ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less 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 explored and treated in the appropriate way. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to diagnose in adulthood, especially for women. This is because many of the symptoms are different for females. For example, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty in concentrating or staying still. They may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is often seen in boys and men and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, as females are not referred to doctors as frequently. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely to get noticed by parents or teachers. They might use strategies to cope, like hiding behind makeup or acting out to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. It is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. It may also be difficult to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait times for assessments are frustrating and stressful for those who haven't been successful in getting the assistance they require. This can be particularly true for those who are on the NHS, as there is a small number of doctors who can carry out ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step towards getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is essential to inform your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD because they'll need to take it seriously and request an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons you believe you may have ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to help speed up the process. You can also try to obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Speak to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, especially as they age, may not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful as they may try to cover up their problems. These include drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build support for their friends through high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in a higher rate of sexually transmitted diseases, teens who are unplanned and have early pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. Then they will recommend the appropriate service for you - this is usually a community mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are long and, in some instances, it is difficult to be referred due to the lack of seriousness how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes the person's difficulties are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety or addiction to drugs) instead of ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist that is aware of the issue and will work with your ADHD problems. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is especially helpful for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. For instance, a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less noticeable. A diet that is high in sugars and junk foods can cause these symptoms to worsen.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation might be useful for you because they are extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified instructor. iampsychiatry can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD typically find their symptoms less obvious than men. This is likely due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. This does not mean that they do not have symptoms. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to detect. Additionally, they may have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to broken relationships or even breakups, especially with men.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping on top of commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout, which could have a negative impact on their performance at work and their professional career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily, and poor organisation. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are frequently thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, changes in mood could be interpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can be found online or in person. They are a great way to get guidance on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals and successes. The information about the meeting are available on their Facebook page or website. You can contact them with any questions or want to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD have particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and reduce stress. It also helps manage excess energy, and increase focus and improve attention. Try to include regular exercise into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social setting, join a group class or a gym. Exercise can ease some ADHD symptoms but it can't cure the symptoms. It should be incorporated with other strategies to treat symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.