ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the signs aren't as evident. They are also often misdiagnosed as other disorders and delay referral.

Symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females with ADHD should be explored and addressed as appropriate. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence may unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly for women in adhd. This is because many symptoms are different in females. While men are more active and impulsive, women typically struggle to concentrate or sit still. They might be misdiagnosed as having mental health issues, like anxiety or depression.

ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as frequently. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than boys which makes them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may resort to strategies to cope, like hiding behind makeup or acting out, to disguise their behaviour and feelings.

Symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women in adhd experience perimenopausal or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. They may be unable to keep track of things and stick to routines. This can impact 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, the long wait times for assessments are creating stress and frustration for those who aren't in a position to get the assistance they require. This can be particularly relevant for those on the NHS and have a limited number of doctors who can conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.

The first step in getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. It is important to inform your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and ask for a referral. You should also explain the reasons you believe you may have ADHD. You can download the letter of support from adhd assessment for women UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You may also get an assessment through private healthcare.

2. Talk with your doctor

Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose, in part because their symptoms, particularly when they reach adulthood, may not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful since they can try to cover up their issues. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, famous women with Adhd gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. 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 ask you about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is best suited to you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.

The waiting times for these services can be long and in some cases, it is difficult to refer someone due to the lack of seriousness with how the issue is addressed. This could be because the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD or they believe that the person's problems are caused by other factors (like depression, anxiety, or abuse of drugs) 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 difficulties. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for those suffering from ADHD.

The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. The use of medication can reduce certain symptoms, and diet modifications can help. For example, eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less noticeable. A diet that is high in sugars and junk food may exacerbate these symptoms.

You should also ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation could be beneficial for you. They are useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a trained teacher. The NHS service locator will help you locate the nearest provider.

3. Find a support group

Women with ADHD might exhibit less apparent symptoms than men. This could be because females don't exhibit as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this does not mean they don't have symptoms. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognise. In addition, they could struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in strained relationships, particularly with men.

Famous Women With adhd with inattention ADHD are more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have trouble following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping the track of their commitments. They might be unable to accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These challenges can cause burnout, which can have a negative effect on their job performance and their professional career.

Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have difficulties expressing their emotions, and are often not understood. For example, mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.

Despite these issues, there are a lot of resources available to adults with adhd inattentive type in women. One of the best options is a support program that is designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups can be found online and in person. They are an excellent way to receive information on the diagnosis process for children and adults, and also how to manage your condition.

If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their challenges, successes and hopes. The meeting details can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can also contact them with any questions you may have or if you'd like the opportunity to attend an upcoming event.

4. Exercise

Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulties managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues like mood swings and anger.

Exercise can reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and reduce stress. It can also help to control excess energy, increase focus and improve attention. So, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your day.

You can exercise at home or, if you want to socialize join a club or gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms, but it will not solve the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies to treat symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout each week.