ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are less evident. They can also be misdiagnosed as other disorders and delay referral.
It is essential to investigate and manage the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females with ADHD. Periods of transition such as adolescence and pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly in women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. While men are more active and impulsive, women often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They may be misdiagnosed as having mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often observed in men and boys, so doctors might not be knowledgeable about the condition. adhd symptoms in adult women can lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't seen by doctors as frequently. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than men and are less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may use coping techniques, such as hiding behind make-up or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviors.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is due to the fact that they have hormonal fluctuations that can cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. They might also find it harder to keep track of their activities and stick to routines. This can affect their ability to manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and frustration for those who are unable to receive the assistance they need. This is particularly the case for those on the NHS since there are a limited number of doctors that can perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. It is important to tell your GP that you think you might have ADHD because they'll need to take it seriously and request an appointment. You should also explain why you believe you have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to assist in the speedy process. Alternatively, you can attempt to obtain an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Speak to your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, particularly when they reach adulthood might not be as evident. They may develop strategies to cover up their problems which could be detrimental to their health. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build support for their friends through high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will refer you to the most appropriate service for you. This usually is a mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for the services may be long, and in some cases it can be difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or they believe that the individual's issues are caused by other factors (like depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist that is aware of the disorder and is willing to tackle your ADHD problems. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. For example, eating an a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less noticeable. A diet that is high in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation might be beneficial for you because they are extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods by a trained teacher. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than males. This is probably due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, this is not to say that they don't have any signs. In fact, they could have inattention ADHD symptoms that are harder to detect. In addition, they can struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to broken relationships or even breakups particularly with males.
Women with inattention ADHD might be more likely to have difficulties with work and school. They can have trouble following instructions and keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout which could have a negative impact on their job performance and career.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily, and poor organisation. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. They can also have difficulty expressing their emotions, and are often misinterpreted. For instance mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges, there are still many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online as well as in person. They are an excellent way to receive guidance on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as how to manage your condition.
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 environment for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their challenges, goals, and successes. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page and website. You can reach them if you have any questions or want to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help to reduce excess energy and increase focus and improve attention. Try to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social atmosphere you can join a class or a gym. Be aware that although exercising can help alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD however, it will not fix them completely on its own - it must be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week.