ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women often go not being diagnosed with ADHD since symptoms are more apparent for females. It is possible to mistake them for other disorders and this can delay the referral.
The signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD need to be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. This is because many symptoms are different for females. For instance, while males tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems like depression or anxiety.
ADHD is often observed in men and boys and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis as females often don't get referred as frequently. Girls can also hide symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely get noticed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and feelings.
Symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging to follow routines and manage their tasks. This can impact their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.
The waiting time for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration to those who aren't able to get the help they need. This is especially true for those on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step to get the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and will request a referral. You must also provide the reasons behind why you think you might have ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can assist in the speedy process. You can also try to get an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Speak with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD can be harder to diagnose than men, in part because the signs aren't as evident, especially when they are adults. These strategies can be harmful, because they might try to cover up their problems. This includes drinking heavily, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls with ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will ask you about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is the most appropriate for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be long In some instances, it can be difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes the person's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety or addiction to drugs) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is able to collaborate with your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a continuous process. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and diet changes can help. For example, eating a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. A diet high in sugars and junk food may exacerbate these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices like meditation could be beneficial for you as they can be very efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods from a qualified teacher. The NHS service locator can help you locate a provider near you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might have less obvious symptoms than men. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it harder to diagnose them. However, this does not mean they are not suffering from symptoms. In fact, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to detect. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to face problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty following instructions in completing deadlines and keeping track of commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their work performance and career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget 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 misinterpreted. For example mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are still many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is an intervention program specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are accessible on the internet and in person. They are great ways to get advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, and also how to manage your illness.
If adhd in adult women seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their struggles, goals and accomplishments. Home can find the meeting details on their website or Facebook page. You can also reach them with any questions if you'd like to attend a future event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD can face unique issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings, and anger.
Exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and reduce stress. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social setting, join a group class or gym. Exercise can help with certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not eliminate them. It should be incorporated with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout each week.