ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the signs aren't as obvious. They are also often misdiagnosed as other disorders and delay referral.
It is important to explore and treat the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders among females with ADHD. Periods of transition such as adolescence and pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose, especially in women. The symptoms are different for women. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have difficulty being able to concentrate or sit still. Because of this, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is more frequently observed in men and boys and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females aren't referred to doctors as often. Girls can also hide symptoms better than boys. This makes them less likely to get noticed by their teachers or parents. They might use coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to cover up their actions and feelings.
adhd in women test of ADHD can become more severe when women are experiencing menopausal or perimenopausal. This is due to the fact that they experience hormonal fluctuations that cause mood swings. They may be unable to stay on top of things and follow routines. This can impact their ability to manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting for assessments is causing stress and frustration for those who aren't able to access the assistance they require. This is especially the case for those on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is seeing your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and ask for a referral. You should also explain the reasons why you think you be suffering from ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You can also try to receive an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize than men, partly because the symptoms are not as evident, especially in adulthood. They may develop compensatory strategies to conceal their issues, and these could be detrimental to their health. A few of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activity are all examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases and teens who are unplanned and have early pregnancy.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is best suited to you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long and, in some instances it can be difficult to refer someone due to the lack of seriousness with which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes the person's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD challenges. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a continuous process that can last for a lifetime. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. A diet high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet that is high in sugars and junk foods can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation could be beneficial for you as they are extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified instructor. The NHS service locator can help you find an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than those with ADHD. This is likely because females don't exhibit as many hyperactive or impulsive symptoms. This can make it harder to identify them. This doesn't mean they don't have symptoms. In fact, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognise. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to tensions in relationships, especially with males.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty following instructions in completing deadlines and keeping on top of their commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout which could have a negative impact on their performance at work and career.
The most frequent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily 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 thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden rage or anger.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. These groups are a great way to get advice about the diagnosis options for adults and children, and also how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups across the UK. For example, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They offer a safe place for adults suffering from ADHD to share their struggles, successes and goals. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page and website. Contact them if you have any questions or want to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD may face particular challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes may trigger or exacerbate emotional problems like mood swings and irritation.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, releasing feel good hormones and reducing the stress. Plus, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and focus. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social setting, join a group class or a gym. Just remember, that while exercise can reduce certain symptoms of ADHD however, it will not fix them completely by itself - it is best to combine it with other symptom-management strategies. Ideally, you should aim to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.