ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are not as evident. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions, which could delay the diagnosis.

It is crucial to understand and address the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence may cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.

1. Get a diagnosis

adhd in adult women treatment can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, especially for women. This is because many of the symptoms are different for females. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They might be misdiagnosed as having mental health issues, like anxiety or depression.

ADHD is more frequently observed in men and boys So doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't often referred to as frequently. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than men, making them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might use strategies to cope, like hiding behind makeup or acting out to disguise their behaviour and emotions.

The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It can also be difficult to follow routines and stay on top of their tasks. This could affect how they manage their home, work and other obligations.

While awareness of ADHD has increased due to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait times for assessments are creating stress and frustration for people who haven't been able to access the help they need. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD tests. It can take a long time to make an appointment.

The first step towards getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. You should tell your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons behind why you think you might have ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You may also receive an assessment through private healthcare.

2. Speak to your doctor

Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to diagnose than men, mainly because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly when they are adults. These strategies can be harmful since they can try to cover up their issues. A few of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls with adhd women uk (https://blogfreely.net/) are also more likely to experience more sexually transmitted diseases and teens, unplanned and early pregnancy.

The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is best suited to you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.

Waiting times for these services can be long, and in some cases it can be difficult to be referred because the problem isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's issues are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.

It is essential to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is especially helpful for people with ADHD.

Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. The use of medication and diet changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. On the other side, a diet that is high in junk food and sugar can worsen the symptoms.

You should also ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be beneficial to you. They can be extremely beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques with a certified teacher. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.

3. Find a support group

Women who suffer from ADHD might have less obvious symptoms than men. This is probably because females don't have as many hyperactive or impulsive symptoms. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. But, that's not to say that they aren't suffering from any symptoms. In fact, they could be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained relationships, particularly with males.

Women who have inattentive adhd in women ADHD are more likely to struggle at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping the track of their commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout, which could negatively impact their career and job performance.

Some of the most common symptoms and signs of adult adhd symptoms women ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily, and poor organisation. They may also be susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They can also have difficulty expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For instance mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.

Despite these difficulties There are still plenty of options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are offered online and in person. They are an excellent way to receive information on the diagnosis process for adults and children, and also how to manage your illness.

If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals and accomplishments. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. Contact them with any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event.

4. Exercise

Women who suffer from ADHD may face particular issues that make it more difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings and irritation.

Exercise can reduce these symptoms, release of feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Try to include a regular exercise routine in your daily routine.

Do your exercise at home, or, if you'd like to be social join a club or gym. Just remember, that while exercise can alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't solve them all by itself - it must be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.