10 Apps To Aid You Control Your ADHD Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the signs aren't as obvious. They can also be misdiagnosed as other conditions, which can delay the diagnosis.
It is crucial to understand and treat the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders among females with ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify, especially in women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms differ for females. For instance, while males tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, many women have difficulty in concentrating or staying still. This means that they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is often observed in men and boys and doctors may not be familiar with the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't seen by doctors as frequently. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might use coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out to hide their behavior and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopause. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. It may also be difficult to keep track of routines and manage their tasks. This can impact how they manage their home, work and other obligations.
The waiting time for assessments can cause stress and anger to those who aren't able to receive the help they require. This is especially relevant for those who are on the NHS since there are only a few doctors who are able to conduct ADHD tests. It can take a long time to make an appointment.
The first step to receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will take this seriously and request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons behind why you think you might have ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You may also receive an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to recognize, in part because their symptoms, particularly when they reach adulthood aren't always evident. These strategies can be harmful as they may attempt to hide their problems. A few of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis and trying to gain social support by participating in high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD very seriously and will ask about your symptoms. adhd in women treatment will then recommend the best service for you - this usually is a mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are long and in some cases, it is difficult to refer someone due to the lack of seriousness with which the problem is dealt with. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's problems are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist that is aware of the condition, and will work with your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process. Treatment and dietary changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. For example, eating an a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation could be beneficial for you as they can be very effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD might exhibit less apparent symptoms than men. This is probably due to the fact that females don't have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. This doesn't mean they are not suffering from symptoms. In fact, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognize. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to tensions in relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They can have trouble following directions, keeping track of deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These challenges can cause burnout, which can have a negative effect on their performance at work and career.
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things and a lack of organization. They might also be prone to self-doubt and depression. They can also have difficulty expressing their emotions, and are often misinterpreted. For instance, mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues there are many resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are accessible on the internet and in person. These groups are a great place to receive advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, and also how to manage your condition.
There are a variety of adult ADHD support groups across the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and accomplishments. The meeting details on their website or Facebook page. Contact them with any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes may trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings, and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It also helps reduce excess energy and increase focus and concentration. Therefore, you should try to include a regular workout routine into your day.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social atmosphere, join a group class or a gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms, but it will not cure them. It is best to combine it with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout every week.