ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the signs aren't as evident. They may also be mistaken for other conditions and this could delay the referral.
It is crucial to understand and manage the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders among females with ADHD. The transitional phases of adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify particularly in women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. While men are more active and impulsive, females often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in men and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis as women aren't referred as frequently. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than males. This means they are less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping methods that include 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 menopause or perimenopause. This is due to the fact that they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. They might be unable to stay on top of things and stick to routines. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for tests are causing stress and frustration for people who haven't been in a position to get the help they need. This is particularly the case for those on the NHS since there are a limited number of doctors that can perform ADHD tests and it could take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step to get the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to mention to your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD because they will need to take it seriously and request an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons why you think you might have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can aid in speeding up the process. Alternately, you can attempt to obtain an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to identify due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood, may not be as obvious. They may develop strategies to hide their problems, and these can be very damaging. These include drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to experience a higher rate of sexually transmitted diseases, teens who are unplanned and have early pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to the best service for you. This is usually a community mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long In some instances, it can be difficult to get diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or think that the person's challenges are due to other factors (like depression, anxiety, or abuse of drugs) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, it's important to choose a therapist who understands the condition, and is willing to work with your ADHD problems. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Medication and dietary changes may help to reduce the symptoms. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help to reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet high in sugars and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation could be useful for you, as they can be extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified instructor. The NHS service locator can help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than males. This could be 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. This doesn't mean they are not suffering from symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize, such as inattentive ADHD. Additionally, they may have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD may be more likely to struggle at school and work. They can have trouble following directions and keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout, which could negatively impact their career and job performance.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily and a lack of organization. They may also be susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, they can have trouble with their emotions and are often thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is an online support group specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are accessible on the internet and in person. These groups are a great place to get advice about diagnosis routes for both children and adults as well how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. adhd symptoms women , for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and accomplishments. The meeting details can be found on their Facebook page and website. You can also reach them with questions if you'd like to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms like mood fluctuations and irritability.
adhd test for women can ease these symptoms, by release of feel-good hormones and reducing stress. It can also help manage excess energy, and improve focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social atmosphere take part in a group class or gym. Exercise can help with some ADHD symptoms, but it will not eliminate them. It should be combined with other strategies to treat symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.