ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not being diagnosed in girls and women. This is a huge cost to the individual and the economy.
Females' symptoms are more difficult to spot because they appear differently than those of men. This can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD might have trouble telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed asking for help, and may be worried that their doctor won't take them seriously. Some women have difficulty finding treatment providers that understand the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted, and impulsivity. adhd symptoms in women adults are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties in planning, organisation and forgetfulness, or having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, getting distracted easily and not being able to remember what you said during an interaction.
Women can also struggle to control their emotions and impulses, making them more likely to shout in anger, become overly emotional, and struggle with social relationships. They may have difficulty with math or spelling. They may also have trouble maintaining consistent exercise habits or making healthy food choices.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than it is for men due to gender-based stereotypes about sex and behaviour. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a harder time being diagnosed, especially at school where they are often misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Many women suffering from ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal. As women enter menopausal stage they produce less estrogen. This can exacerbate symptoms. This is why it is crucial for women to monitor their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their doctor or a specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their symptoms with co-workers or teachers to find out what accommodations they may be able to request to improve their performance at work or at school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their boss or professor however, some do it with success and find that their workplaces and schools are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD is a must to consult your GP. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist or give you an diagnosis based on criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at your symptoms, your history as well as any problems they might have caused.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than males as a lot of healthcare professionals don't recognise the manner in which ADHD presents in females. This can lead to delays in getting an assessment and treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD tend to worsen at various times throughout a woman's life, depending on hormonal changes. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy (the menopausal cycle), perimenopause, and menopause.
ADHD symptoms can also affect school, work, and relationships. Adults may have difficulty maintaining relationships or jobs, and be at risk for depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also cause difficulties in managing finances, making critical decisions and balancing many priorities.
Talk to your employer if you're having difficulty focusing or focusing at work. There are ways to help, like offering more breaks or permitting you to work from home occasionally. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial assistance.
It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological condition, so your symptoms aren't due to being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You can still succeed and reach your goals. It might just take some more effort and planning.
If you're a woman with ADHD, you can learn more about it on the NHS website. You can also reach out to an organization that is private and offers ADHD tests. There is a possibility of for a fee, however you will be analyzed by a professional. They will also provide assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, seeking treatment and coping with workplace issues. They can also help you determine whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This could provide funds to help with things like specific equipment or adaptations for the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The medications prescribed can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also recommended to keep track of your child's progress and make sure the medication is effective.
Adults who suffer from ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulties staying focused or recalling things. The symptoms can alter over time and are often influenced by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. Changes in the way you think and behave can reduce the symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps change negative patterns of behavior and thinking.
CBT can be done in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, or in a group. Some people discover that eating a balanced well-balanced diet and exercising regularly are beneficial. It is crucial to speak with your doctor before making any changes in your diet or taking supplements.
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD should seek out support from family and friends, as well as colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women with the same disorder and share their experiences.
Women with ADHD might also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment strategy, such as medication and behavioral therapy. Organising their lives and keeping track deadlines with the help of planners is a great way to manage your daily life. A balanced diet and physical exercise are essential for well-being and health.
Many girls and women with ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in our modern society. This can be due to the pressures of being a caring parent or partner, managing household duties and performing well at work. This makes it more difficult to manage ADHD and increase the likelihood that mental health issues like depression or anxiety, will develop.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They may be afflicted by emotional issues such as irritability, mood swings, and a lack of self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, like menstrual or pregnancy. Additionally, many people who suffer from ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. These can impact the way that their symptoms present and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of help available to girls and women suffering from 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. These include peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD difficulties it is recommended that they contact their GP to have an assessment. The GP can refer the patient to a service that is most appropriate, such as an in-home mental service or a neurodevelopment specialist service. However, it is important to be aware that due to the lack of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some people are unable to be referred for an assessment. This could be because their problems are thought to be caused by a different issue, such as mental health issues or an addiction, instead of 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 a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could mean the ability to work from home or support and training at work.
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