ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as evident. They can also be mistaken for other conditions, which can delay the referral.
The signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females with ADHD need to be investigated and treated as needed. Adolescence, pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. The symptoms differ for women. While men are more active and impulsive, women often struggle to concentrate or sit still. They may be misdiagnosed with 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 as women aren't referred as swiftly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than boys, making them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might use strategies for coping, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out to cover up their actions and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. They might also have difficulty to keep track of their activities and adhere to routines. 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 assistance they require. This is particularly relevant for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD tests. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step to receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will take this seriously and will request a referral. You must also provide the reasons why you think you may have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and assist in the speedy process. You could also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to diagnose than men, partly because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly when they are adults. These strategies can be harmful as they may try to conceal their problems. A few of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to have a higher rate of sexually transmitted diseases, teens who are unplanned and have early-stage pregnancy.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will direct you to the most appropriate service for you - this typically a community mental health service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long and in some cases, it is difficult to get 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 substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended to a therapist, it's important to choose a therapist who understands the issue and is willing to tackle your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and diet changes can also make a difference. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. On the other side, a diet that is high in sugar and junk foods can increase these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques, such as meditation, could be beneficial for you. They can be extremely beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified teacher. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD tend to find their symptoms less obvious than those with ADHD. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. This does not mean that they are not suffering from symptoms. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to detect, such as inattention ADHD. In addition, they can have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. attention deficit disorder in women can cause tensions in relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD may be more likely to struggle at school and work. They may have difficulty following directions in completing deadlines and keeping the track of their commitments. They can be unable to accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout which can negatively impact their career and job performance.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They may also be prone self-doubt and depression. They can also have difficulty expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these challenges there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are accessible on the internet as well as in person. These groups are a great place to seek advice on diagnosis routes 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. For example, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to discuss their challenges, achievements and aspirations. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page or website. You can also contact them with questions in the event that you'd like to join an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD have unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues like mood swings and anger.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Try to include an exercise routine that you regularly do in your daily routine.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social setting take part in a group class or gym. Be aware that although exercising can help alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD however, it will not fix them completely by itself - it is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. The ideal goal is to get 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.