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ADHD in Women and Girls Girls and women often go undiagnosed for ADHD since symptoms are more apparent in females. They can also be mistaken for other disorders and this can delay the diagnosis. Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females with ADHD need to be investigated and treated as needed. The transitional phases of pregnancy and adolescence may reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in women. 1. Get a diagnosis ADHD is a difficult condition to diagnose particularly for women. Many of the symptoms are different for women. While men are more active and impulsive, women often struggle to concentrate or sit still. They may be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men So doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as quickly. Girls can also hide symptoms better than boys. This means they are less likely to be noticed by parents or teachers. They might resort to coping strategies, such as wearing make-up or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviors. The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopause or perimenopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can cause them to be more prone to mood swings. They may also have difficulty to keep track of their activities and adhere to routines. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities. Waiting times for assessments can cause stress and anger to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they require. This is particularly applicable to those who are on the NHS as there are only a few doctors who can perform ADHD tests. It can take years to secure an appointment. The first step towards getting a diagnosis is to see your GP. You should tell your GP you believe you may be suffering from ADHD. They will take this seriously and will request an appointment. You must also state why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download the letter of support from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to accelerate the process. You may also get an assessment through private healthcare. 2. Talk to your doctor Women suffering from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly when they are adults aren't always evident. adhd symptoms in adult women may develop compensatory strategies to cover up their problems, and these can be very damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support by engaging in high-risk activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities are just a few examples of high-risk actions. Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to be involved in an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted illnesses and teens who are unplanned and have early pregnancies. Doctors take reports of ADHD very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will refer you to the appropriate service for you. This typically a community mental health clinic or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service. The wait times for these services are long and in some cases it can be difficult to refer someone because of the lack of seriousness with which the problem is treated. This could be because the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or they believe that the person's problems are caused by something else (like anxiety, depression or substance misuse) and not by their ADHD symptoms. It is important that you choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is willing to work alongside your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly helpful for those suffering from ADHD. Managing ADHD symptoms is a continuous process. The use of medication and diet changes can help to reduce the symptoms. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. On the other hand, a diet high in junk food and sugar can worsen the symptoms. You should also inquire with your GP whether mindfulness-based methods like meditation might be beneficial to you. They are helpful in helping those with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a certified instructor. You can find a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator. 3. Find a support group Women who suffer from ADHD typically have less visible symptoms than those with ADHD. This could be because females don't exhibit as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult to diagnose them. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any signs. In fact, they could be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognize. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in broken relationships or even breakups particularly with males. Women who have inattentive ADHD may be more likely to struggle with work and school. They can have trouble adhering to instructions and juggling deadlines and meeting commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead to burnout which can negatively impact their career and job performance. Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted and aren't organized. They may also be susceptible to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. They may also have trouble in expressing their emotions and are often misinterpreted. For instance mood swings can be seen as an expression of anger or frustration. Despite these challenges there are plenty of resources available 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 accessible on the internet and in person. These groups are an excellent way to seek advice on diagnosis routes for children and adults, as well how to manage your condition. There are many adult ADHD support groups across 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 share their challenges, successes and goals. You can find the information on the meeting on their website or Facebook page. You can also contact them with questions in the event that you'd like to join the next event. 4. Exercise Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues like mood swings and irritation. Exercise can reduce the symptoms by releasing feel good hormones and reducing stress. Additionally, it can help control excess energy and improve focus and attention. Therefore, you should try to include a regular workout routine into your daily. You can exercise at home or, if you'd like to be social, join a group or gym. Exercise can alleviate some ADHD symptoms but it can't eliminate the symptoms. It is best to combine it with other strategies to treat symptoms. You should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.