ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go undiagnosed for ADHD as symptoms are less evident in females. They may also be mistaken for other conditions, which could delay referral.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD need to be investigated and addressed as appropriate. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and exacerbate ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to identify in adulthood, especially for women. This is because many symptoms are different in females. For instance, while males tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty in concentrating or staying still. They could be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is more frequently observed in men and boys So doctors may not be familiar with the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't referred to doctors as quickly. Girls can also hide symptoms better than boys. This makes them less likely be noticed by parents or teachers. They may resort to coping methods like hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. It is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. They may also find it harder to stay on top of things and follow routines. This can affect how well they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait for assessments is frustrating and stressful for those who haven't been able to access 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 and it can take years to get an appointment.
The first step towards receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and will request a referral. It is also important to explain the reasons behind why you think you might have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to aid in speeding up the process. Alternately, 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 signs aren't as evident, especially as an adult. These strategies can be harmful because they might try to conceal their problems. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as 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 have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teens, unplanned and early pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then refer you to the most appropriate service for your needs. This usually is a mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are long and in some cases it can be difficult to refer someone because of the lack of seriousness with which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred to a therapist, it's important to choose a therapist who understands the issue and is willing to tackle your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people with ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication and diet changes can help to reduce the symptoms. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. A diet high in sugars and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation could be beneficial for you as they can be extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified instructor. The NHS service locator can help you find an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than those with ADHD. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, this is not to say that they aren't suffering from any signs. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. In addition, they can struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to tensions in relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to experience problems at school and at work. They may have trouble adhering to instructions in completing deadlines and keeping on top of commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can cause burnout, which could have a negative impact on their job performance and their career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily, and poor organisation. They may also be prone self-doubt and depression. adult adhd symptoms women may also have trouble expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For example mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online as well as in person. They are an excellent way to receive information on the diagnosis process for adults and children, as well as tips on how to manage your condition.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their challenges, goals, and successes. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can contact them with any questions or want to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. see it here can cause or worsen emotional symptoms like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reduce stress. It can also help manage excess energy, and increase focus and improve attention. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your day.
You can exercise at home or, if you'd like to socialize join a club or gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms but it can't eliminate them. It should be combined with other strategies to treat symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to complete 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week.