understood by others. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these issues there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online or in person. These groups are an excellent way to seek advice on diagnostic methods for both children and adults and also how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to discuss their struggles, successes and goals. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page and website. You can also contact them with questions in the event that you'd like to join a future event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD can face unique issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes may cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings, and anger.
Exercise can ease the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. In addition, it helps reduce excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Make sure to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your day.
You can exercise at home or, if your goal is to be social take part in a group or join a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not eliminate the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies to manage symptoms. The ideal goal is to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout every week.