ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are not as evident. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other conditions which may delay the diagnosis.
It is essential to investigate and manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify particularly in women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms are different for females. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
high functioning adhd in women may not be well-versed with ADHD because it's more prevalent in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis since females aren't often referred to as quickly. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than boys. This makes them less likely get noticed by their teachers or parents. They might use coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
Symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is because they experience hormonal fluctuations that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It can also be difficult to follow routines and stay on top of their tasks. This can affect how well 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, waiting times for assessments are creating stress and frustration for those who aren't in a position to get the help they need. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who can perform ADHD tests. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in obtaining the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is crucial to inform your GP that you think you might have ADHD since they will have to take it seriously and ask for a referral. You must also state why you believe you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can aid in speeding up the process. You can also try to get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, especially when they are adults aren't always evident. They might develop strategies to cover up their problems, and these can be very damaging. A few of these include drinking excessively, 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 are also more likely to be involved in an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases, teens who are unplanned and have early-stage pregnancy.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then direct you to a program that is the most appropriate for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be lengthy In some instances, it is difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP does not know about adult ADHD or they believe that the individual's issues are caused by other factors (like depression, anxiety, or substance misuse) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you select a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work alongside your ADHD issues. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. The use of medication and diet changes can help to reduce the symptoms. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and junk foods can increase these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques, such as meditation, might be helpful for you. They can be very helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified teacher. The NHS service locator can help you find a provider near you.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD may have more subtle symptoms than males. This is likely due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult to identify them. However, this isn't to suggest that they don't have any symptoms. In reality, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause ruptures or broken relationships particularly with men.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to face problems at school and at work. They may have trouble adhering to instructions in completing deadlines and keeping track of commitments. They may also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These challenges can lead to burnout which can negatively impact their career and job performance.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. They may also have trouble expressing their emotions, and are often not understood. For instance, changes in mood 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 a support program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups can be found online or in person. These groups are an excellent way to get advice about diagnostic methods for both children and adults as well how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. For example, 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 challenges, successes and hopes. The information about the meeting are available on their Facebook page or website. You can contact them if you have any questions or wish to attend an upcoming event.
4. undiagnosed adhd in women who suffer from ADHD can face particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reduce stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social setting take part in a group class or a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not solve them. It should be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.