ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less obvious. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions and this could delay the diagnosis.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females with ADHD need to be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence may unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly for women. Many of the symptoms are different for women. While men are more active and impulsive, women typically have trouble concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often observed in males and females, so doctors might not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females often don't get referred as frequently. high functioning adhd in women may also conceal their symptoms better than men, making them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They may resort to strategies for coping, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and emotions.
Symptoms of ADHD can become more severe as women enter perimenopausal or menopause. This is due to the fact that they be affected by hormonal changes that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It may also be difficult to keep track of routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other obligations.
Waiting times for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration for those who are unable to get the help they need. This is particularly the case for those on the NHS since there are a small number of doctors that can carry out ADHD assessments. It can take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. It is essential to tell your GP that you think you might have ADHD because they'll need to be attentive and request a referral. It is also important to explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You can also try to receive an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, particularly as they age might not be as obvious. They may develop strategies to hide their problems and they can be extremely damaging. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as 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 rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is most suitable for you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for the services may be long and in some instances 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 caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist, it is important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the disorder and is willing to work with your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms, and dietary changes can help. For example, eating a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. On the other hand, a diet high in junk food and sugar can worsen the symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation could be beneficial to you as they are extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods by a trained teacher. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than those with ADHD. This could be due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. This doesn't mean they do not have symptoms. In reality, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize. In addition, they can have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to difficult relationships, especially with men.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD may be more likely to struggle at school and work. They may have difficulty following instructions in completing deadlines and keeping on top of their commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can cause burnout, which can have a negative effect on their performance at work and career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and aren't organized. They are also susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They may also have trouble in expressing their emotions and are often misinterpreted. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. These groups are a great way to receive advice on diagnostic methods for both children and adults as well as how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. For example, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their struggles, successes and hopes. The details of the meeting on their website or Facebook page. You can also contact 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 particular challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes may cause or exacerbate emotional issues like mood swings and anger.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and reduce stress. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Make sure to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your daily routine.
You can exercise at home or, if you want to socialize join a club or join a gym. Exercise can help with some ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate the symptoms. It is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.