ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women often go undiagnosed for ADHD because the symptoms are less evident in females. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other disorders which may delay referral.
It is important to explore and address the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. Many of the symptoms are different for women. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, females often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men So doctors may not be familiar with the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis because women aren't referred as swiftly. Girls can also hide symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely to get noticed by parents or teachers. They might use coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are experiencing menopausal or perimenopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It could also be challenging for them to follow routines and stay on top of their tasks. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait for assessments is frustrating and stressful for people who haven't been able to access the help they need. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS and have a limited number of doctors who carry out ADHD assessments and it can take years to get an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is essential to tell your GP that you believe you might have ADHD because they'll need to be attentive and ask for an appointment. You must also state the reasons why you think you be suffering from ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You could also get an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, particularly as they age might not be as evident. They might develop strategies to cover up their problems which can be extremely damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. rates of sexually transmitted diseases 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 direct you to a program that is the most appropriate for you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long and, in some instances it can be difficult to refer someone due to the lack of seriousness how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes the person's problems are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, you must select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the disorder and is willing to work with your ADHD problems. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a continuous process. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and dietary changes can also make a difference. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation might be useful for you because they are extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods from a qualified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD tend to have less visible symptoms than men. adhd women test 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 harder to diagnose them. But, that's not to say that they aren't suffering from any symptoms. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are harder to detect. Additionally, they may struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause ruptures or broken relationships particularly with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to face problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping on top of their commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout that can negatively impact their career and job performance.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and a lack of organization. They might also be prone to depression and self-doubt. They may also have difficulties in expressing their emotions and are often misinterpreted. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is an online support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. They are great ways to get advice on diagnosis routes for both adults and children 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 with ADHD to talk about their challenges, successes and aspirations. The details of the meeting on their website and their Facebook page. You can also contact them with any questions you may have if you'd like to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can reduce the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a more social environment, join a group class or a gym. Remember that although exercise can reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD, it won't cure them all by itself - it must be combined with other symptom-management strategies. Ideally, adhd in women test should aim to get 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.