Why ADHD Women UK Isn't A Topic That People Are Interested In.
ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go not being diagnosed with ADHD since symptoms are more obvious for females. They are also often misdiagnosed as other disorders which may delay the referral.
It is important to explore and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. Adolescence, pregnancy or adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose, especially in women. The symptoms differ for women. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is also more often seen in boys and men, so doctors might not be knowledgeable about the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, as females are not referred to doctors as quickly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They may use coping techniques like hiding behind make-up or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviors.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopause. This is because they can be affected by hormonal changes that make them more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging for them to follow routines and manage their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their home, work and other obligations.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to get the help they require. This is particularly relevant for those on the NHS since there are a small number of doctors who conduct ADHD assessments and it can take years to get an appointment.
The first step in receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. You should also explain why you believe you be suffering from ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. Alternately, you can attempt to obtain an assessment through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD can be harder to identify than men, partly because the symptoms are not as evident, especially as an adult. They may develop compensatory strategies to conceal their issues, and these can be extremely damaging. A few of these include excessive drinking smoking cannabis, or trying to create social connections by engaging in risky activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activity are all examples of high-risk behaviors. Girls who suffer from ADHD can also have increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. Then, they will refer you to the most appropriate service for you. This is usually a community mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services can be long In some instances, it is difficult to get diagnosed because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes the person's issues are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is willing to work with you in addressing your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is especially helpful for people suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. The use of medication can reduce certain symptoms, and dietary changes can help. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. A diet rich in sugars and junk food may increase the severity of these symptoms.
It is also advisable to ask your GP whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation could be beneficial for you. They are useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques with a certified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might have more subtle symptoms than males. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This can make it harder for them to be diagnosed. However, this isn't to suggest that they don't have any symptoms. They might have ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize, such as inattentive ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause tensions in relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattention ADHD may be more likely to have difficulties with school and work. They can have trouble adhering to instructions and juggling deadlines and completing commitments. They might be unable to accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These challenges can lead them to burnout which could negatively impact their job and career.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things, and poor organisation. They may also be prone self-doubt and depression. Additionally, add symptoms in adult women can struggle with their emotions and are frequently misunderstood by others. For example, mood swings can be perceived as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are plenty of resources available for adults with ADHD. One of the best options is a support program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online as well as in person. They are an excellent way to receive advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, and also how to manage your illness.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are a number in the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to discuss their challenges, achievements and goals. The details of the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can contact them with any questions or want to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional symptoms, such as mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing feel-good hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help control excess energy and improve concentration and attention. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you'd like to socialize take part in a group or gym. Exercise can help with certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate the symptoms. It is best to combine it with other strategies to treat symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.