ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the signs aren't as evident. They are also often misdiagnosed as other conditions, which can delay referral.
It is essential to investigate and treat the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to diagnose in adulthood, especially for women. This is because many of the symptoms differ for females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, females often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They could be misdiagnosed as having mental health issues, like anxiety or depression.
ADHD is also more often observed in men and boys and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis as women aren't referred as swiftly. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than boys. This means they are less likely to get noticed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It can also be difficult to keep track of routines and stay on top of their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Waiting times for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they require. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS and have a small number of doctors that can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will take this seriously and ask for an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can aid in speeding up the process. You could also get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly when they are adults, may not be as obvious. These strategies can be harmful since they can attempt to hide their problems. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls with ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors take reports of ADHD very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to the best service for you - this typically a community mental health clinic or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long 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 not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the person's difficulties are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety or addiction to drugs) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you select a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD challenges. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. For instance, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less apparent. A diet high in sugars and junk food can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP if mindfulness-based techniques like meditation might be beneficial to you. They can be very useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. adhd symptoms women can be taught by a qualified teacher. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD tend to find their symptoms less obvious than men. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult to diagnose them. But, that's not to say that they aren't suffering from any symptoms. In fact, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in difficult relationships, especially with males.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD are more likely to struggle at school and work. They can have trouble following instructions and juggling deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and their professional career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble paying attention, forgetting easily and are not organized. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. In addition, they may struggle with their emotions and are frequently thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best options is a support program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. They are a great way to get guidance on diagnosis routes for both adults and children as well as tips on how to manage your condition.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups across the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and achievements. The information about the meeting are available on their Facebook page and website. You can reach them if you have any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD may face particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms like mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and decreasing stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase concentration and focus. Make sure to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your daily routine.
Exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize join a club or gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not solve them. It should be incorporated with other strategies for managing symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.