How To Outsmart Your Boss On ADHD Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as evident. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other disorders and delay the diagnosis.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be explored and treated in the appropriate way. The transitional phases of adolescence and pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD symptoms in certain women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can be hard to identify in adulthood, especially for women. The symptoms are different for women. For instance, while men tend to have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, many women have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. They may be misdiagnosed as having other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD is more frequently seen in boys and men and doctors may not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females often don't get referred as quickly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men and are less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies like concealing their face with makeup or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviors.
Symptoms of ADHD are more severe when women experience perimenopausal or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It may also be difficult to follow routines and stay on top of their tasks. This can impact how they manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
While awareness of ADHD has risen due to prominent personalities such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, long wait times for tests are causing stress and frustration for those who aren't in a position to get the help they need. This can be particularly true for those who are on the NHS, as there is a limited number of doctors who can perform ADHD assessments and it can take years to secure an appointment.
The first step in getting an assessment is to see your GP. It is essential to tell your GP that you believe you may have ADHD because they will need to be attentive and ask for an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a supportive letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to help speed up the process. You may also obtain an evaluation from private healthcare.
2. Speak with your doctor
Women who suffer from ADHD are more difficult to diagnose than men, partly because the signs aren't as evident, especially as an adult. These strategies can be harmful since they can try to conceal their issues. This includes drinking heavily or smoking cannabis, as well as seeking to build social support through high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have more sexually transmitted diseases, teens, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.
The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. Then, they will direct you to the most appropriate service for your needs. 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 be referred because of the lack of seriousness with which the problem is dealt with. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of adult ADHD or believes that the person's issues are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety or abuse of substances) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work alongside your ADHD issues. Some therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. The use of medication and diet changes can help reduce your symptoms. A diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
It's also worth talking with your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be useful for you as they can be extremely effective in helping people suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a certified instructor. The NHS service locator can help you find an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD may have less obvious symptoms than men. This could be because females don't have as many hyperactive and impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this does not mean they do not have symptoms. In fact, they may be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are more difficult to recognise. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to ruptures or broken relationships particularly with males.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to have problems at school and at work. They may have trouble following instructions, meeting deadlines, and keeping the track of their commitments. They may also find it difficult to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout which can negatively impact their career and job performance.
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of adult ADHD in women include difficulty paying attention, forgetting things easily, and poor organisation. They are also susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. They may also have difficulties in expressing their emotions and are often misunderstood. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as a sudden outburst anger or frustration.
Despite these difficulties, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups are available on the internet and in person. They are an excellent way to receive guidance on diagnosis routes for adults and children, as well as how to manage your condition.
If you're looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are several in the UK. add women , for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their challenges, goals and successes. The information about the meeting can be found on their Facebook page or on their website. You can reach them with any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event.
4. Exercise
Women who suffer from ADHD may face particular challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can cause or worsen emotional issues such as mood swings, and irritability.
Exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions by releasing positive hormones and reducing stress. Plus, it can help to reduce stress and increase concentration and focus. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular fitness routine into your daily.
Exercise at home or, if your goal is to socialize take part in a group or join a gym. Remember that although exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD however, it will not fix them completely on its own. It is best to combine it with other symptom-management strategies. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.