ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are not as obvious. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other conditions, which can delay referral.
It is important to explore and manage the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in women suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to recognize in adulthood, especially for women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. For instance, while males tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, many women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. This means that they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD because it is more prevalent in males and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis, as females aren't referred to doctors as quickly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than males which makes them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may use coping techniques, such as hiding behind make-up or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviour.
Symptoms of ADHD can get worse as women enter perimenopausal or menopause. This is because they can have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. They may also have difficulty to stay on top of things and stick to routines. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home 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 particularly relevant for those on the NHS, as there is a limited number of doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step towards getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is important to mention to your GP that you think you may have ADHD since they will have to be attentive and request an appointment. 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 and assist in the speedy process. Alternatively, you can attempt to obtain an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to diagnose than men, in part because the signs aren't as evident, especially as an adult. These strategies can be harmful, as they may try to conceal their problems. A few of these include excessive drinking smoking cannabis, or trying to create social connections by engaging in high-risk 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 pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. Then they will recommend the most appropriate service for you. This typically a community mental health clinic or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are lengthy and in some cases it can be difficult to get referred because of the lack of seriousness with which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD or they think that the person's challenges are caused by something else (like anxiety, depression or substance misuse) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to collaborate with your ADHD challenges. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly beneficial for people with ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms, and diet changes can also make a difference. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. On the other side, a diet that is high in junk food and sugar can worsen the symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation might be beneficial for you because they can be very effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified 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 often notice their symptoms are less apparent than males. 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 for them to be diagnosed. However, this does not mean they are not suffering from symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships particularly with males.
Women who have inattentive ADHD may be more likely to have difficulties with school and work. They can have trouble following directions, keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They can also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their work performance and their professional career.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily, and poor organisation. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are frequently not understood by others. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as sudden rage or anger.
Despite these challenges, there are still many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are offered both online as well as in person. They are great ways to get guidance on diagnosis routes for both adults and children as well as tips on how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking 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 environment for adults suffering from ADHD to share their challenges, successes and goals. adult adhd symptoms women on the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. You can also reach them with any questions in the event that you'd like to join the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD can face particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can ease the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help control excess energy and improve concentration and focus. So, try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your daily.
Exercise at home or, if you want to be social join a club or gym. Just remember, that while exercising can help alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to cure them all on its own - it is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.
