ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the signs aren't as obvious. They can also be mistaken for other conditions and this can delay the diagnosis.
It is crucial to understand and manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD. attention deficit disorder in women as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly for women. This is because many symptoms are different in females. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They might be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often observed in males and females, so doctors might not be familiar with the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis since females aren't often referred to as swiftly. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than men and are less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might use strategies to cope, like concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. They may also have difficulty to stay on top of things and stick to routines. This can impact their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and anger to those who aren't able to receive the help they need. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS, as there is a limited number of doctors who conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step in getting an assessment is to see your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will take this seriously and will request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons why you think you be suffering from ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You can also attempt to obtain an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD can be harder to recognize than men, in part because the symptoms are not as obvious, especially as an adult. These strategies can be harmful since they can attempt to hide their issues. These include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build social support 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 teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously and will ask you about your symptoms. They will then recommend the appropriate service for your needs. This typically a community mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are lengthy and in some cases, it is difficult to refer someone because of the lack of seriousness how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's problems are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD challenges. Some therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly beneficial for people with ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms and dietary changes can help. For instance, an a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. On the other hand, a diet high in junk food and sugar can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices like meditation might be helpful for you. They can be very helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques with a certified instructor. The NHS service locator will help you locate the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than men. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. But, that's not to say that they aren't suffering from any signs. In reality, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize. In addition, they could have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause tensions in relationships, especially with males.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They may have trouble following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping track of commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout, which could have a negative impact on their work performance and their career.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and having a poor organization. They may also be susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They may also have difficulties communicating their feelings, and are often not understood. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best is a support group that is specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are offered online as well as in person. They are a great way to get information on the diagnosis process for children and adults, as well as how to manage your illness.
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 provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to share their challenges, successes and aspirations. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page or website. You can also reach them with any questions you may have if you'd like to attend a future event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes may trigger or exacerbate emotional problems like mood swings and anger.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It also helps reduce excess energy and increase focus and concentration. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a more social environment, join a group class or a gym. Be aware that although exercise can reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD however, it will not cure them all on its own. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout each week.