7 Simple Changes That Will Make The Biggest Difference In 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 disorders and delay the diagnosis.
It is important to explore and address the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females with ADHD. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence can unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to diagnose particularly in women. A lot of the symptoms are different for women. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They could be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is also more often seen in boys and men and doctors may not be aware of the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't often referred to as swiftly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men and are less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They may resort to strategies for coping, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. They may be unable to keep track of their activities and stick to routines. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, waiting times for assessments are frustrating and stressful for those who haven't been successful in getting the assistance they require. This is particularly relevant for those on the NHS since there are a small number of doctors who can conduct ADHD tests and it could take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. It is important to tell your GP that you believe you may have ADHD because they'll need to take this seriously and request an appointment. You must also provide the reasons you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to aid in speeding up the process. You can also consider obtaining an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose than men, in part because the symptoms are not as obvious, especially when they are adults. They might develop strategies to conceal their issues and they can be extremely damaging. A few of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis, and trying to gain social support by participating in risky activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in more sexually transmitted illnesses and teens, unplanned and early pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then refer you to the appropriate service for you - this usually is a mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are lengthy and in some cases it can be difficult to be referred because of the lack of seriousness which the problem is dealt with. This could be due to the fact that the GP isn't aware of adult ADHD, or because they believe that the individual's issues are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, it's important to select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the condition, and is willing to work with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists specialise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. Medication can help to reduce some of your symptoms and diet changes can also make a difference. For instance, a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. On the other side, a diet that is high in junk food and sugar can exacerbate these symptoms.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation might be beneficial to you, as they can be very effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a trained instructor. The NHS service locator will help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than men. This is likely due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. But, that's not to say that they don't have any signs. They might have ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize, such as inattention ADHD. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in ruptures or broken relationships particularly with men.
Women who have inattentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They may have trouble adhering to instructions in completing deadlines and keeping the track of their commitments. They may also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. 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 may also be prone self-doubt and depression. They can also have difficulty communicating their feelings, and are often misinterpreted. For example, mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are still many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can be found online and in person. These groups are an excellent way to get advice about the diagnosis options for adults and children, and also how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups across the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their struggles, goals and achievements. The meeting details can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. You can also reach them with any questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend a future event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems like mood swings and anger.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your daily.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you want to socialize join a club or gym. adhd in adult women symptoms I Am Psychiatry can ease certain ADHD symptoms but it can't cure them. It should be incorporated with other strategies to manage symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.