ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as obvious. It is possible to mistake them for other disorders and this can delay the referral.
Signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence may cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to recognize in adulthood, especially for women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. While men are more active and impulsive, females often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They may be misdiagnosed as having mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis since females often don't get referred as quickly. Girls can also hide symptoms better than males. This means they are less likely to be noticed by parents or teachers. They might use strategies for coping, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopause or perimenopause. This is because they can be affected by hormonal changes that cause mood swings. It can also be difficult for them to follow routines and manage their tasks. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Waiting times for assessments can cause stress and anger to those who aren't able to receive the help they require. This is particularly true for those on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD tests. It can take a long time to make an appointment.
The first step in obtaining an assessment is to see your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and request an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You could also get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to diagnose than men, partly because the symptoms are not as evident, especially in adulthood. These strategies can be harmful because they might attempt to hide their problems. This includes drinking heavily, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends through high risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal 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. They will then recommend a treatment 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 lengthy and, in some instances, it is difficult to be referred because of the lack of seriousness which the problem is dealt with. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes the person's issues are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) rather than ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred, it is important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the condition, and will work with your ADHD issues. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people with ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. adhd in adult women symptoms can help to reduce some of your symptoms and diet changes can also make a difference. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. On the other side, a diet that is high in sugar and junk food can worsen the symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation could be beneficial to you as they can be extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques with a certified teacher. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD may have more subtle symptoms than males. 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 for them to get diagnosed. However, this does not mean they are not suffering from symptoms. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to spot, like inattention ADHD. Additionally, they may have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause ruptures or broken relationships particularly with men.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at work and school. They can have trouble following directions and keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout which could negatively impact their career and job performance.
The most frequent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, easily forgetting things, and poor organisation. They may also be susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are frequently not understood by others. For example mood swings could be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are still many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can be found online and in person. These groups are a great place to receive 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 in the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD to discuss their challenges, successes and hopes. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can reach them if you have any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes may cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings, and anger.
Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help control excess energy and improve focus and attention. Try to include a regular exercise routine in your day.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or gym. Exercise can help with some ADHD symptoms however it cannot solve the symptoms. adhd in adult women symptoms should be combined with other strategies to manage symptoms. The ideal goal is to complete 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.