ADHD in Women and Girls

Girls and women often go undiagnosed for ADHD since symptoms are more apparent in females. They may also be mistaken for other disorders and this can delay the referral.

Symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from adhd for add adult women women (https://telegra.ph/10-Undisputed-Reasons-People-Hate-ADHD-In-Women-Signs-10-10) need to be investigated and addressed as appropriate. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and exacerbate ADHD in certain women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly in women. This is because a lot of the symptoms differ in females. For instance, while males tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.

ADHD is also more often seen in boys and men So doctors may not be aware of the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis as females often don't get referred as frequently. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely to be noticed by their teachers or parents. They may resort to coping methods like wearing make-up or acting out to hide their emotions and behavior.

The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is because they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. They might be unable to stay on top of things and follow routines. This can impact their ability to manage their home, work and other obligations.

The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they need. This is particularly applicable to those on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.

The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is seeing your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and will request a referral. It is also important to explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can help speed up the process. Alternatively, you can attempt to obtain an assessment through the private healthcare route.

2. Talk with your doctor

Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood aren't always obvious. These strategies can be harmful since they can try to cover up 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. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.

GPs take reports of ADHD very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. Then they will recommend the best service for you. This typically a community mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.

The wait times for these services can be long and in some cases, it is difficult to refer someone because of the lack of seriousness with which the problem is treated. This could be because the GP does not know about adult ADHD, or because they believe that the person's problems are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety, or abuse of substances) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.

It is crucial to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD challenges. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially helpful for people suffering from ADHD.

Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Treatment can ease certain symptoms, and diet changes can help. For example, eating a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of hyperactivity in women and impulsivity less pronounced. On the other side, a diet that is high in sugar and junk foods can worsen the symptoms.

You should also ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices like meditation might be beneficial to you. They can be very helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified instructor. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.

3. Find a support group

Women with ADHD might exhibit less obvious symptoms than men. This is probably because females don't have as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. This does not mean that they are not suffering from symptoms. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause difficult relationships, especially with men.

Women with inattention ADHD may be more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping on top of commitments. They may also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These issues can lead to burnout which could have a negative impact on their job performance and career.

Some of the most common symptoms and signs of ADHD in add women include difficulty paying attention, a tendency to forget things easily, and poor organisation. They may also be susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have trouble expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For instance mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.

Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is a support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can be found on the internet and in person. They are great ways to get advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as how to manage your illness.

If you're looking for 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 offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals, and successes. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. You can also contact them with any questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend an upcoming event.

4. Exercise

Women with ADHD can face particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes may cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings and anger.

Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.

Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a more social environment you can join a class or a gym. Exercise can help with certain ADHD symptoms but it can't eliminate them. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to do 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.