ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as obvious. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other conditions which may delay the diagnosis.
Signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and exacerbate ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to recognize in adulthood, particularly for women. A lot of the symptoms are different for women. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, females often struggle to concentrate or sit still. They could be misdiagnosed as having mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is often observed in men and boys So doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis as women aren't referred as quickly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than males which makes them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopause or perimenopause. This is because they have hormonal fluctuations that can cause mood swings. It may also be difficult to keep track of routines and keep track of their tasks. This can impact their ability to manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they require. This is especially applicable to those on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can conduct ADHD tests. It can take years to make an appointment.
The first step towards receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you might have ADHD because they'll need to take it seriously and ask for an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can assist in the speedy process. You could also receive an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD can be harder to recognize than men, partly because the signs aren't as evident, especially as an adult. They may develop compensatory strategies to cover up their problems which can be very damaging. A few of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to create social connections by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls with ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
The GPs will take any reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is the most appropriate for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are long and in some cases, it is difficult to get referred because of the lack of seriousness which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's issues are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs) instead of ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended to a therapist, it's important to choose a therapist who understands the disorder and is willing to work with your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms, and diet modifications can help. For instance, an a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less noticeable. A diet rich in sugars and junk food may exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP if mindfulness-based techniques, such as meditation, might be beneficial to you. They can be very helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a trained instructor. The NHS service locator can help you find an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD typically notice their symptoms are less apparent than males. This is probably because females don't exhibit as many hyperactive or impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. This doesn't mean they don't have symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. In addition, they can struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty following directions, keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. adhd in women checklist can cause burnout, which can have a negative effect on their performance at work and their professional career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and aren't organized. They can also be prone to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They may also struggle with their emotions and are often not understood by others. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are offered both online and in person. These groups are a great way to seek advice on diagnostic methods for adults and children, as well as how to manage your condition.
There are a variety of adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their struggles, goals and achievements. You can find the information on the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. You can contact them with any questions or wish to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD can face particular challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, release of feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. Plus, it can help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. So, try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social atmosphere you can join a class or a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot solve the symptoms. It is best to combine it with other strategies to treat symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.