ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often not being diagnosed with ADHD as symptoms are less evident in females. They can also be misdiagnosed as other conditions, which can delay referral.
It is crucial to understand and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among females with ADHD. Adolescence, adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because many symptoms are different in females. For visit my web site , while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. This means that they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is also more often observed in men and boys, so doctors might not be familiar with the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as quickly. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than boys. This means they are less likely to get noticed by parents or teachers. They may resort to coping methods, such as wearing make-up or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It can also be difficult to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and frustration for those who are unable to get the help they need. This is especially relevant for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is seeing your GP. It is important to inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request a referral. It is also important to explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. Alternately, you can attempt to obtain an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood, may not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful, as they may try to cover up their issues. This includes drinking heavily, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activity are all examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls with ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then recommend a treatment that is most suitable for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for the services may be long, and in some cases it can be difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes the person's problems are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and diet modifications can help. For instance, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. A diet that is high in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation could be beneficial for you, as they can be very effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques from a qualified instructor. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than those with ADHD. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to get diagnosed. This does not mean that they don't have symptoms. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are harder to detect. In addition, they can struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in difficult relationships, especially with males.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping track of commitments. They can also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These issues can cause burnout, which could have a negative impact on their job performance and their career.
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily, and poor organisation. They may also be susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are often thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are offered online and in person. These groups are an excellent way to seek advice on diagnosis routes for both children and adults as well as how to manage your illness.
There are many adult ADHD support groups across the UK. For instance, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their struggles, successes and hopes. The details of the meeting on their website and Facebook page. You can also reach them with any questions if you'd like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes may trigger or exacerbate emotional problems like mood swings and irritation.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. Additionally, it can help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.
Exercise at home or, if you'd like to be social, join a group or gym. Be aware that although exercise can reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to solve them all on its own - it is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.