Why No One Cares About ADHD Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go undiagnosed for ADHD as symptoms are less obvious in females. They may also be mistaken for other conditions and this can delay the diagnosis.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD should be explored and treated in the appropriate way. The transitional phases of pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly in women. This is because many of the symptoms differ for females. While men are more hyperactive and impulsive, women typically have trouble concentrating or sitting still. As a result, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it is more prevalent in males and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis since females aren't often referred to as frequently. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their face with makeup or acting out to hide their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women experience perimenopausal or menopause. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that can make them more susceptible to mood swings. They may also find it harder to keep track of their activities and adhere to routines. This can impact their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and frustration for those who are unable to get the help they require. This can be particularly true for those who are on the NHS, as there is only a handful of doctors who conduct ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is crucial to tell your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD because they will need to take it seriously and request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to help speed up the process. You could also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are often harder to diagnose than men, in part because the signs aren't so obvious, particularly as an adult. They may develop compensatory strategies to conceal their issues, and these can be extremely damaging. A few of these include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and trying to create social connections by engaging in risky activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls with ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
Doctors will take any complaint of ADHD seriously and will ask you about your symptoms. They will then direct you to a program that is best suited to you. This is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for the services may be long In some instances, it is difficult to get referred because the problem is not taken seriously enough. This could be because the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD, or because they believe that the person's problems are caused by other factors (like depression, anxiety or substance misuse) and not caused by their ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to collaborate with your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms requires a lifelong commitment. Treatment and dietary changes can aid in reducing your symptoms. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. A diet that is high in sugars and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices like meditation might be beneficial to you. They can be extremely helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. adult add women can be taught to you by a qualified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might have less apparent symptoms than men. This could be due to the fact that females don't display as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This can make it difficult to diagnose them. However, adhd in women adult is not to say that they aren't suffering from any signs. They might have ADHD symptoms that are harder to spot, like inattentive ADHD. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause difficult relationships, especially with males.
Women who have inattentive ADHD may be more likely to have difficulties at school and work. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions and juggling deadlines and keeping promises. They might be unable to accepting constructive criticism or being given positive feedback from their workplace. These issues can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and their career.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty paying attention, forgetting easily, and are not well organized. They could also be susceptible to self-doubt and depression. Additionally, they can be troubled by their emotions and are often thought of as a victim by other people. For example mood swings could be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these challenges there are many resources for adults with ADHD. One of the best is a support group specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are offered both online and in person. They are great ways to get advice on diagnosis routes for adults and children, and also how to manage your illness.
If you're seeking 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 offer a safe place for adults suffering from ADHD to talk about their challenges, achievements and hopes. The meeting details are available on their Facebook page or website. Contact them if you have any questions or wish to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings and anger.
Exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help to reduce excess energy and increase focus and improve attention. Try to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your day.
Do your exercise at home, or, if your goal is to be social take part in a group or gym. Exercise can ease some ADHD symptoms but it can't eliminate the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. The ideal goal is to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout every week.