ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go not being diagnosed with ADHD since symptoms are more apparent for females. They may also be mistaken for other conditions, which can delay the diagnosis.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD need to be investigated and treated as needed. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly in women. Many of the symptoms differ for women. While men are more active and impulsive, women often struggle to concentrate or sit still. Because of this, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD, as it is more prevalent in males and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis as females often don't get referred as frequently. Girls can also hide symptoms better than males. This means they are less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to strategies for coping, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and feelings.
Symptoms of ADHD can get worse as women enter perimenopausal or menopause. This is because they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. They may be unable to stay on top of things and stick to routines. This can impact how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
The waiting time for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration to those who aren't able to receive the help they require. This can be particularly the case for those on the NHS since there are a limited number of doctors who can carry out ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step to receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to mention to your GP that you believe you might have ADHD because they will need to be attentive and request a referral. It is also important to explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to help speed up the process. Alternatively, you can attempt to obtain an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD can be harder to diagnose than men, mainly because the symptoms are not as evident, especially when they are adults. They may develop strategies to cover up their problems and they can be extremely damaging. This includes drinking heavily, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends through high risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). 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.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is most suitable for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for the services may be long In some instances, it is difficult to get referred because the problem is not taken seriously enough. 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 depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work alongside your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Medication and dietary changes may help to reduce the symptoms. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. A diet that is high in sugars and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation could be useful for you because they are extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods from a qualified instructor. You can find one near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD often have less visible symptoms 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 can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. But, that's not to say that they don't have any symptoms. In fact, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognize. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained or dissolved relationships particularly with males.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They can have trouble following directions and keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They may also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and their professional career.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily and a lack of organization. They are also susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have difficulties in expressing their emotions and are often not understood. For instance, mood swings could be interpreted as a sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties there are many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can be found on the internet and in person. They are great ways to get information on the diagnosis process for both adults and children as well as how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. For instance, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals, and achievements. adhd in women test of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. You can also reach them with questions in the event that you'd like to join an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and decreasing stress. It also helps control excess energy, increase focus and improve attention. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your day.
You can exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize take part in a group or gym. Just remember, that while exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to solve them all on its own. It should be paired with other symptom-management strategies. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.