ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. They can also be mistaken for other disorders and this can delay the diagnosis.
The signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females with ADHD need to be investigated and addressed as appropriate. The transitional phases of adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because many symptoms are different for females. While men are more active and impulsive, women often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They could be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it is more prevalent in men and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis, as females aren't referred to doctors as frequently. Girls also tend to 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 putting on a show to conceal their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopause or perimenopause. This is due to the fact that they experience hormonal fluctuations that make them more prone to mood swings. They may also have difficulty to keep track of things and adhere to routines. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for assessments are causing stress and frustration for people who haven't been able to access the assistance they require. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS, as there is a small number of doctors who carry out ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD since they will have to take it seriously and request an appointment. You must also provide the reasons you believe you may have ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You could also receive an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are often harder to recognize than men, mainly because the signs aren't as evident, especially as an adult. They may develop strategies to hide their problems and they could be detrimental to their health. These include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
GPs will take any report of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to the most appropriate service for you - this typically a community mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are lengthy and, in some instances it can be difficult to refer someone due to the lack of seriousness which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the person's issues are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs) rather than ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist that is aware of the disorder and is willing to tackle your ADHD problems. Some therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. The use of medication and diet changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. For instance, an a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less apparent. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in sugar and junk foods can increase these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be useful for you because they can be extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques by a trained teacher. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might exhibit more subtle symptoms than males. This is likely due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult to identify them. But, that's not to say that they aren't suffering from any signs. In fact, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognize. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to face problems at school and at work. They can have trouble adhering to instructions, keeping track of deadlines and completing commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout, which could negatively impact their job and career.
The most frequent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily, and poor organisation. They are also susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also struggle with their emotions and are frequently misunderstood by others. For instance, mood swings could be interpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is an online support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. These groups are a great way to receive advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, and also how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. adhd in adult women test provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their challenges, goals and successes. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page and website. You can also reach them with any questions if you'd like to attend a future event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings and irritation.
Exercise can ease these symptoms, by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help to manage excess energy, and increase focus and concentration. Therefore, 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 a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate them. It is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. The ideal goal is to get 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.