20 Quotes That Will Help You Understand ADHD Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
Women and girls often go not being diagnosed with ADHD since symptoms are more obvious in females. They may also be mistaken for other conditions and this can delay the diagnosis.
It is essential to investigate and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among women suffering from ADHD. Transitional periods such as pregnancy or adolescence can reveal and worsen ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly in women. Many of the symptoms are different for women. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, women often struggle to concentrate or sit still. As a result, they may be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
Doctors may not be well-versed with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as often. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than males and are less likely to be observed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out to hide their behavior and emotions.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopause or perimenopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more prone to mood swings. They may be unable to keep track of things and follow routines. This can affect how well they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
Waiting times for assessments can be stressful and cause frustration for those who are unable to receive the help they require. add symptoms in women is especially relevant for those on the NHS and have only a handful of doctors who can carry out ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step to get an assessment is to see your GP. It is important to inform your GP you believe you may have ADHD. They will be able to take this seriously and request a referral. You must also state why you believe you 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. Alternatively, you can try to get an assessment through the private healthcare route.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to recognize than men, mainly because the symptoms are not as evident, especially when they are adults. They might develop strategies to hide their problems and they could be detrimental to their health. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as trying to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk activities. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancy.
The GPs will take any 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.
The waiting times for these services are long and, in some instances it can be difficult to get referred because of the lack of seriousness how the issue is addressed. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the person's problems are due to other causes (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) instead of ADHD symptoms.
If you've been recommended, it is important to choose a therapist who understands the condition, and is willing to tackle your ADHD problems. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a lifelong process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication and diet changes can help reduce your symptoms. For instance, an a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can make your symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less noticeable. A diet that is high in sugars and junk foods can cause these symptoms to worsen.
It is also worth speaking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation could be useful for you as they are extremely effective in helping people with ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified instructor. The NHS service locator will help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women who suffer from ADHD might exhibit less apparent symptoms than men. This could be because females don't exhibit as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. But, that's not to say that they aren't suffering from any signs. In reality, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to recognize. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained relationships, particularly with males.
Women who suffer from inattention ADHD are more likely to have difficulties with school and work. They may have difficulty following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping on top of commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout, which can have a negative impact on their job performance and their professional career.
The most frequent symptoms and signs of ADHD for women are difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting things and having a poor organization. They may also be prone depression and self-doubt. Additionally, they can be troubled by their emotions and are frequently not understood by others. For adhd in women , changes in mood can be misinterpreted as sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties There are still plenty of resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is a support program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are accessible online and in person. They are a great way to get guidance on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as tips on how to manage your illness.
There are a variety of adult ADHD support groups in the UK. For example the Bristol Collective meets every Wednesday at The Hideout in St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults suffering from ADHD to share their struggles, successes and goals. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. You can reach them with any questions or wish to attend an scheduled event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes may cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings, and irritability.
Exercise can reduce these symptoms, producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It can also help to manage excess energy, and increase focus and concentration. Make sure to incorporate a regular exercise routine in your day.
You can exercise at home or, if you want to be social, join a group or join a gym. Exercise can ease some ADHD symptoms, but it will not eliminate the symptoms. It should be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.