10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden That'll Help You With ADHD Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the signs aren't as evident. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other disorders which may delay the diagnosis.
It is essential to investigate and address the symptoms of depression, anxiety and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD. Periods of transition such as pregnancy and adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be difficult to recognize in adulthood, especially for women. A lot of the symptoms are different for women. While men are more active and impulsive, females often struggle to concentrate or sit still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
ADHD is more frequently observed in men and boys So doctors may not be aware of the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, as females are not referred to doctors as often. Girls are also able to hide their symptoms better than males. This means they are less likely to get noticed by teachers or parents. They might use strategies to cope, like hiding behind makeup or acting out to cover up their actions and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe as women enter perimenopausal or menopause. This is due to the fact that they experience hormonal fluctuations that cause them to be more susceptible to mood swings. It could also be challenging for them to follow routines and stay on top of their tasks. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other obligations.
While awareness of ADHD has soared thanks to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait times for assessments are frustrating and stressful for those who aren't successful in getting the help they need. This is particularly the case for those on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors that can carry out ADHD assessments. It can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in receiving a diagnosis is to visit your GP. You should tell your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and request an appointment. You should also explain the reasons behind why you think you may be suffering from ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can assist in the speedy process. Alternately, you can consider obtaining an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly as they age, may not be as obvious. These strategies can be harmful because they might try to conceal their issues. Some of these include drinking excessively smoking cannabis, or trying to gain social support by participating in high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls with ADHD can also have increased rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
GPs will take any report of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. Then they will refer you to the most appropriate service for you - this is usually a community mental health clinic or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The waiting times for these services can be long and, in some instances it can be difficult to get referred due to the lack of seriousness with which the problem is dealt with. This could be due to the fact that the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or they believe that the person's problems are due to other factors (like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances) and not by their ADHD symptoms.
It is important that you choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD challenges. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for people with ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication and diet changes can help reduce your symptoms. For instance, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. On the other side, a diet that is high in junk food and sugar can exacerbate these symptoms.
You should also inquire with your GP whether mindfulness-based methods, such as meditation, could be beneficial for you. They are helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified instructor. The NHS service locator can help you locate the nearest provider.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD often find their symptoms less obvious than males. This is likely because females don't have as many impulsive and hyperactive symptoms. This makes it more difficult to diagnose them. This doesn't mean they do not have symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are difficult to spot, like inattentive ADHD. adhd symptoms in women may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in difficult relationships, especially with males.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD might be more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have difficulty following instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping on top of commitments. They might also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout that can negatively impact their job and career.
The most frequent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things and a lack of organization. They are also susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, they can be troubled by their emotions and are often thought of as a victim by other people. For example, mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are a lot of resources available to adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program specifically designed for people with ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. They are great ways to get advice on diagnosis routes for both adults and children as well as how to manage your condition.
If you're seeking an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. For instance the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults suffering from ADHD to share their struggles, successes and goals. The meeting details can be found on their Facebook page or website. You can also contact them with any questions in the event that you'd like to join a future event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD have unique difficulties that make it difficult to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, release of feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help manage excess energy, and increase focus and concentration. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your day.
Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a more social environment, join a group class or a gym. Exercise can ease certain ADHD symptoms but it can't eliminate the symptoms. It should be incorporated with other strategies to manage symptoms. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout per week.