ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other conditions and delay the referral.
It is important to explore and treat the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. Adolescence, pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify particularly in women. This is because a lot of the symptoms differ for females. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They could be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, like anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often seen in boys and men, so doctors might not be aware of the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't referred to doctors as often. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than males. This means they are less likely to be noticed by their teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies like wearing make-up or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviors.
Symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It may also be difficult to keep track of routines and keep track of their tasks. This can impact how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
Waiting times for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration to those who aren't able to receive the help they need. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can conduct ADHD tests. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You should tell your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and ask for a referral. It is also important to explain the reasons why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can aid in speeding up the process. mouse click the up coming document can also try to receive an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, especially when they are adults, may not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful because they might try to conceal their issues. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
signs and symptoms of adhd in women take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is most suitable for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for the services may be long In some instances, it can be difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP does not know about adult ADHD or they believe that the individual's issues are due to something else (like depression, anxiety or abuse of drugs) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to collaborate with your ADHD challenges. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. The use of medication and diet changes can help reduce your symptoms. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help to reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices, such as meditation, might be helpful for you. They can be extremely beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods from a qualified instructor. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD may have less obvious symptoms than men. This is likely due to the fact that females don't have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult to identify them. However, this isn't to say that they aren't suffering from any signs. In fact, they could be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms which 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 suffer from inattention ADHD may be more likely to struggle with school and work. They can have trouble following directions and juggling deadlines and completing commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout which can have a negative impact on their job and career.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, they can have trouble with their emotions and are often misunderstood by others. For example, mood changes can be misinterpreted as a sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties There are still plenty of resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is an online support group specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups can be found online and in person. These groups are an excellent way to get advice about diagnosis routes for 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 with ADHD who want to discuss their struggles, goals and successes. You can find the details of the meeting on their website or Facebook page. You can also contact them with 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 menopause. These hormonal changes may cause or exacerbate emotional issues like mood swings and anger.
Exercise can ease these symptoms, by release of feel-good hormones and reducing stress. It also helps reduce excess energy and increase focus and improve attention. So, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
You can exercise at home or, if you'd like to socialize join a club or gym. Exercise can help with some ADHD symptoms but it can't 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 per week.