ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as evident. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions, which can delay referral.
It is crucial to understand and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females with ADHD. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. iampsychiatry are different for women. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They might be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety.
ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men So doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis as females often don't get referred as frequently. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely be noticed by teachers or parents. They might use coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopause or perimenopausal. This is because they can experience hormonal fluctuations that cause mood swings. It may also be difficult for them 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 soared thanks to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for assessments are creating stress and frustration for those who haven't been able to access the help they need. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS since there are a small number of doctors that can perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining an assessment is to see your GP. You should tell your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and will request a referral. You should also explain why you believe you might be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and assist in the speedy process. You may also receive an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly as they age aren't always obvious. They might develop strategies to hide their problems which could be detrimental to their health. These include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends through high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancy.
GPs will take any report of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then refer you to a service that is most suitable for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long and in some cases, it is difficult to be referred because of the lack of seriousness how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD or they believe that the individual's issues are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety, or substance misuse) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended to a therapist, you must select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the issue and will work with your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms, and diet changes can also make a difference. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help to reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in junk food and sugar can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP if mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be helpful for you. They are helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods with a certified teacher. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might exhibit more subtle symptoms than males. This is likely because females don't exhibit as many hyperactive or impulsive symptoms. This can make it harder to identify them. However, this does not mean they are not suffering from symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. Additionally, they may have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause difficult relationships, especially with males.
Women who have inattentive ADHD might be more likely to have difficulties with work and school. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions, keeping track of deadlines and completing commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout which can have a negative impact on their job and career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily and are not organized. They could also be susceptible to depression and self-doubt. They may also have trouble in expressing their emotions and are often misinterpreted. For instance mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is an online support group specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are accessible both online as well as in person. These groups are a great way to seek advice on diagnostic methods for children and adults, and also how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to share their challenges, successes and goals. The details of the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. Contact them if you have any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD have unique difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, producing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Try to include regular exercise into your daily routine.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a more social environment you can join a class or a gym. Just remember, that while exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD, it won't solve them all on its own - it should be paired with other strategies to manage symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.