ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the signs aren't as obvious. They can also be misdiagnosed as other disorders, which can delay referral.
It is essential to investigate and manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of adolescence and pregnancy can also cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. Many of the symptoms are different for women. For instance, while males tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble being able to concentrate or sit still. Because of this, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD, as it is more common in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as often. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than boys. This means they are less likely to be noticed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are going through menopause or perimenopause. This is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. They might be unable to keep track of their activities and stick to routines. This can affect their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait times for tests are causing stress and frustration for people who haven't been able to access the help they need. This is particularly relevant for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to make an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons why you think you have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and aid in speeding up the process. You can also try to get an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Speak to your doctor
Women with ADHD are often harder to recognize than men, mainly because the signs aren't as evident, especially as an adult. They might develop strategies to conceal their issues and they could be detrimental to their health. This includes drinking heavily, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to experience more sexually transmitted diseases and teens who are unplanned and have early pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. Then they will direct you to the best service for you - this typically a community mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be lengthy In some instances, it is difficult to get referred because the problem is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the person's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended to a therapist, it's important to choose a therapist who understands the disorder and is willing to work with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing add test for women requires a lifetime commitment. Medication can help to reduce certain symptoms, and diet modifications can also make a difference. For instance, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less pronounced. A diet high in sugars and junk food can cause these symptoms to worsen.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be beneficial to you because they can be very effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a trained teacher. The NHS service locator can help you locate a provider near you.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD often notice their symptoms are less apparent than men. This is likely due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this isn't to say that they don't have any signs. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to spot, like inattentive ADHD. In addition, they can have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained or dissolved relationships particularly with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have trouble following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping track of their commitments. They may also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their work performance and their career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They can also be prone 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 outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties There are still plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can be found online and in person. They are a great way to get advice on diagnosis routes for both adults and children as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. For example, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals and achievements. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page and website. You can also contact them with questions if you'd like to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, releasing feel good hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help control excess energy and improve focus and attention. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or a gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms, but it will not eliminate the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies to treat symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.