The 12 Worst Types Of Accounts You Follow On Twitter
ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as obvious. It is possible to mistake them for other disorders and this could delay referral.
Signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be explored and treated as needed. The transitional phases of adolescence and pregnancy can also unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is difficult to identify, especially in women. This is due to the fact that many symptoms are different for females. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have trouble in concentrating or staying still. This means that they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is also more often seen in boys and men, so doctors might not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can lead to delays in diagnosis as females aren't often referred to as frequently. Girls also conceal their symptoms better than males. adhd in adult women test makes them less likely to get noticed by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping methods like hiding behind make-up or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is because they be affected by hormonal changes that make them more prone to mood swings. They may also have difficulty to keep track of things and follow routines. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has increased due to high profile personalities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait times for assessments are frustrating and stressful for those who haven't been able to access the assistance they require. This is especially relevant for those on the NHS and have a limited number of doctors who carry out ADHD assessments and it can take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step in getting the diagnosis is to visit your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will take this seriously and ask for an appointment. It is also important to explain why you believe you have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and aid in speeding up the process. You can also try to get an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Speak to your doctor
Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they are adults, may not be as evident. They may develop compensatory strategies to hide their problems which can be very damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have a higher rate of sexually transmitted diseases, teens who are unplanned and have early-stage pregnancy.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will recommend the most appropriate service for your needs. This typically a community mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services are long and, in some instances, 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 unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes the person's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. Medication and dietary changes may aid in reducing your symptoms. For example, eating a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less noticeable. A diet high in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices like meditation might be helpful for you. They can be extremely helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified teacher. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD typically notice their symptoms are less apparent than those with ADHD. This is probably due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, this does not mean they are not suffering from symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize, such as inattentive ADHD. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in broken relationships or even breakups particularly with men.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty following instructions or deadlines, as well as keeping the track of their commitments. They can also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These issues can lead to burnout, which could negatively impact their career and job performance.
The most frequent symptoms and signs of ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily and having a poor organization. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. They can also have difficulty in expressing their emotions and are often misinterpreted. For example mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are still many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best is an online support group specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups can be found online and in person. These groups are an excellent way to get advice about diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as how to manage your illness.
There are a variety of adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. For example, 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 meeting details on their website and Facebook page. Contact them with any questions or would like to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face unique difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms like mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and reducing stress. It also helps reduce excess energy and increase focus and concentration. Make sure to incorporate an exercise routine that you regularly do in your daily routine.
Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social setting, join a group class or gym. Just remember, that while exercise can reduce certain symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to solve them all on its own - it is best to combine it with other symptom-management strategies. Ideally, you should aim to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.