ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less obvious. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions and this can delay the diagnosis.

The signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and addressed as appropriate. Transitional periods such as adolescence and pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD isn't easy to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because many symptoms are different for females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems like depression or anxiety.

Doctors might not be aware with ADHD, as it is more prevalent in males and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't seen by doctors as often. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than boys which makes them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might use coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and emotions.

Symptoms of ADHD can get worse as women enter perimenopausal or menopause. This is because they have hormonal fluctuations that can make them more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.

Waiting times for assessments can cause stress and anger for those who are unable to receive the assistance they need. This is particularly true for those who are on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to make an appointment.

The first step in receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is crucial to mention to your GP that you think you might be suffering from ADHD because they'll need to be attentive and request a referral. You should also explain the reasons you believe you may have ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You can also try to get an assessment through private healthcare.

2. Talk with your doctor

Women with ADHD can be harder to recognize than men, partly because the signs aren't so obvious, particularly when they are adults. They might develop strategies to cover up their problems which can be extremely damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls with ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.

Doctors take reports of ADHD very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is best suited to you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a 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 how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes the person's problems are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs) rather than ADHD symptoms.

It is essential to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly helpful for people suffering from adhd women Uk.

The management of adhd assessment for adult women symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication and diet changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. A diet rich 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 increase these symptoms.

It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation could be beneficial to you as they are extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified instructor. The NHS service locator will help you locate the nearest provider.

3. Find a support group

Women who suffer from ADHD may have more subtle symptoms than males. This is likely because females don't have as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any symptoms. In reality, they may have inattentive add in women adhd in women test symptoms which are more difficult to detect. In addition, they can have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in strained relationships, particularly with males.

Women who have inattentive ADHD might be more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions and juggling deadlines and keeping promises. They may also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These issues can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their job performance and career.

Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They may also be susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also be troubled by their emotions and are frequently misunderstood by others. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.

Despite these difficulties there are many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. They are great ways to get guidance on diagnosis routes for both adults and children as well as how to manage your illness.

There are a variety of adult ADHD support groups across the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their challenges, goals, and successes. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can also reach them with any questions you may have or if you'd like the opportunity to attend a future event.

4. Exercise

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

Exercise can ease these symptoms, by release of feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Try to incorporate an exercise routine that you regularly do in your daily routine.

You can exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize join a club or join a gym. Be aware that although exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD however, it will not solve them all by itself - it must be combined with other symptom-management strategies. You should aim treatment for adhd in women 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.