What Is ADHD Women UK? History Of ADHD Women UK
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 and delay the referral.
The signs of depression, anxiety and eating disorders among females with ADHD need to be investigated and treated as needed. The transitional phases of adolescence and pregnancy can also unmask and exacerbate ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adulthood, particularly for women. A lot of the symptoms are different for women. For instance, while males tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have difficulty in concentrating or staying still. They could be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be familiarized with ADHD because it's more common in men and boys. This can lead to delays in diagnosis because females aren't often referred to as swiftly. Girls can also hide their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping methods like wearing make-up or putting on a show to conceal their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. It may also be difficult to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This could affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can be stressful and cause frustration for those who are unable to receive the assistance they need. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS and have a limited number of doctors who perform ADHD tests and it could take years to secure an appointment.
The first step to get an assessment is to see your GP. You should tell your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and will request a referral. You must also state why you believe you might be suffering from ADHD. You can download a letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. Alternately, you can attempt to obtain an assessment via the private healthcare route.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, especially when they are adults aren't always evident. They might develop strategies to conceal their issues, and these can be extremely damaging. A few of these include drinking excessively smoking cannabis, or trying to build social support by engaging in risky activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, early and unplanned pregnancies.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then recommend a treatment that is most suitable for you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting adhd symptoms in women adults for these services can be lengthy In some instances, it is difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't treated with enough seriousness. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's problems are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs) instead of ADHD symptoms.
Once you've been referred, it is important to choose a therapist who understands the disorder and is willing to tackle your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Managing ADHD symptoms requires a lifetime commitment. Medication and dietary changes may help to reduce the symptoms. For instance, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. A diet high in sugars and junk food can increase the severity of these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation might be beneficial to you because they can be very efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified instructor. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD tend to have less visible symptoms than men. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. This doesn't mean they are not suffering from symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect, such as inattentive ADHD. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause ruptures or broken relationships, especially with men.
Women who are not attentive ADHD are more likely to have difficulties at work and school. They may have trouble adhering to instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping on top of their commitments. They may also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These issues can lead to burnout, which could have a negative impact on their job performance and career.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things, and poor organisation. adhd in adult women treatment are also susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are often not understood by others. For instance, changes in mood could be interpreted as a sudden rage or anger.
Despite these difficulties, there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program that is designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are accessible both online and in person. They are a great way to get advice on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as how to manage your condition.
There are many adult ADHD support groups throughout 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 wish to talk about their challenges, goals and achievements. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page or website. You can also reach them with any questions you may have if you'd like to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress and increase concentration and focus. Therefore, try to include a regular workout routine into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or, if you prefer a more social environment, join a group class or a gym. Remember that although exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD but it's not going to solve them all on its own - it should be paired with other symptom-management strategies. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.