ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less obvious. They are also often misdiagnosed as other disorders and delay the diagnosis.
It is essential to investigate and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among females with ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy and adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly in women. A lot of the symptoms are different for women. For example, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty in concentrating or staying still. They may be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is more frequently observed in males and females, so doctors might not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis, as females aren't seen by doctors as frequently. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely be noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies like concealing their face with makeup or putting on a show to conceal their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. They might be unable to keep track of their activities and follow routines. This can impact their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
Waiting times for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration for those who are unable to receive the help they require. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. inattentive add in women is crucial to mention to your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD because they will need to take it seriously and ask for a referral. You must also state why you believe you have ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You may also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose than men, mainly because the symptoms are not as obvious, especially when they are adults. They might develop strategies to cover up their problems and they can be very damaging. These include drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teens, unplanned and early pregnancies.
Doctors take reports of ADHD very seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is the most appropriate for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for the services may be long In some instances, it is difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes the person's issues are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD challenges. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and dietary changes can also make a difference. For example, eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. On the other side, a diet that is high in sugar and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques like meditation could be beneficial for you as they can be very effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a trained instructor. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than males. This could be due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, this isn't to say that they aren't suffering from any symptoms. In fact, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognise. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at work and school. They may have trouble following directions in completing deadlines and keeping track of commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their career and job performance.
Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused, forgetting easily and are not organized. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have difficulties communicating their feelings, and are often misinterpreted. For instance, changes in mood could be interpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is a support group that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. These groups are an excellent way to get advice about the diagnosis options for both children and adults and also how to manage your condition.
There are many adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. For instance 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 discuss their struggles, goals and achievements. The information about the meeting are available on their Facebook page and website. You can reach them with any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD have unique issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems like mood swings and anger.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It also helps control excess energy, increase focus and improve attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.
You can exercise at home or, if your goal is to be social, join a group or gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies to treat symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.