ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are not as evident. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other conditions and delay the diagnosis.
It is important to explore and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose, especially in women. signs of adhd in women is due to the fact that many of the symptoms differ for females. For example, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems like depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD because it is more prevalent in males and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't often referred to as quickly. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than males which makes them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies that include wearing make-up or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is because they can be affected by hormonal changes that cause mood swings. They might be unable to keep track of their activities and follow routines. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting for assessments is frustrating and stressful for people who haven't been successful in getting the assistance they require. This is particularly applicable to those on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD tests. It can take years to make an appointment.
The first step towards getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is important to mention to your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD because they will need to take it seriously and ask for a referral. You must also provide the reasons why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can help speed up the process. You may also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Speak to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to identify due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly when they are adults might not be as evident. They may develop compensatory strategies to conceal their issues, and these can be extremely damaging. These include drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build support for their friends through high risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD very seriously and will ask about your symptoms. Then, they will recommend the appropriate service for your needs. This usually is a mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be long and in some instances it is difficult to get referred because the problem isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be because the GP does not know about adult ADHD or believe that the individual's issues are due to something else (like depression, anxiety, or abuse of drugs) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to collaborate with your ADHD challenges. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Treatment and dietary changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. For example, eating an a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less noticeable. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in sugar and junk foods can increase these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation could be beneficial to you, as they are extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified instructor. signs of adhd in women can help you locate a provider near you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might have more subtle symptoms than males. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it harder for them to be diagnosed. This does not mean that they do not have symptoms. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause tensions in relationships, especially with men.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They can have trouble following directions, keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their career and job performance.
The most frequent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and having a poor organization. They might also be prone to depression and self-doubt. They can also have difficulty expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For example, mood changes could be interpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online or in person. They are great ways to get information on the diagnosis process for adults and children, as well as how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking 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 wish to talk about their challenges, goals and accomplishments. The information about the meeting are available on their Facebook page or on their website. You can contact them with any questions or wish to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD have particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes may cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings, and irritation.
Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and reducing stress. It can also help manage excess energy, and improve focus and attention. So, try to include a regular workout routine into your day.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you'd like to socialize take part in a group or join a gym. Exercise can ease some ADHD symptoms however it cannot solve them. It should be combined with other strategies to treat symptoms. The ideal goal is to do 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.