20 Trailblazers Leading The Way In ADHD Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as evident. It is possible to mistake them for other conditions and this could delay referral.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be investigated and addressed as appropriate. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and exacerbate ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. While men are more active and impulsive, women typically have trouble concentrating or sitting still. Because of this, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because women aren't referred as frequently. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This makes them less likely to get noticed by parents or teachers. They might use strategies for coping, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out, to hide their behavior and feelings.
The symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is because they can experience hormonal fluctuations that cause mood swings. It may also be difficult to follow routines and manage their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can be stressful and cause frustration for those who are unable to get the help they need. This can be particularly relevant for those on the NHS since there are a small number of doctors that can carry out ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is important to inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and will request a referral. You must also provide the reasons why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to aid in speeding up the process. You may also get an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD can be harder to diagnose than men, partly because the symptoms are not as evident, especially when they are adults. They may develop strategies to conceal their issues which could be detrimental to their health. Some of them include excessive drinking smoking cannabis, or trying to create social connections by engaging in risky activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activity are all examples of high-risk activities. Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
The GPs will take any reports of ADHD very seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will refer you to the appropriate service for your needs. This typically a community mental health clinic or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be lengthy, and in some cases it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue is not taken seriously enough. 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 substance misuse) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD challenges. Some therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is especially helpful for people suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Medication and dietary changes may help reduce your symptoms. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in junk food and sugar can exacerbate these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based practices such as meditation might be beneficial to you because they can be very effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods by a trained instructor. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD typically notice their symptoms are less apparent than men. adhd in women adult is likely due to the fact that females don't display as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it harder to identify them. This doesn't mean they don't have symptoms. In fact, they could have inattentive ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognize. In addition, they could struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions and keeping track of deadlines and keeping promises. They might also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These issues can cause burnout, which can have a negative effect on their performance at work and their career.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They might also be prone to depression and self-doubt. In addition, they may struggle with their emotions and are often misunderstood by others. For example mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program that is specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are offered on the internet and in person. They are a great way to get guidance on diagnosis routes for both adults and children and also how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They offer a safe space for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals, and achievements. You can find the details of the meeting on their website and Facebook page. Contact them with any questions or wish to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may face unique difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes may cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, by producing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Make sure to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your day.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you'd like to be social take part in a group or gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not cure them. It should be incorporated with other strategies for managing symptoms. The ideal goal is to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.