ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still not properly diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This results in a significant cost to both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to identify due to the fact that they look different from those of men. This can also be worsened by hormonal changes, such as the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
Signs and symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD may have a difficult to tell their medical professionals that they have symptoms of the condition. They might be embarrassed to ask for help, and are afraid that their doctor won't be able to take it seriously. Women may find it difficult to find health professionals who understand their condition and how it impacts them as they grow older.
Adults with ADHD are typically marked by impulsivity, apathy, and difficulty staying focused. Women are more likely to be affected by the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties with planning, organisation, forgetfulness or being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, being distracted easily and forgetting what you spoke about during an interaction.
Women also have a tendency to struggle to control their emotions and impulses, making them more likely to shout in anger, become wildly emotional, and struggle with social interactions. They may have poor handwriting or struggle with math and spelling skills. They may also have difficulty adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy choices for their diet.
It's also harder to spot ADHD symptoms in women than it is in men because of gender-based stereotypes about sex and behaviour. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulsive ADHD symptoms might have more trouble being recognised as having the disorder, particularly at school, where they can are misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Additionally, many women with ADHD experience worsening symptoms during menopausal or perimenopausal periods. This is because as women start to go through menopausal symptoms, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can exacerbate the symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
It can also be beneficial for women to talk about their issues with colleagues or teachers to learn what accommodations they may be able to request to enhance their performance at work or in school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their boss or professor, some do so with ease and find that their schools and workplaces are more than willing to make reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It's important that you see your GP when you suspect that you have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or diagnose you based on the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include a look at your symptoms, your medical history as well as any problems could have been caused by them.
Many healthcare professionals fail to know how ADHD manifests in women. This can lead to delays in the diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at various times throughout the woman's life, based on hormonal changes. These include during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the period leading up to menopausal) and menopausal symptoms itself.
The symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships as well as school and work. In adulthood, this can be a problem keeping a job, or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of misuse depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances as well as making decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
Contact your employer if you are having difficulty focusing or paying close attention at work. You might be able to get help by taking more breaks or working from home at times. You can also ask about support services such as Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological disorder Your symptoms aren't due to being lazy or having low self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and reach your goals. It's just going to take a bit more planning and effort.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact private organisations that offer ADHD assessments. You may be charged a fee but you will be assessed by a qualified professional. They can offer assistance and advice on the benefits you're entitled to, how to access solutions and dealing with workplace issues. If you're working in a workplace, they can help you determine whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance and Access to Work. This could provide funds to assist with things like specialised equipment or adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD might be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants, though it is crucial to discuss the possible side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to check the progress of your child or yourself and ensure that the medication is effective.
Adults who suffer from ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulties staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms may change over time and are often affected by life events, such as menopausal, pregnancy, and hormonal changes.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for many people with ADHD. Changes in the way you think and behave can improve your symptoms and boost self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be done in a group or one-on-one with a Therapist. Other methods that some find beneficial are following a balanced diet, trying to stay away from caffeine-rich or sugary foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. It is essential to talk with your physician before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Women and girls with ADHD need to seek help from family, friends, and colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women with similar conditions and share experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a combination treatment method, such as behavioral therapy and medication. Utilizing tools for organisation like planners can be helpful in managing their day-today lives and keeping track of deadlines. A balanced diet and physical activity are important for well-being and health.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in modern society. These are often due to the pressures of modern life like being a good partner or parent, managing a household and being productive at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and increase the risk of other mental health conditions developing, such as anxiety or depression.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD feel not understood. They may exhibit emotions such as anger and mood swings, as well as a lack in self-esteem. adhd in adult women symptoms of ADHD can also become worse when there are hormonal changes, like during menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues like depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms present and be more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of help available to women and girls with ADHD. This includes a variety of online support groups, resources, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that features useful information, events and support groups. This includes peer support groups and a forum where people can ask questions.
If a person is suffering from significant ADHD issues, they should contact their GP for an assessment. The doctor will be able to direct them to the appropriate service which could be a mental health service or a specialist neurodevelopmental service. However, it is important to note that due to the absence of awareness about clinical issues and long waiting times, some people are unable to be assessed. It may be that their problems may be due to another issue, like a addiction or mental illness, and not ADHD.
It's also worth noting that ADHD can be considered an "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 a flexible schedule or additional support and training at work.
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