ADHD in Women and Girls

Girls and women are often not being diagnosed with ADHD since symptoms are more apparent for females. They may also be mistaken for other conditions, which could delay referral.

It is important to explore and address the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females with ADHD. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence may cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD is difficult to identify particularly in women. Many of the symptoms differ for women. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues like anxiety or depression.

ADHD is often observed in males and females, so doctors might not be familiar with the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as often. 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 coping strategies that include hiding behind make-up or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviour.

The symptoms of ADHD are more severe in women who are experiencing menopausal or perimenopausal. This is because they can experience hormonal fluctuations that cause mood swings. They might also find it harder to keep track of things and adhere to routines. This can impact their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.

Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to get the help they require. This is particularly applicable to those who are on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD tests. It can take a long time to secure an appointment.

The first step to getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and ask for a referral. You must also state the reasons why you think you be suffering from ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You can also attempt to obtain an assessment via the private healthcare route.

2. Talk to your doctor

Women with ADHD can be harder to recognize than men, in part because the symptoms are not as obvious, especially when they are adults. These strategies can be harmful, as they may attempt to hide their issues. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls who suffer from adhd inattentive type women are also more likely to be involved in a higher rate of sexually transmitted illnesses and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancy.

GPs will take any report of adhd inattentive type in women seriously and will inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then recommend the appropriate service for your needs. This typically a community mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.

Waiting times for the services may be long In some instances, it is difficult to get referred because the problem isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the person's issues are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.

It is essential to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD issues. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly helpful for people suffering from ADHD.

Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. treatment for adhd in women and dietary changes can help to reduce the symptoms. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity in women - Read the Full Report - and impulsivity. On the other side, a diet that is high in junk food and sugar can worsen the symptoms.

It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation might be beneficial for you, as they can be very effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods by a trained teacher. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.

3. Find a support group

Women who suffer from ADHD may have more subtle symptoms 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 for them to get diagnosed. However, this is not to say that they aren't suffering from any symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to recognize, such as inattentive ADHD. In addition, they can have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in difficult relationships, especially with men.

Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to face problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty following instructions and keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and their professional career.

Women with adult ADHD often have trouble keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted, and are not well organized. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. They may also have trouble with their emotions and are frequently thought of as a victim by other people. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.

Despite these challenges There are still plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best is a support group that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are accessible on the internet as well as 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 seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to share their struggles, successes and hopes. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page and website. You can also reach them with any questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend the next event.

4. Exercise

Women who suffer from ADHD may face unique difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms like mood fluctuations and irritability.

Exercise can ease these symptoms, by release of feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help to reduce excess energy and improve focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your day.

Do your exercise at home, or, if you'd like to be social, join a group or gym. Remember that although exercise can reduce certain symptoms of ADHD, it won't fix them completely by itself - it must be combined with other symptom-management strategies. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.