ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as obvious. They are also often misdiagnosed as other disorders, which can delay referral.
It is important to explore and manage the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence may unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify, especially in women. This is because a lot of the symptoms differ in females. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. They could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety.
ADHD is also more often observed in males and females and doctors may not be aware of the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis, since females aren't seen by doctors as frequently. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men and are less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They might resort to strategies for coping, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out to hide their behavior and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. It is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging to keep track of routines and manage their tasks. This can impact their ability to manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for assessments are causing stress and frustration for those who aren't in a position to get the assistance they require. This can be particularly the case for those on the NHS and have only a handful of doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step to get a diagnosis is seeing your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and will request an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to help speed up the process. You could also obtain an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Speak with your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly as they age, may not be as obvious. They might develop strategies to conceal their issues, and these can be extremely damaging. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activity are all examples of high-risk behaviors. add in women test with ADHD can also have increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is best suited to you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for the services may be long and in some instances it can be difficult to be diagnosed because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's problems are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) rather than ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred, it is important to choose a therapist who understands the issue and is willing to work with your ADHD problems. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people with ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a continuous process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication and diet changes can help to reduce the symptoms. For example, eating a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less pronounced. A diet high in sugars and junk food may cause these symptoms to worsen.
You should also ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices, such as meditation, could be beneficial for you. They can be extremely beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified instructor. The NHS service locator can help you locate the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than males. This is likely due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms 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. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. In addition, they can have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause ruptures or broken relationships particularly with males.
adhd in women signs with inattentive ADHD are more likely to experience problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty following instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping the track of their commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can cause burnout, which can have a negative effect on their performance at work and their career.
The most frequent symptoms and signs of ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things and having a poor organization. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. They may also have trouble with their emotions and are frequently not understood by others. For instance, mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues There are still plenty of options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is a support group specifically designed for adults suffering from 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 how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals, and successes. You can find the meeting details on their website and their Facebook page. You can also reach them with questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, releasing feel good hormones and reducing the stress. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress and increase concentration and focus. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or a gym. Just remember, that while exercise can reduce certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't cure them all on its own - it is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.