ADHD in Women and Girls

Girls and women often go undiagnosed for ADHD as symptoms are less obvious in females. They can also be misdiagnosed as other conditions and delay the diagnosis.

Signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be investigated and addressed as appropriate. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence can cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly for women. The symptoms differ for women. While men are more active and impulsive, women typically have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. This means that they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems such as anxiety or depression.

ADHD is more frequently observed in men and boys and doctors may not be aware of the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't often referred to as frequently. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They might resort to strategies for coping, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out to cover up their actions and feelings.

Symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. It may also be difficult to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can impact their ability to 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, the long wait for assessments is causing stress and frustration for people who haven't been able to access the assistance they require. This is especially the case for those on the NHS since there are a limited number of doctors that can conduct ADHD assessments and it can take years to get an appointment.

The first step in obtaining the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is essential to inform your GP that you believe you might have ADHD since they will have to take it seriously and ask for a referral. You should also explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and assist in the speedy process. Alternatively, you can consider obtaining an assessment via the private healthcare route.

2. Speak to your doctor

Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly when they are adults aren't always evident. These strategies can be harmful, since they can attempt to hide their issues. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activity are all examples of high-risk actions. Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in more sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.

Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then recommend a add treatment for women that is the most appropriate for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.

The wait times for these services can be long and 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 doesn't know about adult ADHD, or because they think that the person's challenges are due to other factors (like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) and not by their ADHD symptoms.

It is essential to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD challenges. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.

Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. Medication and dietary changes may aid in reducing your symptoms. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet rich in sugars and junk food can cause these symptoms to worsen.

It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation might be beneficial to you, as they can be extremely efficient in helping those suffering from adhd in women assessment to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a trained instructor. The NHS service locator can help you find a provider near you.

3. Find a support group

Women with ADHD often have less visible symptoms than those with ADHD. This could be due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, Weiter... this is not to say that they aren't suffering from any symptoms. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. Additionally, they may have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in ruptures or broken relationships particularly with men.

Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They may have trouble following directions in completing deadlines and keeping the track of their commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or [Redirect Only] constructive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout that could negatively impact their career and job performance.

Women with adult Adhd In Middle Aged Women frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have trouble in expressing their emotions and are often not understood. For instance, mood swings could be interpreted as a sudden rage or anger.

Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available 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 many 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 discuss their challenges, achievements and aspirations. The information about the meeting are available on their Facebook page or on their website. Contact them with any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.

4. Exercise

Women who suffer from ADHD can face unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuations and irritability.

Exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and focus. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine.

Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a more social environment you can join a class or gym. Exercise can help with certain adhd in women symptoms symptoms but it can't cure them. It should be incorporated with other strategies to manage symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.