ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women often go undiagnosed for ADHD as symptoms are less obvious in females. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions, which could delay the referral.
Signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females with ADHD should be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. Transitional periods such as adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and exacerbate ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to identify in adulthood, particularly for women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms differ in females. For instance, while males tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, many women have difficulty in concentrating or staying still. As a result, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD, as it is more prevalent in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis as females often don't get referred as swiftly. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than men, making them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They may use coping techniques that include hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their feelings and behaviors.
Symptoms of ADHD can get worse as women enter perimenopausal or menopausal. This is because they can be affected by hormonal changes that cause mood swings. adhd test for women may be unable to stay on top of things and stick to routines. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for tests are frustrating and stressful for those who aren't able to access the assistance they require. This can be particularly relevant for those on the NHS, as there is a limited number of doctors that can carry out ADHD tests and it could take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step to getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You should tell your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request a referral. You should also explain the reasons why you think you have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to aid in speeding up the process. Alternatively, you can try to get an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, particularly as they age might not be as obvious. These strategies can be harmful, as they may try to conceal their issues. Some of them include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to gain social support by participating in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls with ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then recommend the most appropriate service for you. This usually is a mental health service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be long In some instances, it is difficult to get referrals 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 person's difficulties are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Treatment can ease some of your symptoms, and diet changes can help. For instance, a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less apparent. A diet that is high in sugars and junk food can cause these symptoms to worsen.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation could be useful for you as they are extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods with a certified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to have less visible symptoms than those with ADHD. This could be because females don't have as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it harder for them to be diagnosed. However, this isn't to say that they don't have any symptoms. In reality, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognise. In addition, they can struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in ruptures or broken relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD may be more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They may have trouble adhering to instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping on top of commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These issues can cause burnout, which can have a negative effect on their job performance and their professional career.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily and are not organized. They are also susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They may also have trouble in expressing their emotions and are often not understood. For instance mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the best is a support group that is specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. They are great ways to get information on the diagnosis process for both adults and children as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to discuss their challenges, achievements and hopes. The meeting details on their website or their Facebook page. You can reach them if you have any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes may cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings, and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, releasing feel good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help to manage excess energy, and increase focus and improve attention. Make sure to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social setting take part in a group class or gym. Be aware that although exercise can reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to cure them all on its own - it is best to combine it with other symptom-management strategies. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.