ADHD in Women and Girls

Girls and women are often undiagnosed for ADHD since symptoms are more apparent for females. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions and this could delay referral.

The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be investigated and treated in the appropriate way. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in some women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because a lot of the symptoms are different in females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often struggle to concentrate or sit still. As a result, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.

Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in men and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis since females aren't often referred to as swiftly. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might use strategies for coping, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out to cover up their actions and emotions.

The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is because they can experience hormonal fluctuations that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It could also be challenging to keep track of routines and stay on top of their tasks. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.

While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for assessments are creating stress and frustration for people who haven't been in a position to get the help they need. This is especially the case for those on the NHS, as there is a small number of doctors who conduct ADHD assessments and it can take years to get an appointment.

The first step towards getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will take this seriously and ask for a referral. You must also provide the reasons why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. Alternatively, you can consider obtaining an assessment through private healthcare.

2. Speak with your doctor

Women with ADHD are more difficult to diagnose than men, partly because the signs aren't as obvious, especially when they are adults. They may develop compensatory strategies to cover up their problems which can be very damaging. A few of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.

GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. They will then recommend the most appropriate service for you - this typically a community mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.

The wait times for these services are long and, in some instances, it is difficult to get referred because of the lack of seriousness which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP does not know about adult add in women adhd in young women, or because they believe that the individual's issues are caused by something else (like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) and not caused by their adhd in adults women symptoms.

It is essential to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.

Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Treatment can ease some of your symptoms, and diet changes can also make a difference. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in sugar and junk foods can worsen the symptoms.

It is also advisable to ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be beneficial to you. They are helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified teacher. The NHS service locator can help you find an NHS provider close to you.

3. Find a support group

Women with ADHD typically notice their symptoms are less apparent than those with ADHD. This is probably due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult to identify them. However, this is not to suggest that they don't have any signs. They may even have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to ruptures or broken relationships, especially with men.

Women who suffer from inattention ADHD are more likely to have difficulties with school and work. They may have trouble following directions in completing deadlines and keeping track of commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout, which can have a negative effect on their work performance and their career.

Some of the most prevalent symptoms and signs of ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things and having a poor organization. They might also be prone to depression and self-doubt. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are often thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.

Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. These groups are a great way to seek advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well how to manage your illness.

There are a variety of adult adhd symptoms women ADHD support groups in the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their challenges, successes and hopes. The information about the meeting are available on their Facebook page or website. Contact them with any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.

4. Exercise

Women suffering from adhd is different for women may have difficulty managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes may cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings, and irritation.

Exercise can ease these symptoms, by releasing feel good hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help control excess energy, increase focus and improve attention. Try to include an exercise routine that you regularly do in your daily routine.

Exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize, join a group or gym. Remember that although exercising can help alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD, it won't cure them all on its own - it must be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.