ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as obvious. They can also be mistaken for other disorders and this could delay referral.
It is crucial to understand and treat the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among females with ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify, especially in women. This is due to the fact that many symptoms are different in females. For example, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They might be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, like anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because women aren't referred as frequently. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men and are less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They might use strategies to cope, like concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopausal. This is because they can be affected by hormonal changes that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It may also be difficult to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for assessments are frustrating and stressful for people who haven't been in a position to get the assistance they require. This is particularly true for those on the NHS since there are only a few doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to make 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 have ADHD since they will have to take this seriously and ask for an appointment. You should also explain the reasons why you think you have ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. Alternatively, you can try to get an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD can be harder to identify than men, in part because the signs aren't as obvious, especially in adulthood. They might develop strategies to cover up their problems which could be detrimental to their health. Some of them include drinking excessively smoking cannabis, or trying to build social support by engaging in risky activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activity are all examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then refer you to a service that is the most appropriate for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are lengthy and in some cases, 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 unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's difficulties are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) rather than ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended, it is important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the disorder and is willing to tackle your ADHD issues. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people with ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. Treatment and dietary changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. For instance, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less apparent. A diet that is high in sugars and junk foods can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices like meditation might be helpful for you. They can be very beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods from a qualified teacher. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD may have less obvious symptoms than men. This is probably because females don't exhibit as many hyperactive or impulsive symptoms. This can make it harder for them to be diagnosed. However, this does not mean they don't have symptoms. In reality, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognize. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to broken relationships or even breakups particularly with men.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty following instructions and juggling deadlines and completing commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can cause burnout, which can have a negative impact on their job performance and their professional career.
Women with adult ADHD often have trouble staying focused, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They may also be susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They can also have difficulty in expressing their emotions and are often misunderstood. For instance mood swings could be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges, there are still many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is a support group specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. These groups are a great place to seek advice on the diagnosis options for children and adults, as well how to manage your illness.
There are many adult ADHD support groups in the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals and accomplishments. The information on the meeting on their website or Facebook page. You can also reach them with questions if you'd like to attend an upcoming event.
4. www.iampsychiatry.uk with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes may cause or exacerbate emotional issues like mood swings and anger.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help to control excess energy, increase focus and improve attention. So, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social atmosphere take part in a group class or a gym. Be aware that although exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD, it won't cure them all by itself - it is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.