ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. adult adhd in women is possible to misdiagnose them as other conditions which may delay referral.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females with ADHD should be explored and addressed as appropriate. Adolescence, pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. The symptoms are different for women. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble being able to concentrate or sit still. Because of this, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
More methods might not be aware with ADHD because it is more prevalent 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 boys. This means they are less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies like wearing make-up or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is due to the fact that they be affected by hormonal changes that make them more prone to mood swings. They might also find it harder to stay on top of things and follow routines. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
The waiting time for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration for those who are unable to receive the assistance they require. This is especially applicable to those on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can conduct ADHD tests. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is seeing your GP. adhd in women adult is crucial to tell your GP that you think you might have ADHD because they'll need to take it seriously and ask for an appointment. You should also explain the reasons behind why you think you might have ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You can also consider obtaining an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly as they age aren't always obvious. These strategies can be harmful as they may attempt to hide their issues. This includes drinking heavily, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends through high risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity 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.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. Then, they will refer you to the appropriate service for you. This usually is a mental health clinic or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are long and, in some instances it can be difficult to be referred because of the lack of seriousness which the problem is dealt with. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware 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.
It is essential to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people with ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms and diet modifications can also make a difference. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. A diet high in sugars and junk food may cause these symptoms to worsen.
You should also ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods, such as meditation, might be helpful for you. They can be extremely useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a trained teacher. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might have more subtle symptoms than males. This could be due to the fact that females don't display as many hyperactive or impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. This does not mean that they do not have symptoms. In fact, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty following directions and keeping track of deadlines and completing commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can cause burnout, which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and their professional career.
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily, and poor organisation. They may also be prone self-doubt and depression. They can also have difficulty in expressing their emotions and are often not understood. For example, mood changes can be misinterpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these challenges there are many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. They are a great way to get 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. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their challenges, goals and accomplishments. The meeting details on their website or Facebook page. You can reach them with any questions or want to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD can face particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms, such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Try to incorporate an exercise routine that you regularly do in your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social setting take part in a group class or a gym. Be aware that although exercise can reduce certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't fix them completely on its own. It should be paired with other strategies for managing symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.