ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less obvious. They may also be mistaken for other conditions, which can delay referral.
It is crucial to understand and manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose, especially in women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms are different for females. While men are more active and impulsive, women often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They might be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is more frequently observed in males and females, so doctors might not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis because women aren't referred as swiftly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than men, making them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out to hide their behavior and emotions.
Symptoms of ADHD can get worse as women enter perimenopausal or menopausal. This is due to the fact that they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. see it here might also find it harder to keep track of things and follow routines. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
Waiting times for assessments can cause stress and frustration for those who are unable to get the help they require. This can be particularly true for those who are on the NHS since there are a small number of doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments and it can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in obtaining the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will take this seriously and will request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. Alternately, you can consider obtaining an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Speak with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose, in part because their symptoms, especially as they age might not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful as they may attempt to hide their problems. A few of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis and trying to build social support by engaging in risky activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in more sexually transmitted illnesses and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. Then they will refer you to the appropriate service for you. This usually is a mental health clinic or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long, and in some cases it can be difficult to be referred because the problem isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes that the person's issues are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs) rather than ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended, it is important to choose a therapist who understands the condition, and will work with your ADHD issues. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. The use of medication and diet changes can help reduce your symptoms. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet high in sugars and junk food may exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices such as meditation might be helpful for you. They can be very beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a trained teacher. The NHS service locator will help you locate a provider near you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might have less apparent symptoms than men. This could be due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult to identify them. This does not mean that they do not have symptoms. In fact, they could have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognise. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to have difficulties with school and work. They may have trouble following 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 lead to burnout which can negatively impact their career and job performance.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They might also be prone to depression and self-doubt. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are often thought of as a victim by other people. For instance mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges, there are still many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is a support group that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can be found on the internet and 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 illness.
There are many adult ADHD support groups in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their struggles, goals and accomplishments. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page and website. You can reach them with any questions or wish to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD have particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, release of feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. Additionally, it can help control excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your day.
Do your exercise at home, or, if your goal is to socialize join a club or gym. Exercise can alleviate certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not cure them. It should be combined with other strategies to manage symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.