ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are less obvious. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions, which could delay referral.
Signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be explored and treated in the appropriate way. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to identify in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because a lot of the symptoms are different in females. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis as women aren't referred as frequently. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
Symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It could also be challenging to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can impact their ability to 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 need. This is particularly relevant for those on the NHS, as there is only a handful of doctors who conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and ask for a referral. 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. Alternatively, you can try to get an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Speak to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, particularly as they age aren't always evident. These strategies can be harmful as they may attempt to hide their issues. adhd in young women of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis and trying to gain social support by participating in risky activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancy.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then direct you to a program that is most suitable for you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are lengthy and in some cases it can be difficult to be referred due to the lack of seriousness with how the issue is addressed. This could be because the GP does not know about adult ADHD, or because they believe that the person's problems are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD challenges. Some therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. The use of medication and diet changes can help to reduce the symptoms. For instance, an a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less pronounced. A diet that is high in sugars and junk food may cause these symptoms to worsen.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be beneficial for you, as they can be extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified teacher. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
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 do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult to diagnose them. This does not mean that they do not have symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are harder to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to tensions in relationships, especially with males.
Women who have inattentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties with school and work. They may have difficulty following directions in completing deadlines and keeping track of their commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout which can negatively impact their job and career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble staying focused, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They may also be susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have difficulties expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For instance mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. These groups are a great place to get advice about diagnosis routes 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, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults with ADHD to share their struggles, successes and aspirations. The meeting details can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. Contact them with any questions or want to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
adhd in adult women treatment can help reduce these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and reduce stress. It can also help manage excess energy, and increase focus and concentration. So, try to include a regular workout routine into your day.
You can exercise at home or, if you want to socialize, join a group or join a gym. Just remember, that while exercising can help alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't solve 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 do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout every week.