15 Best ADHD Women UK Bloggers You Should Follow
ADHD in Women and Girls
Girls and women are often undiagnosed for ADHD since symptoms are more apparent in females. It is possible to misdiagnose them as other disorders which may delay the diagnosis.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD should be investigated and addressed as appropriate. 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 identify in adulthood, particularly for women. This is because a lot of the symptoms are different for females. For instance, while males tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, a lot of women have trouble being able to concentrate or sit still. As a result, they could be misdiagnosed as having other mental health problems such as depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it's more prevalent in males and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis because women aren't referred as quickly. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than males, making them less likely to be recognized by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies, such as wearing make-up or acting out to hide their emotions and behavior.
The symptoms of ADHD can get worse when women experience perimenopausal or menopausal. This is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. It can also be difficult to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their home, work and other responsibilities.
Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and frustration to those who aren't able to receive the assistance they require. This is especially relevant for those on the NHS and have a small number of doctors who perform adhd symptoms women assessments. It can take years to obtain an appointment.
The first step to get a diagnosis is seeing your GP. It is essential to inform your GP that you believe you might be suffering from adhd test for adult women since they will have to take this seriously and ask for a referral. You must also provide the reasons you believe you may be suffering from adhd in women diagnosis (read this blog post from Sciencewiki). You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can aid in speeding up the process. You may also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk with your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify, in part because their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood aren't always evident. These strategies can be harmful, since they can try to conceal their issues. These include drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends through high-risk activities (e.g. prostitution, gangs and other criminal activities). Girls who suffer from adhd test for adult women are also more likely to experience a higher rate of sexually transmitted diseases and teens who are unplanned and have early pregnancy.
GPs take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will inquire about your symptoms. Then they will recommend the most appropriate service for you - this usually is a mental health service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
The wait times for these services are 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 is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.
It is essential to choose a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD issues. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD.
Controlling ADHD symptoms is a long-term process. Medication and dietary changes may aid in reducing your add symptoms in adult women. For example, eating an a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. A diet rich in sugars and junk foods can exacerbate these symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based methods such as meditation could be beneficial to you, as they are extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. You can learn these techniques by a trained instructor. The NHS service locator will help you locate an NHS provider close to you.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD might exhibit more subtle symptoms than males. This could be due to the fact that females don't have as many symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to be diagnosed. This does not mean that they are not suffering from symptoms. In fact, they could have inattentive ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognize. In addition, they could have a hard time managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in tensions in relationships, especially with males.
Women who have inattentive ADHD are more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have difficulty following directions in completing deadlines and keeping on top of their commitments. They may also have a hard time accepting constructive criticism or receiving positive feedback at work. These challenges can lead to burnout which could have a negative impact on their performance at work and their professional career.
Women with adult ADHD often have trouble paying attention, forgetting easily and aren't organized. They could also be susceptible to depression and self-doubt. Additionally, they can have trouble with their emotions and are frequently misunderstood by others. For instance mood swings could be seen as an expression of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are still many options for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can be found online or in person. They are an excellent way to receive information on the diagnosis process for children and adults, as well as how to manage your illness.
There are numerous adult ADHD support groups in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example, meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe and secure environment for adults with ADHD who want to discuss their struggles, goals and achievements. You can find the meeting details on their website or their Facebook page. You can also contact them with any questions you may have if you'd like to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD have unique challenges that make it harder to manage their symptoms, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms like mood fluctuation and irritability.
Exercise can ease these symptoms, by release of feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. It can also help to control excess energy, increase focus and concentration. So, try to include a regular workout routine into your daily.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you want to socialize take part in a group or gym. Exercise can alleviate certain ADHD symptoms, but it will not cure the symptoms. It should be incorporated with other strategies to manage symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.