ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go undiagnosed for ADHD since symptoms are more obvious in females. They may also be mistaken for other conditions, which could delay the diagnosis.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be explored and addressed as appropriate. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly for women. This is because a lot symptoms are different in females. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. This means that they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often seen in boys and men, so doctors might not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't seen by doctors as quickly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than males which makes them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They may resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out to cover up their actions and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It can also be difficult to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and anger to those who aren't able to receive the help they require. This is especially relevant for those on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in obtaining an assessment is to see your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request a referral. You must also state why you believe you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to assist in the speedy process. You may also receive an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood might not be as evident. They may develop strategies to cover up their problems, and these can be very damaging. A few of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to gain social support by participating in risky activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution 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 an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. They will then recommend a treatment that is best suited to you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long and in some cases it can be difficult to get referred because of the lack of seriousness how the issue is addressed. This could be because the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD, or because they believe that the person's problems are caused by other factors (like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist that is aware of the disorder and is willing to tackle your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing adhd in young women requires a lifetime commitment. Treatment can ease some of your symptoms and diet modifications can help. For instance, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less noticeable. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and junk food can increase these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be beneficial for you. They can be extremely useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified teacher. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD may have less apparent symptoms than men. This is probably because females don't have as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. This does not mean that they don't have symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are harder to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in broken relationships or even breakups particularly with men.
Women who have inattentive ADHD might be more likely to have difficulties with work and school. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions in completing deadlines and keeping on top of their commitments. They might also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout that could negatively impact their job and career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and having a poor organization. They may also be susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They may also have trouble in expressing their emotions and are often misunderstood. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden rage or anger.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are offered on the internet as well as in person. They are an excellent way to receive information on the diagnosis process for both adults and children as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD to discuss their challenges, achievements and goals. You can find the meeting details on their website or Facebook page. You can also reach them with any questions in the event that you'd like to join the next event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD can face unique issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can ease the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Make sure to incorporate an exercise routine that you regularly do in your day.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social atmosphere take part in a group class or a gym. Exercise can ease some ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate them. It should be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.