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ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the signs aren't as evident. They can also be mistaken for other conditions, which can delay referral.

It is important to explore and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among females with ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD can be hard to identify in adulthood, particularly for women. Many of the symptoms are different for women. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.





Doctors might not be aware with ADHD, as it is more common in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't seen by doctors as frequently. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than males and are less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies like hiding behind make-up or putting on a show to conceal their feelings and behaviour.

The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are experiencing menopausal or perimenopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. It may also be difficult for them to follow routines and manage their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other obligations.

Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and anger for those who are unable to receive the assistance they require. This is particularly the case for those on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can carry out ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.

The first step in getting a diagnosis is seeing your GP. It is important to mention to your GP that you think you might have ADHD because they'll need to be attentive and request an appointment. You must also state the reasons why you think you have ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. Alternatively, you can try to get an assessment through the private healthcare route.

2. Talk with your doctor

Women who suffer from ADHD can be harder to recognize than men, partly because the signs aren't so obvious, particularly in adulthood. These strategies can be harmful, since they can try to conceal their issues. A few of these include drinking excessively smoking cannabis, or trying to build social support by engaging in risky activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls who suffer from ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.

The GPs will take any reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. Then, they will refer you to the best service for you. This typically a community mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.

The waiting times for these services can be lengthy In some instances, it is difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.

Once you've been referred to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the issue and will work with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people suffering from ADHD.

The management of ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. Medication and dietary changes may help to reduce the symptoms. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help to reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. A diet rich in sugars and junk food may cause these symptoms to worsen.

It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques like meditation could be beneficial to you because they can be extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a trained teacher. The NHS service locator can help you locate the nearest provider.

3. Find a support group

Women who suffer from ADHD tend to notice their symptoms are less apparent than men. This is probably due to the fact that females don't display as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, this isn't to say that they aren't suffering from any signs. In fact, they could have inattention ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognise. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained relationships, particularly with males.

Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty following instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping track of commitments. They can also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These challenges can lead them to burnout which can negatively impact their career and job performance.

The most frequent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily and a lack of organization. They are also susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have trouble communicating their feelings, and are often not understood. For instance, mood swings can be misinterpreted as sudden outburst anger or frustration.

Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is an intervention program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. These groups are a great way to get advice about diagnostic methods for adults and children, as well how to manage your condition.

If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. adhd in young women , for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their struggles, goals and accomplishments. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page or on their website. You can also reach them with any questions in the event that you'd like to join a future event.

4. Exercise

Women with ADHD have unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuation and irritability.

Exercise can ease the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your day.

Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms but it can't cure the symptoms. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.