ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go undiagnosed for ADHD as symptoms are less evident for females. They can also be mistaken for other disorders and this could delay the referral.
It is important to explore and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and exacerbate ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify particularly in women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms differ for females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD, as it is more prevalent in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because women aren't referred as frequently. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than men, making them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies like concealing their face with makeup or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviors.
Symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is due to the fact that they be affected by hormonal changes that cause mood swings. It may also be difficult to keep track of routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and anger for those who are unable to get the help they require. This can be particularly the case for those on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD assessments and it can take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is essential to mention to your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD because they'll need to take it seriously and request a referral. It is also important to explain the reasons why you think you have ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. Alternately, you can consider obtaining an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD can be harder to identify than men, partly because the signs aren't so obvious, particularly when they are adults. They may develop compensatory strategies to cover up their problems and they can be very damaging. This includes drinking heavily, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to experience an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teens who are unplanned and have early pregnancy.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then recommend a treatment that is the most appropriate for you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting adhd test for women for these services can be long, and in some cases it can be difficult to get referred because the problem is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's problems are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs) rather than ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, you must choose a therapist who understands the disorder and will work with your ADHD problems. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms and diet modifications can make a difference too. For example, eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less pronounced. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in sugar and junk food can increase these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices such as meditation could be beneficial for you. They can be extremely useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. inattentive adhd in women can be taught by a qualified instructor. adhd test for women can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD typically find their symptoms less obvious than men. This is likely due to the fact that females don't display as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This makes it more difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this isn't to suggest that they don't have any signs. In fact, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize. Additionally, they may have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in strained or dissolved relationships particularly with men.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at work and school. They may have trouble following instructions in completing deadlines and keeping on top of their commitments. They may be unable to accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout which could have a negative impact on their performance at work and career.
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, easily forgetting things and a lack of organization. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. They may also have trouble with their emotions and are often misunderstood by others. For example, mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges There are still plenty of options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is a support group that is specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. They are a great way 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 a number 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. You can find the details of the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. You can reach them with any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD have particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings and irritation.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, producing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. In addition, it helps to reduce stress and increase concentration and attention. Try to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your day.
You can exercise at home or, if you want to socialize take part in a group or gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms but it can't eliminate them. It should be incorporated with other strategies for managing symptoms. The ideal goal is to complete 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.