ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as obvious. They may also be mistaken for other conditions and this can delay the diagnosis.
Symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females with ADHD should be explored and addressed as appropriate. Periods of transition such as adolescence and pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly for women. This is because a lot of the symptoms differ in females. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty being able to concentrate or sit still. This means that they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often observed in males and females So doctors may not be aware of the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis because females often don't get referred as swiftly. 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 methods, such as hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopause or perimenopausal. It 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 affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait for assessments is creating stress and frustration for those who aren't successful in getting the assistance they require. This is particularly the case for those on the NHS, as there is a limited number of doctors who can carry out ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step towards getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will take this seriously and will request an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons behind why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You may also receive an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize than men, in part because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly as an adult. These strategies can be harmful as they may try to conceal their issues. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as 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 activities. Girls with ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will direct you to the most appropriate service for your needs. This usually is a mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for the services may be long and in some instances it can be difficult to be referred because the problem is not taken seriously enough. This could be because the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or think that the person's challenges are due to something else (like depression, anxiety or substance misuse) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred to a therapist, you must select a therapist that is aware of the condition, and is willing to tackle your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms, and diet modifications can make a difference too. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. A diet high in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be beneficial for you, as they can be very effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods by a trained instructor. The NHS service locator can help you find the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might have less obvious symptoms than men. This is likely due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult to identify them. This doesn't mean they are not suffering from symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. adhd in women signs may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty following directions and keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They can also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These challenges can lead to burnout which could have a negative impact on their work performance and their career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and a lack of organization. They may also be susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. In addition, they may struggle with their emotions and are frequently misunderstood by others. For example mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties There are still plenty of resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online as well as in person. These groups are an excellent way to get advice about diagnostic methods for children and adults, as well how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their struggles, goals and achievements. You can find the details of the meeting on their website and their Facebook page. You can reach them with any questions or wish to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD can face unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your day.
You can 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 eliminate the symptoms. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.