ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women often go undiagnosed for ADHD because the symptoms are less evident in females. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other disorders and delay the diagnosis.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females with ADHD should be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to identify in adulthood, especially for women. This is because many of the symptoms are different for females. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. This means that 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 can cause delays in diagnosis, since females aren't referred to doctors as quickly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might use strategies to cope, like concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out to cover up their actions and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. This is because they be affected by hormonal changes that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. They might also have difficulty to keep track of things and stick to routines. This could affect their ability to manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to get the help they require. This can be particularly the case for those on the NHS, as there is a limited number of doctors who perform ADHD assessments and it can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is seeing your GP. You should tell your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request a referral. It is also important to explain the reasons behind why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and help speed up the process. Alternatively, you can try to get an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose than men, mainly because the signs aren't as evident, especially as an adult. These strategies can be harmful, as they may try to conceal their issues. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. Gangs, prostitution and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in a higher rate of sexually transmitted diseases, teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
The GPs will take any reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. They will then direct you to the appropriate service for your needs. This usually is a mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can 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 the person's difficulties are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred to a therapist, you must choose a therapist who understands the issue and is willing to tackle your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly helpful for those suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. The use of medication and diet changes can help reduce your symptoms. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in sugar and junk foods can worsen the symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation could be beneficial for you as they can be extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. adhd symptoms in women adults can learn these techniques with a certified teacher. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD may have less apparent symptoms than men. This could be due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. This does not mean that they don't have symptoms. In fact, they could have inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognise. In addition, they could struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships particularly with men.
Women who have inattentive ADHD may be more likely to struggle with work and school. They can have trouble adhering to instructions and keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout which could negatively impact their job and career.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily and having a poor organization. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. They may also have trouble with their emotions and are frequently thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden rage or anger.
Despite these issues, there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are accessible both online and in person. They are a great way to get information on the diagnosis process for children and adults, and also how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults with ADHD to share their challenges, achievements and hopes. You can find the information on the meeting on their website or their Facebook page. You can also reach them with any questions you may have or if you'd like the opportunity to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD have unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms like mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase concentration and attention. Try to include a regular exercise routine in your daily routine.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you want to socialize, join a group or gym. Be aware that although exercise can reduce certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't fix them completely by itself - it should be paired with other symptom-management strategies. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.