ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are less evident. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other conditions and delay the referral.
It is essential to investigate and manage the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because a lot symptoms are different in females. For instance, while males tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They might be misdiagnosed as having mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis, since females aren't seen by doctors as often. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely be noticed by their teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to disguise their behaviour and emotions.
Symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is due to the fact that they have hormonal fluctuations that can cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It could also be challenging for them to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can impact how they manage their work, home and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for tests are creating stress and frustration for those who aren't successful in getting the help they need. This is particularly relevant for those on the NHS and have a limited number of doctors who can perform ADHD tests and it could take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in obtaining the diagnosis is to visit your GP. You should tell your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and ask for a referral. It is also important to explain why you believe you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and aid in speeding up the process. You can also try to receive an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Speak to your doctor
Women with ADHD can be harder to recognize than men, mainly because the signs aren't as evident, especially in adulthood. They may develop strategies to cover up their problems and they can be extremely damaging. Some of these include excessive drinking smoking cannabis, or trying to gain social support by participating in risky activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is most suitable for you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for the services may be long In some instances, it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's issues are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist, it is important to choose a therapist who understands the issue and is willing to work with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms, and diet modifications can also make a difference. For instance, a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less pronounced. A diet rich in sugars and junk foods can cause these symptoms to worsen.
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 useful in helping people 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 with ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than males. This is likely due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it harder to identify them. However, attention deficit in women Iam Psychiatry isn't to say that they don't have any symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. Additionally, they may have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause difficult relationships, especially with males.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at work and school. They may have trouble following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping the track of their commitments. They might also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can cause burnout, which can have a negative effect on their performance at work and career.
Women with adult ADHD often have trouble paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They are also susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They can also have difficulty expressing their emotions, and are often not understood. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden rage or anger.
Despite these difficulties there are many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is an online support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. These groups are a great way to get advice about diagnostic methods for adults and children, and also 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 provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to discuss their struggles, successes and aspirations. You can find the information on the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. You can contact them if you have any questions or wish to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and decreasing stress. Plus, it can help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. So, try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social setting, join a group class or gym. Remember that although exercise can alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't solve them all by itself - it is best to combine it with other strategies to manage symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout each week.