ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the signs aren't as evident. They may also be mistaken for other conditions and this can delay the referral.
It is important to explore and treat the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, females often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They may be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety.
ADHD is often seen in boys and men, so doctors might not be aware of the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as frequently. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely to get noticed by their teachers or parents. They might resort to strategies to cope, like hiding behind makeup or acting out to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It can also be difficult to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This could affect how they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait times for tests are frustrating and stressful for people who haven't been in a position to get the help they need. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to get an appointment.
The first step to get an assessment is to see your GP. You should tell your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will take this seriously and ask for a referral. You should also explain why you believe you have ADHD. You can download a support 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, in part because their symptoms, particularly when they reach adulthood, may not be as evident. They may develop compensatory strategies to conceal their issues, and these could be detrimental to their health. A few of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
GPs will take any report of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. women and adhd will then recommend a treatment that is best suited to you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for the services may be long and in some instances it is difficult to get referred because the problem is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes the person's difficulties are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD challenges. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. The use of medication and diet changes can help to reduce the symptoms. For instance, a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less pronounced. A diet rich in sugars and junk food may increase the severity of these symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP if mindfulness-based techniques, such as meditation, might be beneficial to you. They can be very useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods from a qualified instructor. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD might have less obvious symptoms than men. This is likely due to the fact that females don't display as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This can make it harder to diagnose them. But, that's not to say that they aren't suffering from any signs. In fact, they could have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognise. In addition, they can have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause difficult relationships, especially with males.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD may be more likely to have difficulties with work and school. They can have trouble following instructions and juggling deadlines and completing commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout which can have a negative effect on their work performance and career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and having a poor organization. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. In adhd in older women , they may be troubled by their emotions and are frequently thought of as a victim by other people. For example, mood changes can be misinterpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these issues, there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can be found online or in person. These groups are a great way to receive advice on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are several 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 share their challenges, successes and goals. The information on the meeting on their website and their Facebook page. You can reach them if you have any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and decreasing stress. It also helps manage excess energy, and improve focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you want to socialize, join a group or join a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not eliminate the symptoms. It is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.