ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed in girls and women because the symptoms are less evident. They may also be mistaken for other disorders and this can delay the referral.

It is essential to investigate and manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD. Adolescence, pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD in some women.

1. Get a diagnosis

mild adhd in women can be difficult to identify in adulthood, especially for women. This is because many of the symptoms are different in females. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. This means that they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.

Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD, as it is more prevalent in men and boys. This can lead to delays attention deficit in women diagnosis as women aren't referred as swiftly. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely to be noticed by parents or teachers. They may use coping techniques, such as hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their feelings and behaviour.

The symptoms of ADHD can worsen when women and attention deficit disorder are going through menopause or perimenopausal. This is due to the fact that they be affected by hormonal changes that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It can also be difficult to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can impact how they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.

The waiting time for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration for those who are unable to receive the help they require. This is particularly true for those on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who can conduct ADHD tests. It can take years to make an appointment.

The first step to getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is crucial to mention to your GP that you believe you might have ADHD because they will need to take this seriously and ask for a referral. You should also explain the reasons why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You can also attempt to obtain an assessment via the private healthcare route.

2. Talk with your doctor

Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, especially when they are adults might not be as obvious. These strategies can be harmful, because they might attempt to hide their issues. Some of them include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support by engaging in risky activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.

Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. Then they will direct you to the most appropriate service for your needs. This typically a community mental health service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service.

The wait times for these services can be lengthy and in some instances it can be difficult to be referrals because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes the person's difficulties are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.

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

The management of ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms and dietary changes can also make a difference. For instance, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less noticeable. A diet rich in sugars and junk foods can cause these symptoms to worsen.

You should also ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices, such as meditation, could be beneficial for you. They can be very useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods from a qualified teacher. The NHS service locator can help you find an NHS provider close to you.

3. Find a support group

Women who suffer from ADHD might have more subtle symptoms than males. This is probably because females don't have as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This makes it more difficult to diagnose them. However, this does not mean they are not suffering from symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to spot, like inattention ADHD. In addition, they could have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause broken relationships or even breakups particularly with men.

Women who are not attentive adhd traits in women are more likely to experience difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty following instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping on top of commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout, which could have a negative impact on their work performance and their professional career.

Women who suffer from adult ADHD often have trouble staying focused, forgetting easily and are not organized. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. They can also have difficulty communicating their feelings, and are often misinterpreted. For instance, changes in mood could be interpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.

Despite these challenges there are many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is an online support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. These groups are a great place to receive advice on diagnostic methods for children and adults, as well as how to manage your illness.

There are many adult ADHD support groups in the UK. For instance, the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults with ADHD to share their challenges, successes and goals. The meeting details on their website and Facebook page. You can reach them with any questions or would like to attend an forthcoming event.

4. Exercise

Women who suffer from ADHD have particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms like mood fluctuations and irritability.

Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reduce stress. It can also help to reduce excess energy and increase focus and concentration. Make sure to incorporate an exercise routine that you regularly do in your day.

Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social atmosphere take part in a group class or gym. Exercise can ease some adhd Women Uk symptoms, but it will not eliminate them. It should be incorporated with other strategies to treat symptoms. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.