ADHD Women UK: 10 Things I'd Love To Have Known Earlier

ADHD in Women and Girls

Girls and women are often not being diagnosed with ADHD as symptoms are less apparent for females. They can also be mistaken for other conditions, which could delay the diagnosis.

It is important to explore and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. Adolescence, adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD in some women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD is difficult to identify, especially in women. This is due to the fact that many of the symptoms differ in females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, females often have trouble concentrating or sitting still. They may be misdiagnosed as having mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.

Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis, since females aren't seen by doctors as often. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than boys. This means they are less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They may use coping techniques that include concealing their face with makeup or acting out to disguise their feelings and behaviors.

adhd test for women  of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopause or perimenopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. They may also find it harder to keep track of their activities and adhere to routines. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.

While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait for assessments is causing stress and frustration for those who haven't been successful in getting the assistance they require. This is particularly true for those on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD assessments. It can take years to get an appointment.

The first step to getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. You must inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and will request a referral. You must also state why you believe you have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP and help speed up the process. You can also try to obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.

2. Talk to your doctor

Women with ADHD can be harder to diagnose than men, partly because the signs aren't so obvious, particularly when they are adults. They might develop strategies to conceal their issues which can be very damaging. Some of them include excessive drinking smoking cannabis, or trying to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be involved in criminal activities, gangs, and promiscuity. rates of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.

GPs will take any report of ADHD seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is best suited to you.  add test for women  is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.

The waiting times for these services can be lengthy and in some instances it is difficult to get referrals because the issue isn't taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the person's difficulties are due to other causes (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.

If you've been recommended to a therapist, you must choose a therapist who understands the condition, and is willing to work with your ADHD issues. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.

Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. The use of medication and diet changes can help reduce your symptoms. For instance, a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less noticeable. On the other side, a diet that is high in sugar and junk foods can worsen the symptoms.

It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation could be beneficial for you, as they are extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these methods with a certified instructor. You can find a teacher near you using the NHS service locator.

3. Find a support group

Women with ADHD might exhibit more subtle symptoms than males. This is probably due to the fact that females don't display as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. However, this isn't to suggest that they don't have any signs. In fact, they may have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to detect. In addition, they could have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to tensions in relationships, especially with men.

Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at school and work. They can have trouble following directions and juggling deadlines and completing commitments. They may also have difficulty accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback at work. These challenges can lead to burnout which could negatively impact their job and career.

The most frequent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD among women include difficulties paying attention, forgetting things easily, and poor organisation. They can also be prone to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They may also have trouble expressing their emotions, and are often misunderstood. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as a sudden rage or anger.

Despite these difficulties there are many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program that is designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are available online and in person. These groups are an excellent way to receive advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well as how to manage your condition.

If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and achievements. The details of the meeting are available on their Facebook page or on their website.  adhd symptoms women  can also reach them with any questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend the next event.

4. Exercise

Women who suffer from ADHD may face particular difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings and anger.

Exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and decreasing stress. In addition, it helps to reduce stress and increase focus and attention. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your day.

Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social setting take part in a group class or gym. Remember that although exercise can alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD however, it will not solve them all on its own - it is best to combine it with other symptom-management strategies. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.