ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not being diagnosed in girls and women. This comes at a high cost to both the individual and the economy.
The symptoms can be difficult to identify in females since they manifest differently from males. This can be further aggravated by hormonal changes like the menstrual period, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed about seeking help and worry that their health care provider will not be able to take them seriously. Some women also have trouble finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulty paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted, and the tendency to be impulsive. Women are more likely to have the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattention-related symptoms include issues with organisation and planning and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not completing tasks, being easily distracted or not remembering what was said during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be susceptible to anger outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have issues with social relationships. They may struggle with math or spelling. They may also have difficulty keeping up with their exercise routines or making healthy food choices.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sexuality and behavior, it's more difficult for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could have more trouble being recognised as having the disorder, especially in school, where they can are misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
simply click for source with ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopause. This is because as women start to go through menopause, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can worsen the symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to monitor their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor or a specialist.
It can also be beneficial for women to talk about their issues with colleagues or teachers to find out what accommodations they might be able to request to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people suffering from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their professor or boss however, some have found success in doing this and discovering that their workplaces and schools are happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD is a must to consult your GP. Your doctor can refer to a specialist, or diagnose you based on the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include a review of your symptoms, your medical history and any issues could have been caused by them.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than males because many healthcare professionals don't recognise the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can cause delays in diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD can get worse depending on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. These include during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the run-up to menopause), and the menopause itself.
ADHD symptoms can affect work, school, and relationships. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs, and be at risk for substance abuse, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges in managing finances, making decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
If you are having trouble concentrating or paying attention at work, talk to your employer. You may be able to get help by taking more breaks or working from home for a few hours. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can provide financial and practical assistance.
It is important to remember that ADHD is a neurological condition. The symptoms you experience are not caused by insecurity or lack of self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and reach your goals. It's going to take a bit more planning and effort.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD You can learn more about it on the NHS website. You can also contact an organization that is private and offers ADHD assessments. They may charge an amount however, you'll be evaluated by a trained professional. They can also offer advice and assistance in claiming benefits, seeking solutions to workplace issues. They can also tell you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can offer money to help with things such as specific equipment or adaptations for the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD might be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP visits are advised to track your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is working properly.
Adults with ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, poor organization, impulsive behavior, and difficulty staying on task or recollecting information. The symptoms can change over time, and are often affected by life events like menopausal or pregnancy-related hormonal changes.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a very effective treatment. By changing the way you act and think, you can reduce your symptoms as well as increase your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) which is a kind of therapy for talking that helps you to alter negative patterns of thought and behaviour.
CBT can be conducted in a group or one-on-one with a therapy. Other methods that some find helpful are eating a healthy diet, trying to stay away from caffeine-rich or sugary foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. It is crucial to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Girls and women with ADHD should seek support from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can also join a support group in order to meet other women who have similar conditions and share experiences.
Women with ADHD are also able to benefit from a mixture of treatment methods, such as medication and behavioural therapy. Using organisation tools like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. full report balanced diet and regular physical exercise are essential for well-being and health.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in modern society. signs and symptoms of adhd in women are often related to the expectations of being a caring parent or partner, running a household and doing well at work. This can increase the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and increase the risk of mental health issues being developed, including depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel misunderstood by people around them. They may display emotions such as anger and mood swings, as well as an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of ADHD may also get worse during times of hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Additionally, many people with ADHD have co-existing mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way symptoms are perceived and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of help available to women and girls with ADHD. This includes a range of online resources, support groups and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women with useful information, events and support groups. This includes peer support groups and a forum where users can ask questions.
If an employee is suffering from significant difficulties with their ADHD or other ADHD-related issues, they should speak to their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor will be able to send them to the most appropriate service, which could be a local mental health facility or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to be aware that due to a lack of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some people have difficulty getting assessed. This might be because their challenges are thought to be due to another issue, such as mental health issues or addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also important to know that ADHD is to be a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a significant impact on a person's employment. They are entitled to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could include an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
Optima Health can help businesses develop an internal culture that promotes wellbeing and encourages their employees. We offer a range of occupational health and wellbeing interventions, including e-learning modules coaching programmes and mindfulness workshops. If you'd like to learn more about how we can support your business, get in touch today.