ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as obvious. They are also often misdiagnosed as other disorders which may delay the diagnosis.
It is essential to investigate and treat the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females with ADHD. The transitional phases of adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because a lot of the symptoms differ in females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is also more often seen in boys and men and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females aren't often referred to as frequently. Girls can also hide symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely get noticed by parents or teachers. They may resort to coping methods like wearing make-up or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopause or perimenopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. They might also have difficulty to stay on top of things and follow routines. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and anger to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they need. This is particularly applicable to those on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. add symptoms in adult women can take a long time to make an appointment.
The first step to receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is crucial to inform your GP that you believe you may have ADHD because they will need to be attentive and ask for a referral. You must also provide the reasons you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. Alternately, you can attempt to obtain an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD can be harder to diagnose than men, mainly because the signs aren't so obvious, particularly in adulthood. These strategies can be harmful because they might try to cover up their issues. This includes drinking heavily, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). simply click the following page with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will ask you about your symptoms. They will then recommend a treatment that is most suitable for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are lengthy and, in some instances, it is difficult to get referred due to the lack of seriousness with how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP does not know about adult ADHD or believe that the individual's issues are caused by other factors (like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is willing to work alongside your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication and diet changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help to reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other side, a diet that is high in junk food and sugar can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP whether mindfulness-based methods, such as meditation, could be beneficial for you. They can be extremely helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques from a qualified teacher. The NHS service locator can help you find an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD often notice their symptoms are less apparent than those with ADHD. This could be due to the fact that females don't display as many hyperactive or impulsive symptoms. This can make it harder to diagnose them. However, this does not mean they don't have symptoms. In fact, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognise. Additionally, they may have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained or dissolved relationships particularly with males.
Women who have inattentive ADHD might be more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions and keeping track of deadlines and completing commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout, which could negatively impact their career and job performance.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused, forgetting easily and are not organized. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. They may also have difficulties in expressing their emotions and are often misunderstood. For instance, mood swings could be interpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these issues There are still plenty of resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available online or in person. These groups are a great place to get advice about diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their struggles, successes and hopes. The meeting details on their website or Facebook page. You can also contact them with questions in the event that you'd like to join a future event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues like mood swings and anger.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help to reduce excess energy and increase focus and concentration. So, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a more social environment take part in a group class or a gym. Be aware that although exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD however, it will not fix them completely on its own. It should be paired with other symptom-management strategies. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.