ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. They are also often misdiagnosed as other disorders which may delay the diagnosis.
It is important to explore and manage the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to identify in adulthood, especially for women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. For example, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. This means that they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems like anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD because it's more prevalent in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis as women aren't referred as frequently. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than boys. This makes them less likely get noticed by their teachers or parents. They may use coping techniques that include hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are experiencing menopausal or perimenopausal. This is because they have hormonal fluctuations that can cause mood swings. They may also find it harder to keep track of things and stick to routines. This can impact how they manage their work, home and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait for assessments is frustrating and stressful for people who haven't been able to access the assistance they require. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can carry out ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining an assessment is to see your GP. It is essential to mention to your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD since they will have to be attentive and request an appointment. You must also provide the reasons behind why you think you may have ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You can also try to get an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, particularly when they reach adulthood aren't always obvious. They may develop compensatory strategies to hide their problems which can be extremely damaging. These include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends through high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases, teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD very seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is the most appropriate for you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
adhd in women waiting times for these services can be lengthy, and in some cases it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be because the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD, or because they think that the person's challenges are caused by other factors (like depression, anxiety or substance misuse) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the issue and is willing to tackle your ADHD problems. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Treatment and dietary changes can help to reduce the symptoms. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits 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 to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be beneficial for you because they can be very effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified instructor. The NHS service locator can help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD may have more subtle symptoms than males. This could be due to the fact that females don't have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to get diagnosed. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any symptoms. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are harder to detect, such as inattention ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to difficult relationships, especially with men.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions in completing deadlines and keeping on top of commitments. They can also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These challenges can lead them to burnout which could negatively impact their career and job performance.
The most frequent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily and having a poor organization. They are also 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 seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are still many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. They are a great way to get information on the diagnosis process for adults and children, as well as how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. For example, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults with ADHD to share their challenges, successes and aspirations. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page or on their website. You can contact them if you have any questions or want to attend an scheduled event.
4. mouse click the following article suffering from ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms, such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce the symptoms by release of feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a more social environment you can join a class or a gym. Be aware that although exercise can reduce certain symptoms of ADHD however, it will not fix them completely on its own - it must be combined with other symptom-management strategies. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.