ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are not as evident. They may also be mistaken for other conditions, which can delay referral.
It is essential to investigate and treat the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females with ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly in women. Many of the symptoms are different for women. For example, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have difficulty being able to concentrate or sit still. Because of this, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it's more common in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, as females are not referred to doctors as often. Girls can also hide symptoms better than boys. This means they are less likely to get noticed by parents or teachers. They may resort to coping methods, such as wearing make-up or acting out to hide their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. They may also find it harder to stay on top of things and stick to routines. This can impact how they manage their home, work and other obligations.
The waiting time for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration for those who are unable to receive the help they need. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS since there are only a few doctors who are able to conduct ADHD tests. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining an assessment is to see your GP. It is crucial to mention to your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD since they will have to be attentive and request a referral. You must also state the reasons why you think you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to help speed up the process. You may also get an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood, may not be as obvious. They might develop strategies to cover up their problems, and these can be extremely damaging. Some of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to create social connections by engaging in risky activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to have more sexually transmitted diseases, teens, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is best suited to you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be lengthy, and in some cases it can be difficult to be referrals because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes the person's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to collaborate with your ADHD challenges. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. Treatment and dietary changes can help to reduce the symptoms. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. On the other hand, a diet high in junk food and sugar can worsen the symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be beneficial to you because they can be extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified instructor. The NHS service locator will help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to have less visible symptoms than men. This is probably due to the fact that females don't have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult to identify them. 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. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in difficult relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at work and school. They may have difficulty following instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping on top of their commitments. They can also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout which could have a negative impact on their work performance and career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and aren't organized. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. They can also have difficulty communicating their feelings, and are often not understood. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are available both online and in person. These groups are an excellent way to receive advice on diagnostic methods for children and adults, as well as how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their challenges, goals and achievements. The information about the meeting are available on their Facebook page and website. You can also reach them with any questions you may have if you'd like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and focus. Try to include a regular exercise routine in your day.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social setting, join a group class or gym. Be aware that although exercising can help alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to solve them all on its own - it is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. In add women , you'll want to complete 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.