ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the signs aren't as obvious. They may also be mistaken for other conditions and this can delay referral.
It is essential to investigate and address the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence may cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to identify in adulthood, particularly for women. The symptoms are different for women. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, females often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. This means that they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in males and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't seen by doctors as quickly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than men, making them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They may use coping techniques that include wearing make-up or acting out to hide their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is due to the fact that they experience hormonal fluctuations that make them more prone to mood swings. They might be unable to keep track of things and adhere to routines. This can affect their ability to manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait for assessments is frustrating and stressful for those who haven't been in a position to get the help they need. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS, as there is a small number of doctors that can carry out ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step to get the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will take this seriously and will request an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you have ADHD. adhd in women can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and help speed up the process. You can also attempt to obtain an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Speak with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify than men, mainly because the signs aren't so obvious, particularly in adulthood. They might develop strategies to cover up their problems and they can be very damaging. Some of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to create social connections 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, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors take reports of ADHD very seriously and will ask about your symptoms. Then, they will recommend the appropriate service for your needs. This usually is a mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are long and in some cases it can be difficult to refer someone due to the lack of seriousness with which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the person's issues are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD challenges. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a continuous process that can last for a lifetime. Treatment can ease some of your symptoms and dietary changes can also make a difference. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. A diet high 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 extremely beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods with a certified instructor. The NHS service locator can help you find an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD may have less obvious symptoms than men. This could be due to the fact that females don't have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult to diagnose them. This does not mean that they don't have symptoms. In reality, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to detect. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to difficult relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD may be more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have trouble adhering to instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping the track of their commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their job performance and their professional career.
Some of the most prevalent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, easily forgetting things and having a poor organization. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. They can also have difficulty in expressing their emotions and are often misinterpreted. For example mood swings could be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet as well as in person. These groups are an excellent way to seek advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well how to manage your condition.
There are many adult ADHD support groups across the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their challenges, goals, and accomplishments. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. You can contact them with any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD can face unique difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and reduce stress. It can also help to manage excess energy, and improve focus and attention. Make sure to incorporate an exercise routine that you regularly do in your daily routine.
You can exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize take part in a group or gym. Remember that although exercising can help alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to fix them completely on its own. It is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. The ideal goal is to complete 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.