ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women often go undiagnosed for ADHD since symptoms are more obvious in females. They can also be misdiagnosed as other conditions, which can delay the referral.
It is crucial to understand and manage the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose, especially in women. Many of the symptoms are different for women. For example, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble being able to concentrate or sit still. This means that they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it is more common in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis because women aren't referred as quickly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping methods that include hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their emotions and behavior.
Symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging to keep track of routines and manage their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can be stressful and cause frustration to those who aren't able to receive the help they need. This is particularly true for those on the NHS since there are only a few doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining an assessment is to see your GP. It is crucial to tell your GP that you think you might have ADHD because they will need to be attentive and ask for a referral. You should also explain the reasons why you think you have ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You can also consider obtaining an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose than men, mainly because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly in adulthood. These strategies can be harmful, because they might try to cover up their problems. A few of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis and trying to create social connections by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in more sexually transmitted diseases and teens, unplanned and early pregnancy.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should ask you about your symptoms. They will then direct you to the best service for you - this usually is a mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long and, in some instances, it is difficult to get referred due to the lack of seriousness with how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD or they believe that the person's problems are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety, or abuse of substances) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms and dietary changes can also make a difference. A diet high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet high in sugars and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods, such as meditation, might be helpful for you. attention deficit disorder in women can be extremely helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques with a certified teacher. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD may have more subtle symptoms than males. This could be due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. This does not mean that they don't have symptoms. In fact, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognise. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained or dissolved relationships particularly with males.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at school and work. They may have trouble following instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping on top of their commitments. They can also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout, which can have a negative effect on their work performance and career.
Women with adult ADHD often have trouble keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and aren't organized. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have difficulties communicating their feelings, and are often not understood. For instance, mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges, there are still many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online as well as in person. These groups are a great place to receive advice on the diagnosis options for adults and children, and also how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their challenges, achievements and hopes. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or website. Contact them if you have any questions or wish to attend an forthcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD can face particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, releasing feel good hormones and decreasing stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase concentration and focus. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Exercise at home or, if your goal is to be social, join a group or join a gym. Be aware that although exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD, it won't solve them all on its own. It should be paired with other symptom-management strategies. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout every week.