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ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD is often not properly diagnosed in girls and women because the signs aren't as obvious. They can also be misdiagnosed as other conditions and delay referral.

It is essential to investigate and address the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females with ADHD. Transitional periods such as adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD isn't easy to identify in adulthood, especially for women. This is because a lot of the symptoms are different in females. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, females often have difficulty concentrating or sitting still. This means that they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.


ADHD is also more often seen in boys and men, so doctors might not be knowledgeable about the condition. This can cause delays in diagnosis because females are not referred to doctors as quickly. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than males which makes them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping strategies, such as concealing their appearance with makeup or acting out to disguise their behaviour and feelings.

The symptoms of ADHD are more severe as women enter perimenopausal or menopause. This is because they can be affected by hormonal changes that cause mood swings. It may also be difficult to follow routines and stay on top of their tasks. This can affect their ability to manage their work, home and other obligations.

While awareness of ADHD has risen due to celebrities like Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha talking openly about their diagnosis, the long wait times for assessments are frustrating and stressful for people who haven't been in a position to get the help they need. This is especially true for those who are on the NHS since there are a limited number of doctors that can perform ADHD assessments and it can take years to get an appointment.

The first step towards getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. You must inform your GP that you think you have ADHD. They will consider this a serious matter and ask for an appointment. You should also explain why you believe you might have ADHD. You can download a help letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP, which can assist in the speedy process. You can also try to get an assessment via the private healthcare route.

2. Talk with your doctor

Women with ADHD are more difficult to identify due to the fact that their symptoms, especially when they reach adulthood, may not be as evident. These strategies can be harmful, as they may try to conceal their issues. Some of these include excessive drinking, smoking cannabis and trying to build social support by engaging in risky activities (e.g. Prostitution, gangs, and criminal activity are all examples of high-risk actions. 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 very serious and will inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is the most appropriate for you. This is usually a Community Mental Health Service or a 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 which the problem is treated. This could be due to the fact that the GP is not aware of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's problems are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) instead of ADHD symptoms.

It is crucial to select a therapist with ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD issues. Some therapists specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is especially beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.

The management of ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms and diet changes can make a difference too. For instance, a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits can make the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity less apparent. On the other the other hand, a diet rich in sugar and junk food can worsen the symptoms.

It is also advisable to ask your GP to determine if mindfulness-based practices like meditation might be helpful for you. They can be extremely useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified teacher. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.

3. Find a support group

Women who suffer from ADHD may have less obvious symptoms than men. This is likely due to the fact that females don't have as many hyperactive, impulsive symptoms as their male counterparts. This makes it more difficult for them to get diagnosed. However, this isn't to suggest that they don't have any signs. In fact, they could be afflicted with inattention ADHD symptoms that are harder to recognise. In addition, they can struggle with managing their emotions and relationships. This can result in strained or dissolved relationships particularly with men.

Women who have inattentive ADHD may be more likely to struggle with work and school. They may have difficulty adhering to instructions and keeping track of deadlines and completing 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 negatively impact their career and job performance.

Women who suffer from adult ADHD frequently have difficulty keeping track of their attention, are easily distracted, and are not well organized. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, they can struggle with their emotions and are frequently not understood by others. For instance, changes in mood can be misinterpreted as sudden eruption of anger or frustration.

Despite these issues there are many resources for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the best options is an intervention program designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups can be found online and in person. These groups are an excellent way to receive advice on diagnostic methods for children and adults, as well how to manage your illness.

If adult adhd in women looking for an adult ADHD support group, there are many in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example is a weekly meeting at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe space for adults with ADHD to talk about their struggles, successes and goals. You can find the meeting details on their website or Facebook page. You can also contact them with any questions you may have in the event that you'd like to join the next event.

4. Exercise

Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles and menopause. These hormonal changes may trigger or exacerbate emotional problems such as mood swings, and anger.

Exercise can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing happy hormones and decreasing stress. Plus, it can help control excess energy and improve focus and attention. So, try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your day.

Try exercising at your home, or if prefer a social atmosphere you can join a class or a gym. Just remember, that while exercising can help alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD however, it will not fix them completely by itself - it must be combined with other strategies for managing symptoms. Ideally, you should aim to complete 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout each week.

Member since: Wednesday, October 9, 2024

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