ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often not being diagnosed with ADHD since symptoms are more apparent for females. They are also often misdiagnosed as other disorders which may delay the referral.
It is essential to investigate and treat the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence can cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to identify in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because a lot symptoms are different for females. While men are more active and impulsive, women typically have trouble concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD, as it is more prevalent in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, as females are not referred to doctors as quickly. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than boys. This makes them less likely get noticed by parents or teachers. They might resort to strategies for coping, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
Symptoms of ADHD are more severe as women enter perimenopausal or menopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. adhd in women treatment could also be challenging to keep track of routines and stay on top of their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to receive the help they need. This is particularly true for those on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step towards getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and ask for an appointment. You should also explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can assist in the speedy process. You could also obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly when they reach adulthood aren't always obvious. high functioning adhd in women can be harmful since they can try to conceal their problems. A few of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancy.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will ask you about your symptoms. 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.
Waiting times for these services can be lengthy In some instances, it is difficult to get referred because the problem isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD, or because they think that the person's challenges are due to something else (like depression, anxiety or substance misuse) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist who has 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 those suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. Medication and dietary changes may aid in reducing your symptoms. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help to reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. A diet rich in sugars and junk foods can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation could be beneficial to you, as they can be extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD often have less visible symptoms than males. This could be due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult to diagnose them. However, this is not to suggest that they don't have any symptoms. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to recognize, such as inattentive ADHD. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They may have trouble following instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping on top of commitments. They may also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can lead them to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their career and job performance.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily and are not organized. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. They may also have trouble in expressing their emotions and are often misunderstood. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are accessible on the internet and in person. These groups are a great place to seek advice on the diagnosis options for children and adults, as well how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and accomplishments. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page and website. You can reach them with any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings, and irritability.
Exercise can ease these symptoms, producing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. It also helps manage excess energy, and increase focus and improve attention. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a more social environment, join a group class or a gym. Exercise can ease some ADHD symptoms, but it will not cure them. It should be combined with other strategies to manage symptoms. The ideal goal is to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout each week.