ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often undiagnosed for ADHD as symptoms are less obvious in females. They may also be mistaken for other conditions, which can delay the referral.
Signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and treated as needed. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence may unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often struggle to concentrate or sit still. They might be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often observed in males and females and doctors may not be familiar with the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis since females often don't get referred as frequently. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than boys which makes them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They may resort to coping methods, such as hiding behind make-up or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are experiencing menopausal or perimenopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It could also be challenging for them to follow routines and manage their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait times for tests are frustrating and stressful for people who haven't been successful in getting the help they need. This can be particularly relevant for those on the NHS, as there is a small number of doctors that can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step to get an assessment is to see your GP. It is crucial to mention to your GP that you think you might have ADHD because they will need to take this seriously and ask for a referral. You should also explain why you believe you might be suffering from ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. Alternately, you can try to get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Speak with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly when they are adults aren't always evident. They may develop strategies to hide their problems which can be extremely damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution and criminal activity are all examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to experience an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases, teenage, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. Then they will refer you to the appropriate service for your needs. This is usually a community mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are lengthy and, in some instances it can be difficult to get referred because of the lack of seriousness which the problem is dealt with. simply click the following webpage could be due to the fact that the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD or they think that the person's challenges are due to other factors (like anxiety, depression or abuse of drugs) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred to a therapist, you must select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the disorder and will work with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and dietary changes can make a difference too. For example, eating a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less pronounced. A diet rich in sugars and junk food may cause these symptoms to worsen.
You should also inquire with your GP if mindfulness-based techniques like meditation could be beneficial for you. They can be extremely helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a trained teacher. The NHS service locator can help you locate the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than men. This is likely because females don't have as many hyperactive or impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, this is not to say that they don't have any symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women who have inattentive ADHD are more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have trouble following directions or deadlines, as well as keeping the track of their commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout which can have a negative effect on their job performance and their career.
The most frequent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily and having a poor organization. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have difficulties communicating their feelings, and are often not understood. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden rage or anger.
Despite these issues There are still plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best is a support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are accessible on the internet as well as in person. They are great ways to get guidance on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as tips on how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in 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 struggles, successes and aspirations. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. You can also contact them with any questions you may have in the event that you'd like to join a future event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes may cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings, and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and reduce stress. It can also help reduce excess energy and increase focus and improve attention. So, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
You can exercise at home or, if you want to be social join a club or join a gym. Exercise can alleviate certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate them. It should be combined with other strategies to manage symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout each week.