ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are less evident. They can also be mistaken for other conditions and this could delay the diagnosis.
Signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and treated as needed. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly for women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms differ in females. For example, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it's more prevalent in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis as females often don't get referred as frequently. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than boys. This means they are less likely to be noticed by their teachers or parents. They might use coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. simply click the following webpage may also be difficult to keep track of routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and anger to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they require. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can conduct ADHD tests. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. It is essential to tell your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD since they will have to take it seriously and ask for an appointment. You should also explain the reasons behind why you think you may have ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You may also get an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they are adults, may not be as obvious. They may develop compensatory strategies to hide their problems which can be very damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
GPs will take any report of ADHD seriously and will ask you about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is the most appropriate for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be lengthy, and in some cases it can be difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP does not know about adult ADHD, or because they believe that the person's problems are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended, it is important to select a therapist that is aware of the condition, and will work with your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Treatment and dietary changes can help to reduce the symptoms. A diet high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help to reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other side, a diet that is high in sugar and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices like meditation might be beneficial to you. They can be extremely helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques by a trained instructor. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD might exhibit more subtle symptoms than males. This could be due to the fact that females don't have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult to identify them. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any symptoms. In fact, they could be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognise. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at work and school. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions in completing deadlines and keeping the track of commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout that can have a negative impact on their career and job performance.
Some of the most prevalent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily, and poor organisation. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have trouble communicating their feelings, and are often misunderstood. For example mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are a lot of resources available to adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is an intervention program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups can be found online and in person. These groups are a great place to receive advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They offer a safe place for adults with ADHD to share their challenges, achievements and aspirations. The meeting details can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can also contact them with questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD may face particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce the symptoms by producing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. So, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not solve the symptoms. It should be incorporated with other strategies for managing symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.