ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often undiagnosed for ADHD since symptoms are more apparent in females. They may also be mistaken for other conditions and this could delay referral.
Signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD need to be investigated and addressed as appropriate. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to recognize in adulthood, especially for women. This is because a lot symptoms are different in females. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, females often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, like anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often seen in boys and men So doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis as females often don't get referred as quickly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than boys and are less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They may resort to strategies for coping, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is because they can have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging for them to follow routines and manage their tasks. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait times for assessments are causing stress and frustration for those who aren't able to access the help they need. This is especially relevant for those who are who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step towards getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. It is essential to mention to your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD since they will have to take this seriously and ask for an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to aid in speeding up the process. You could also obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize than men, partly because the symptoms are not as obvious, especially when they are adults. They may develop compensatory strategies to cover up their problems which can be extremely damaging. adhd symptoms in women adults of them include drinking excessively smoking cannabis, or trying to create social connections by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in more sexually transmitted illnesses and teens, unplanned and early pregnancies.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is the most appropriate for you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long In some instances, it is difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or they think that the person's challenges are caused by other factors (like anxiety, depression or substance misuse) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended, it is important to choose a therapist who understands the disorder and is willing to work with your ADHD problems. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms and diet modifications can help. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. A diet that is high in sugars and junk food may cause these symptoms to worsen.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation might be useful for you, as they are extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you 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 typically notice their symptoms are less apparent than men. This is likely due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this is not to say that they aren't suffering from any symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to spot, like inattentive ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping on top of commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their job and career.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily and a lack of organization. They could also be susceptible to depression and self-doubt. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are often not understood by others. For adhd in adult women treatment , mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges, there are still many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. They are great ways to get guidance on diagnosis routes for both adults and children as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
There are many adult ADHD support groups in the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their struggles, successes and goals. You can find the meeting details on their website or Facebook page. You can reach them if you have any questions or want to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and reducing stress. It can also help control excess energy, increase focus and concentration. Try to include a regular exercise routine in your daily routine.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a more social environment take part in a group class or gym. Exercise can help with certain ADHD symptoms but it can't eliminate the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.