ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often undiagnosed for ADHD as symptoms are less evident for females. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other conditions which may delay the referral.
Symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females with ADHD need to be investigated and addressed as appropriate. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and exacerbate ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly for women. adhd symptoms in women test is due to the fact that many of the symptoms are different for females. While men are more active and impulsive, females often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD, as it is more common in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis since women aren't referred as swiftly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than boys, making them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their face with makeup or putting on a show to conceal their emotions and behavior.
Symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women experience perimenopausal or menopausal. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It can also be difficult to follow routines and manage their tasks. This could affect how they manage their work, home and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait for assessments is frustrating and stressful for those who haven't been in a position to get the help they need. This is especially applicable to those on the NHS since there are only a few doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to tell your GP that you believe you may have ADHD since they will have to take it seriously and ask for an appointment. You must also provide the reasons why you think you may have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can aid in speeding up the process. Alternately, you can try to get an assessment through private healthcare.
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 aren't always evident. They might develop strategies to hide their problems and they can be very damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution and criminal activity are all examples of high-risk activities. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to experience more sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
The GPs will take any reports of ADHD very seriously and will ask about your symptoms. They will then refer you to the most appropriate service for your needs. This typically a community mental health service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long and in some instances it can be difficult to be diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be because the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD or believe that the individual's issues are due to other factors (like depression, anxiety or substance misuse) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work alongside your ADHD challenges. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a continuous process that can last for a lifetime. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. A diet high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet that is high in sugars and junk food may increase the severity of these symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be useful for you because they can be extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques with a certified teacher. You can find one near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than those with ADHD. This is probably because females don't exhibit as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this isn't to say that they don't have any signs. In fact, they could be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize. In addition, they could have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in strained or dissolved relationships particularly with males.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD are more likely to have difficulties with work and school. They may have difficulty following instructions, keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout, which could negatively impact their job and career.
Some of the most prevalent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and having a poor organization. They may also be prone self-doubt and depression. They may also struggle with their emotions and are frequently thought of as a victim by other people. For example, mood changes could be interpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups can be found online or in person. They are a great way to get advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, and also how to manage your condition.
There are a variety of adult ADHD support groups in 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 to talk about their struggles, successes and aspirations. The meeting details can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can also reach them with any questions you may have if you'd like to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help control excess energy, increase focus and improve attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a more social environment you can join a class or gym. Exercise can help with certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not eliminate them. It is best to combine it with other strategies to treat symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.