ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as evident. They can also be mistaken for other conditions and this can delay the referral.
It is important to explore and treat the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. The symptoms are different for women. For instance, while males tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, many women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. This means that they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD because it is more common in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis as women aren't referred as quickly. Girls can also hide symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely be noticed by parents or teachers. They may use coping techniques, such as hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women experience perimenopausal or menopausal. see it here is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. They might be unable to stay on top of things and adhere to routines. adhd women test can affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can be stressful and cause frustration for those who are unable to receive the assistance they require. This is particularly relevant for those on the NHS and have only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD tests and it could take years to secure an appointment.
The first step towards receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is crucial to tell your GP that you believe you might have ADHD because they'll need to take this seriously and ask for a referral. You must also provide the reasons you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can assist in the speedy process. You can also try to get an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to diagnose, in part because their symptoms, especially when they are adults might not be as obvious. They might develop strategies to conceal their issues which can be very damaging. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build support for their friends by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to experience an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teens, unplanned and early pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should ask you about your symptoms. They will then direct you to the appropriate service for you. This is usually a community mental health service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be long In some instances, it can be difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD or believe that the individual's issues are caused by something else (like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD issues. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms, and dietary changes can also make a difference. For example, eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less noticeable. 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 practices such as meditation might be beneficial to you because they can be very efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a trained teacher. The NHS service locator can help you find the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD typically find their symptoms less obvious than males. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this isn't to suggest that they don't have any symptoms. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. In addition, they can struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships particularly with males.
Women who have inattentive ADHD may be more likely to struggle with work and school. adult female adhd symptoms can have trouble adhering to instructions and keeping track of deadlines and completing commitments. They can also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can cause burnout, which can have a negative impact on their job performance and their career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and aren't organized. They can also be prone to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. In addition, they may have trouble with their emotions and are often thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is a support group specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online or in person. These groups are an excellent way to seek advice on the diagnosis options for both children and adults as well as how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are many 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 discuss their challenges, successes and goals. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page and website. You can reach them with any questions or want to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD have particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues like mood swings and anger.
Exercise can reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and reducing stress. In addition, it helps to reduce stress and increase concentration and attention. So, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you want to be social join a club or gym. Be aware that although exercise can reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD, it won't cure them all on its own - it is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.