ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are not as evident. They can also be mistaken for other conditions and this could delay the referral.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be investigated and addressed as appropriate. The transitional phases of adolescence and pregnancy can also unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because a lot of the symptoms are different for females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. This means that they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. treatment for adhd in women can lead to delays in diagnosis since women aren't referred as swiftly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than boys and are less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies, such as wearing make-up or acting out to disguise their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging for them to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to get the help they require. This is particularly relevant for those on the NHS, as there is a small number of doctors that can carry out ADHD tests and it could take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is seeing your GP. It is crucial to tell your GP that you believe you might have ADHD because they'll need to take it seriously and ask for an appointment. You must also state the reasons why you think you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You could also get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to recognize than men, mainly because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly as an adult. adhd in adult women test may develop strategies to cover up their problems and they could be detrimental to their health. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls with ADHD can also have increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
The GPs will take any reports of ADHD very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is best suited to you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for the services may be long In some instances, it is difficult to get referred because the problem isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP does not know about adult ADHD or believe that the individual's issues are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety, or abuse of substances) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, you must select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the issue and will work with your ADHD problems. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. adhd in adult women test and dietary changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation could be useful for you, as they are extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques from a qualified teacher. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might exhibit less obvious symptoms than men. 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 get diagnosed. This doesn't mean they don't have symptoms. In fact, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause ruptures or broken relationships particularly with men.
Women who have inattentive ADHD may be more likely to have difficulties with work and school. They may have difficulty following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping track of commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout which can have a negative effect on their work performance and their career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and a lack of organization. They are also susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have trouble with their emotions and are frequently not understood by others. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these difficulties, there are still many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. They are an excellent way to receive advice on diagnosis routes for both adults and children as well as how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their challenges, goals and accomplishments. You can find the information on the meeting on their website and Facebook page. You can also reach them with questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face particular challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms, such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, producing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It also helps reduce excess energy and increase focus and concentration. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social atmosphere take part in a group class or gym. Exercise can help with certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not eliminate the symptoms. It should be incorporated with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout every week.