ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still not properly diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to individuals and the economy.
These symptoms are more difficult to recognize for females due to the fact that they appear differently from men. This can be further aggravated by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have trouble telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed to ask for help, and they fear that their doctor won't be able to take it seriously. Some women have difficulty finding treatment providers who understand the condition and how it affects them as an adult woman.
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted and an impulsive nature. Women are more susceptible to the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattention symptoms may include issues with organisation and planning, being forgetful or missing appointments, not completing tasks, being easily distracted or not remembering what was said in conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be susceptible to anger outbursts, become overly emotional and have issues with social interactions. They may have difficulty with spelling or math. They might also have difficulty to maintain a consistent routine of exercise or make healthy choices for their diet.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sexuality and behavior, it's difficult for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may be more difficult to be identified, especially at school where they are often mistakenly diagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Additionally that, many women suffering from ADHD have worsening symptoms in perimenopause and menopause. As women enter menopause and produce less estrogen. This can exacerbate symptoms. This is why it is crucial for women to monitor their symptoms and talk about them with their doctor or a specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their issues with colleagues or teachers to learn what accommodations they might be able to request to enhance their performance at work or in school. Many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their professor or boss however some have had success in doing this and discovering that their workplaces and school are more than happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
It's important that you see your GP when you suspect that you may have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or give you an diagnosis based on criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include a look at the symptoms you are experiencing, your history as well as any problems could have been caused by them.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than males as a lot of healthcare professionals don't recognise the way ADHD manifests in females. This can lead to delays in getting diagnosed and receiving treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. These include pregnancy, menstruation (the menopausal cycle), perimenopause, and menopausal.
The symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships at work, school and social. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs and are at risk of depression, substance abuse anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances as well as making decisions and managing multiple priorities.
Contact your employer if you are having difficulty focusing or focusing on work. There are ways to help, like providing you with more breaks or permitting you to work from home for a few hours. You can also ask about support services such as Access to Work, which can provide financial and practical support.
It is important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Your symptoms are not caused by laziness or low self-esteem. You can still meet your goals and succeed. It may just require some more effort and planning.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD You can learn more about it on the NHS website. You can also reach out to a private organization that provides ADHD assessments. You could be charged a fee but you will be evaluated by a qualified professional. They also provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, finding solutions to workplace issues. They can also advise you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can offer money to help with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are able to receive medication to treat their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to implementing treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also advised to track your child's progress and ensure that the medication is working well.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD for adults include inattention, difficulties finishing tasks, impulsive behaviors, poor organisational skills and difficulty keeping track of things. The symptoms may change over time and are often affected by life events such as menopausal, pregnancy, and hormone changes.
Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for a large number of people suffering from ADHD. By changing the way you behave and think, you can improve your symptoms and improve your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be done in one-to-one sessions with a therapist, or in a group. Other methods that some find beneficial are following an wholesome diet, attempting to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods and getting plenty of exercise. It is important to consult your doctor before making any changes in your diet or taking supplements.
It is essential for girls and women suffering from ADHD to get support from their family, colleagues and friends. They can also join support groups to meet women who suffer from the same condition and exchange experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a combination treatment method, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Making use of tools for organization, such as planners are beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. A balanced diet and physical exercise are essential for health and well-being.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD experience a high level of stress and pressure in our modern society. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern life, such as being a good partner or parent or managing a household, as well as being productive at work. This can increase the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and increase the risk of mental health issues that are developing, like depression or anxiety.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. adhd in young women may experience emotional symptoms like anger, mood swings and a feeling of not being confident in themselves. The symptoms of ADHD can also become worse during times of hormonal change such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also have other mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can impact the way their symptoms appear and make it harder to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available for girls and women suffering from ADHD. There are a variety of online resources, support groups, and charitable organizations. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that features helpful information, events, and support groups. These include peer support meetings and a forum where users can ask questions.
If an employee is suffering from significant difficulties with their ADHD, they can contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The GP may refer the employee to a treatment that is the most appropriate, like an in-home mental service or a neurodevelopmental specialist service. It is important to note that some people have difficulty being admitted to an assessment due to a lack clinical awareness or long waiting periods. This could be due to the fact that their challenges are thought to be due to another issue, such as a mental health problem or an addiction, instead of ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a significant impact on a person's employment. They have the right to reasonable accommodations 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 support for their employees. adhd in young women provide a variety of wellbeing and occupational health interventions, including e-learning modules mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. If you'd like to find out more about how we can assist your company, contact us now.