ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often not being diagnosed with ADHD since symptoms are more apparent for females. They can also be mistaken for other disorders and this could delay the diagnosis.
Signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD need to be investigated and addressed as appropriate. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify particularly in women. This is because a lot of the symptoms are different for females. For adhd in women treatment , while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have difficulty in concentrating or staying still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is more frequently observed in men and boys So doctors may not be familiar with the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, since females are not referred to doctors as frequently. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than men and are less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may resort to strategies for coping, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
Symptoms of ADHD can get worse as women enter perimenopausal or menopause. This is due to the fact that they be affected by hormonal changes that cause mood swings. It can also be difficult for them to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Waiting times 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 since there are only a few doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.
The first step in getting an assessment is to see your GP. You should tell your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and request a referral. It is also important to explain the reasons behind why you think you may have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to assist in the speedy process. You can also try to get an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Speak to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, particularly when they reach adulthood might not be as evident. They may develop strategies to cover up their problems and they can be very damaging. These include drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to experience more sexually transmitted illnesses and teens, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then recommend a treatment that is most suitable for you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be lengthy In some instances, it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the person's problems are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD challenges. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Medication can help to reduce certain symptoms, and diet modifications can help. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. A diet high in sugars and junk food may increase the severity of these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be beneficial for you as they can be very effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a trained instructor. The NHS service locator can help you find an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than males. This is likely due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. This does not mean that they don't have symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are harder to detect, such as inattention ADHD. In addition, they can have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained or dissolved relationships particularly with males.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to face problems at school and at work. They can have trouble following instructions, keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout, which could negatively impact their career and job performance.
The most frequent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things and having a poor organization. They may also be susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. In addition, they may have trouble with their emotions and are often not understood by others. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges, there are still many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best is a support group specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups can be found online or in person. They are an excellent way to receive advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as tips on how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD to talk about their challenges, achievements and goals. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page and website. Contact them if you have any questions or want to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD have unique difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can ease the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. Plus, it can help control excess energy and improve concentration and focus. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine.
You can exercise at home or, if you'd like to be social take part in a group or join a gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms however it cannot cure the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies to manage symptoms. The ideal goal is to get 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week.