ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the signs aren't as obvious. They can also be mistaken for other disorders and this could delay the referral.
Symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD need to be investigated and treated as needed. The transitional phases of adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. A lot of the symptoms are different for women. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They could be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD, as it is more common in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis as women aren't referred as swiftly. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely to get noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to strategies to cope, like concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and feelings.
Symptoms of ADHD are more severe as women enter perimenopausal or menopausal. This is because they experience hormonal fluctuations that cause mood swings. They may be unable to keep track of their activities and stick to routines. This can impact their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.
The waiting time for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration to those who aren't able to receive the help they need. This is particularly relevant for those on the NHS and have a limited number of doctors that can perform ADHD tests and it could take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining an assessment is to see your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will take this seriously and request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and help speed up the process. You could also obtain an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Speak with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to diagnose than men, mainly because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly when they are adults. These strategies can be harmful, because they might attempt to hide their problems. Some of them include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. rates of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will ask you about your symptoms. They will then direct you to the best service for you. This typically a community mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for the services may be long, and in some cases it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's difficulties are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended, it is important to choose a therapist who understands the disorder and is willing to tackle your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for those suffering from ADHD.
Controlling 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. For instance, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less pronounced. A diet high in sugars and junk food may increase the severity of these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be beneficial to you as they can be extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques from a qualified teacher. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might exhibit less obvious symptoms than men. 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 harder to identify them. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any signs. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize. In addition, they can have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at work and school. They may have difficulty following directions and keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They might also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These challenges can lead them to burnout which can negatively impact their career and job performance.
The most frequent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily, and poor organisation. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. They may also have trouble communicating their feelings, and are often misinterpreted. For instance, mood swings could be interpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties There are still plenty of options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are offered online as well as in person. These groups are a great place to receive advice on diagnosis routes for adults and children, and also how to manage your illness.
There are many adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. For example, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and successes. The meeting details on their website and Facebook page. Contact them with any questions or wish to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopause. attention deficit disorder in women can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, release of feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. Plus, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine.
You can exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize join a club or gym. Exercise can help with some ADHD symptoms but it can't cure them. It is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. The ideal goal is to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout each week.