ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. They may also be mistaken for other conditions and this could delay the diagnosis.
It is crucial to understand and manage the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. Adolescence, adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to diagnose in adulthood, especially for women. The symptoms differ for women. For instance, while males tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems like anxiety or depression.
ADHD is more frequently observed in males and females and doctors may not be familiar with the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as frequently. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than males which makes them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may use coping techniques, such as concealing their face with makeup or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviour.
Symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women experience perimenopausal or menopausal. This is due to the fact that they be affected by hormonal changes that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. They might also have difficulty to keep track of their activities and adhere to routines. This could affect their ability to 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 a small number of doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in getting an assessment is to see your GP. It is essential to inform your GP that you think you may have ADHD since they will have to take it seriously and ask for an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you have ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You could also receive an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to women and adhd with ADHD can be harder to diagnose than men, mainly because the signs aren't as evident, especially when they are adults. They may develop strategies to hide their problems and they could be detrimental to their health. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution and criminal activity are all examples of high-risk activities. Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is best suited to you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long and in some instances it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be because the GP does not know about adult ADHD or they believe that the individual's issues are due to something else (like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is willing to work alongside your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. Treatment and dietary changes can help reduce your symptoms. For example, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less pronounced. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can cause these symptoms to worsen.
It is also advisable to ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be beneficial for you. They can be extremely beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques from a qualified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD typically find their symptoms less obvious than those with ADHD. This is probably due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult to diagnose them. But, that's not to say that they don't have any symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize, such as inattentive ADHD. In addition, they can have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained relationships, particularly with men.
Women who have inattentive ADHD may be more likely to struggle at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions in completing deadlines and keeping track of commitments. They may also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can lead to burnout which could have a negative impact on their work performance and their professional career.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. Additionally, they can have trouble with their emotions and are frequently thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as a sudden eruption of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. They are a great way to get guidance on diagnosis routes for adults and children, and also 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, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their struggles, goals and achievements. The meeting details on their website and Facebook page. You can reach them if you have any questions or want to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, by producing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help control excess energy and improve focus and attention. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social atmosphere you can join a class or gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate the symptoms. It should be incorporated with other strategies to manage symptoms. The ideal goal is to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout each week.