ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are less evident. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other disorders which may delay referral.
It is important to explore and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among females with ADHD. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence can unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms are different in females. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, many women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
ADHD is more frequently observed in men and boys So doctors may not be familiar with the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, since females are not referred to doctors as quickly. Girls can also hide symptoms better than boys. This means they are less likely to be noticed by their teachers or parents. They may resort to coping methods, such as wearing make-up or acting out to hide their emotions and behavior.
adhd traits in women of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is because they be affected by hormonal changes that make them more prone to mood swings. They may be unable to stay on top of things and follow routines. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and anger for those who are unable to receive the help they need. This is particularly the case for those on the NHS since there are a small number of doctors that can carry out ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is seeing your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you might be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to aid in speeding up the process. You can also try to get an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose, in part because their symptoms, especially as they age might not be as obvious. These strategies can be harmful since they can try to conceal their problems. These include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have more sexually transmitted illnesses and teens who are unplanned and have early pregnancy.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then recommend a treatment that is the most appropriate for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long, and in some cases it can be difficult to be referrals because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be because the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD, or because they believe that the individual's issues are due to other factors (like depression, anxiety, or abuse of drugs) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is able to collaborate with your ADHD challenges. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms and dietary changes can also make a difference. For instance, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less noticeable. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques, such as meditation, might be beneficial to you. They are beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques with a certified teacher. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD typically notice their symptoms are less apparent than those with ADHD. This is probably 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 don't have any signs. add in women test might have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect, such as inattention ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in difficult relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping the track of commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can cause burnout, which can have a negative effect on their work performance and career.
Women with adult ADHD often have trouble staying focused, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. Additionally, they can have trouble with their emotions and are often misunderstood by others. For example mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties there are many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups can be found on the internet and in person. These groups are a great way to seek advice on diagnostic methods for adults and children, and also how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups in the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They offer a safe place for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their struggles, successes and hopes. You can find the information on the meeting on their website and Facebook page. Contact them if you have any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings and anger.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and decreasing stress. In addition, it helps control excess energy and improve concentration and focus. Try to include an exercise routine that you regularly do in your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a more social environment, join a group class or gym. Just remember, that while exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD however, it will not solve them all on its own. It should be paired with other strategies to manage symptoms. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.