ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women often go undiagnosed for ADHD as symptoms are less evident for females. They may also be mistaken for other disorders and this can delay referral.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females with ADHD need to be investigated and treated as needed. Periods of transition such as adolescence and pregnancy can also cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify particularly in women. This is because many of the symptoms differ in females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems like depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis as women aren't referred as quickly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than boys which makes them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their face with makeup or acting out to hide their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopausal. 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 adhere to routines. This can impact how they manage their work, home and other obligations.
Waiting times for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration to those who aren't able to get the help they need. This is particularly applicable to those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD tests. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will take this seriously and ask for an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons behind why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You can also try to obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify than men, mainly because the signs aren't so obvious, particularly in adulthood. These strategies can be harmful as they may try to cover up their problems. 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. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases, teens, unplanned and early pregnancy.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is the most appropriate for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be lengthy and in some instances it can be difficult to get diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's problems are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
After adhd in women symptoms 've been referred to a therapist, it is important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the disorder and is willing to work with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process. Treatment can ease some of your symptoms and dietary changes can also make a difference. For instance, an a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less pronounced. A diet rich in sugars and junk food may exacerbate these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation could be beneficial for you. They can be extremely useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified teacher. The NHS service locator can help you find the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD typically notice their symptoms are less apparent than males. This is likely due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult to diagnose them. However, this isn't to say that they don't have any signs. They might have ADHD symptoms that are harder to detect, such as inattention ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause ruptures or broken relationships particularly with males.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty following instructions and keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They can also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These issues can lead to burnout, which could have a negative impact on their job performance and career.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things, and poor organisation. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have difficulties communicating their feelings, and are often misunderstood. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden rage or anger.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is an online support group specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. They are an excellent way to receive guidance on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as tips on how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking 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 offer a safe place for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their struggles, successes and hopes. The information on the meeting on their website or Facebook page. You can also reach them with any questions if you'd like to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, by release of feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase concentration and attention. Try to incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine.
You can exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize, join a group or join a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot cure them. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to complete 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week.