ADHD in women and attention deficit disorder and Girls

diagnosing adhd in adult women is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as evident. They can also be misdiagnosed as other conditions and delay referral.

It is crucial to understand and manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and exacerbate ADHD in some women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly in women. This is because many of the symptoms differ for females. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They might be misdiagnosed as having mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.

Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it's more common in men and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females aren't referred to doctors as quickly. Girls may also conceal 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.

The symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women go through perimenopause or menopause. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. They might also find it harder to keep track of things and follow routines. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.

While awareness of ADHD has risen due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait times for assessments are causing stress and frustration for those who aren't successful in getting the help they need. This is particularly applicable to those who are on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.

The first step in receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You can also try to obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.

2. Talk with your doctor

Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to recognize than men, in part because the symptoms are not so obvious, particularly in adulthood. They may develop compensatory strategies to cover up their problems which could be detrimental to their health. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teens, early and unplanned pregnancies.

The GPs will take any reports of ADHD very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is the most appropriate for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.

The waiting times for these services are lengthy and in some cases it can be difficult to get referred due to the lack of seriousness with which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes the person's problems are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) instead of ADHD symptoms.

It is crucial to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is especially helpful for those suffering from ADHD.

Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. add treatment for women and dietary changes can help to reduce the symptoms. For instance, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less pronounced. A diet rich in sugars and junk food may increase the severity of these symptoms.

It is also advisable to ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation might be helpful for you. They can be extremely beneficial in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified teacher. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.

3. Find a support group

Women with ADHD often notice their symptoms are less apparent than males. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult to diagnose them. However, this is not to suggest that they don't have any signs. In reality, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained relationships, particularly with men.

Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to face difficulties at school and work. They can have trouble following directions and keeping track of deadlines and completing commitments. They might be unable to accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can lead to burnout that can negatively impact their job and career.

Women with adult ADHD often have trouble keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and are not organized. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. In addition, they may have trouble with their emotions and are often not understood by others. For instance, mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.

Despite these difficulties there are many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program that is designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups can be found on the internet and in person. They are an excellent way to receive information on the diagnosis process for both adults and children as well as how to manage your condition.

If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several 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, achievements and aspirations. You can find the information on the meeting on their website and their Facebook page. You can also reach them with questions if you'd like to attend a future event.

4. Exercise

Women suffering from adhd women uk may face challenges in managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuation and irritability.

Exercise can reduce the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and decreasing stress. Plus, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and focus. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your day.

You can exercise at home or, if you want to socialize take part in a group or gym. Remember that although exercise can alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't cure them all by itself - it should be paired with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.