ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are not as obvious. They are also often misdiagnosed as other conditions, which can delay referral.
Signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and treated as needed. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and exacerbate ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly for women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble being able to concentrate or sit still. This means that they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD, as it is more prevalent in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't seen by doctors as quickly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than males and are less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They might use strategies to cope, like concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to disguise their behaviour and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopausal changes or perimenopausal. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can make them more susceptible to mood swings. They might also have difficulty to stay on top of things and follow routines. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait times for tests are causing stress and frustration for those who aren't in a position to get the help they need. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS since there are a small number of doctors who perform ADHD assessments and it can take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is seeing your GP. add test for women is important to inform your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD since they will have to take it seriously and request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons behind why you think 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. You can also try to receive an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood, may not be as evident. They might develop strategies to cover up their problems and they could be detrimental to their health. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activity are all examples of high-risk actions. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will refer you to the best service for you - this is usually a community mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for the services may be long In some instances, it can be difficult to be diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD, or because they believe that the individual's issues are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety or substance misuse) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended to a therapist, you must select a therapist that is aware of the issue and will work with your ADHD issues. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. Treatment and dietary changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in sugar and junk food can increase these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices like meditation could be beneficial for you because they can be extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified teacher. The NHS service locator will help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD may have more subtle symptoms than males. This is probably because females don't exhibit as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. This doesn't mean they do not have symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect, such as inattention ADHD. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause tensions in relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They can have trouble adhering to instructions and keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their job performance and career.
The most frequent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily, and poor organisation. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. They may also have trouble in 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 still plenty of options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online or in person. They are great ways to get advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their challenges, achievements and goals. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page or website. You can contact them with any questions or wish to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes may trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings, and irritation.
Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and focus. Try to incorporate regular exercise into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social setting you can join a class or gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms but it can't cure the symptoms. It should be incorporated with other strategies to manage symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.