ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still not properly diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is at a huge cost to individuals and the economy.
These symptoms are more difficult to recognize in females since they manifest differently than men. It can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed asking for help, and may be worried that their health care provider will not be able to take them seriously. Women also face difficulties finding treatment providers that understand the condition and how it affects women as they age.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are typically identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to have the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties in planning, organisation and forgetfulness, or missing appointments, not completing tasks, being distracted easily, and not remembering what you said in an interaction.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be more prone to anger-related outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have issues with social relationships. They might struggle with handwriting or 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 more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms for women than in men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sexuality and behavior. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD symptoms might be more difficult to identify as having the disorder, especially in schools, where they frequently are misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Many women with ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal. As women transition into menopausal and produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and talk about them with their doctor or specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their issues with colleagues or teachers to discover what accommodations they might be able to request to improve their performance at work or in school. Many people with ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their boss or professor however, some have found success in doing so and finding that their workplaces and school are more than happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD, it's important to consult your GP. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or diagnose you based on the criteria established 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 they may have caused.
Women are more difficult to diagnose than men because many healthcare professionals don't recognize the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can result in delays in diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes that occur in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. These include pregnancy, menstruation (the menopausal cycle) menopausal, perimenopausal, and menopause.
The signs of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. In adulthood, this can result in having difficulty keeping a job, or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of abuse depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also create difficulties with managing finances, making decisions and managing multiple priorities.
If you are having trouble concentrating or paying attention at work, speak to your employer. There may be ways to help, such as giving you more breaks or allowing you to work at home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial support.
Also, remember that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Recommended Resource site are not due to laziness or low self-esteem. You can still achieve your goals and be successful. It might just take some extra effort and planning.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact a private organization that provides ADHD tests. They may charge a fee however, you'll be inspected by a certified professional. They can provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, finding solutions and dealing with workplace issues. They can also advise you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can help pay for things like specialized equipment and modifications at the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD may be prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to implementing treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to track the development of your child or yourself and make sure that the medication is working.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD in adults are inattention, difficulty completing tasks, impulsive behaviour poor organisational skills, and difficulties staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can change with time and are usually affected by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy and menopausal.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for a large number of people suffering from ADHD. Changes in the way you think and behave can reduce the symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. Women and girls who have ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT) which is a form of talking therapy that helps to change the negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in a group or individually with an Therapist. Other therapies that many find beneficial are following a balanced diet, trying to avoid sugary or caffeine-rich food items, and doing plenty of exercise. But it is important to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women with ADHD to receive support from their family, friends and colleagues. They can also join a support group in order to meet other women who have the same disorder and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD might also benefit from a mix treatment method, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Organising their daily lives and keeping track deadlines with the help of planners is a great way to manage your day-to-day routine. A balanced diet and physical exercise are essential for health and well-being.
In modern society, many women and girls with ADHD are in a constant state of stress and pressure. This can be due to the pressures of modern society, such as being a good partner or parent or managing a household, as well as being productive at work. This could make it harder to cope with ADHD and increase the risk that other mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, will develop.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They may exhibit emotions such as anger and mood fluctuations, as well as an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of ADHD may also get worse during times of hormonal change, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Many people with ADHD also have other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way in which the symptoms manifest and may be more difficult to manage.
There is a lot of help for girls and women who suffer from ADHD. This includes a range of online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website includes a section dedicated to women and girls, which includes useful information and events. There are peer support groups and a forum for people to ask questions.
If a person is suffering from significant ADHD difficulties, they should contact their GP to have an assessment. The GP will be able to refer them to the appropriate service, which could be a local mental health clinic or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to keep in mind that some people have difficulty being admitted to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting times. It could be that their difficulties may be due to another issue, such as addiction or mental illness and not ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if someone's ADHD significantly impacts their work and performance, it could be deemed a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have the legal right to make reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could be a flexible working schedule, additional training or assistance at work.
At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an internal culture of wellbeing and assistance for their employees. We offer a range of occupational health and wellbeing interventions including e-learning modules, mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. Contact us today to find out more about our support for your business.