ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. They can also be mistaken for other conditions and this can delay the diagnosis.
Signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be investigated and addressed as appropriate. The transitional phases of adolescence and pregnancy can also unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify particularly for women. adult female adhd symptoms differ for women. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, females often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They might be misdiagnosed as having mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is also more often seen in boys and men So doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't often referred to as frequently. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than males and are less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is due to the fact that they be affected by hormonal changes that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It may also be difficult for them to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This could affect their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait for assessments is causing stress and frustration for those who haven't been in a position to get the help they need. This is especially relevant for those on the NHS and have only a handful of doctors who perform ADHD tests and it could take years to get an appointment.
The first step in getting an assessment is to see your GP. It is essential to mention to your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD because they will need to be attentive and request an appointment. You must also state why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You may also obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD can be harder to identify than men, partly because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly as an adult. These strategies can be harmful as they may try to conceal their problems. Some of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to create social connections by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls with ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then refer you to a service that is best suited to you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long and in some cases it can be difficult to be referred due to the lack of seriousness with which the problem is dealt with. This could be due to the fact that the GP does not know about adult ADHD or they believe that the person's problems are due to other factors (like depression, anxiety, or substance misuse) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is able to collaborate with your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from 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 changes can also make a difference. For instance, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less pronounced. A diet that is high in sugars and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices like meditation might be helpful for you. They can be very beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques by a trained instructor. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to find their symptoms less obvious than males. This is probably 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 for them to get diagnosed. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any signs. In reality, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognise. In addition, they can struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in ruptures or broken relationships particularly with men.
Women who have inattentive ADHD may be more likely to have difficulties with school and work. They can have trouble adhering to instructions and juggling deadlines and meeting commitments. They can also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback from their workplace. These issues can lead to burnout which could have a negative impact on their job performance and their professional career.
The most frequent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and a lack of organization. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. They can also have difficulty communicating their feelings, and are often not understood. For example, mood changes can be misinterpreted as a sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups can be found online or in person. They are a great way to get information on the diagnosis process for adults and children, and also how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe place for adults with ADHD to discuss their struggles, successes and aspirations. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page or website. You can also contact them with questions in the event that you'd like to join the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings, and irritability.
Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and reduce stress. It also helps reduce excess energy and increase focus and concentration. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize join a club or gym. Just remember, that while exercise can alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to cure them all on its own. It must be combined with other symptom-management strategies. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.