ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less obvious. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions and this could delay referral.
Signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. The transitional phases of adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and exacerbate ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. This is because a lot of the symptoms differ in females. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. They may be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.
add adult women Iam Psychiatry may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in males and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis, since females aren't seen by doctors as often. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely to be noticed by their teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It can also be difficult to keep track of routines and stay on top of their tasks. This can impact their ability to 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, long wait times for tests are frustrating and stressful for people who haven't been successful in getting the help they need. This is particularly true for those on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD tests. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. It is essential to tell your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD because they'll need to take this seriously and request an appointment. You must also state why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to assist in the speedy process. You may also get an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify than men, mainly because the symptoms are not as obvious, especially when they are adults. These strategies can be harmful because they might try to cover up their issues. A few of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to gain social support by participating in risky activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
The GPs will take any reports of ADHD very seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program 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 and in some instances it can be difficult to be diagnosed because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be because the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD, or because they think that the person's challenges are caused by something else (like anxiety, depression or substance misuse) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist, it is important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the disorder and is willing to work with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a continuous process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms, and diet modifications can also make a difference. For example, eating an a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and junk foods can worsen the symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be useful for you because they can be very efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a trained instructor. The NHS service locator can help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might have less obvious symptoms than men. This could be 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 don't have symptoms. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are harder to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. In addition, they could have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause tensions in relationships, especially with males.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at work and school. They may have difficulty following directions in completing deadlines and keeping track of their commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout, which could negatively impact their career and job performance.
Women with adult ADHD often have trouble keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and aren't organized. They could also be susceptible to depression and self-doubt. They can also have difficulty communicating their feelings, and are often misinterpreted. For instance mood swings could be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges, there are still many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. They are a great way to get advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. For instance, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their challenges, goals, and successes. The details of the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. Contact them with any questions or want to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD may face particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, releasing feel good hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help control excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Try to include regular exercise into your day.
You can exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize, join a group or join a gym. Just remember, that while exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to solve them all by itself - it must be combined with other strategies to manage symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.