ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is not yet diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to individuals and the economy.
Females' symptoms are more difficult to identify due to the fact that they look different from those of men. This is exacerbated by hormonal changes such as the menstrual period and pregnancy or menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed asking for help and fear that their healthcare provider won't take them seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it impacts them as an adult.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted and an impulsive nature. Women are more susceptible to the inattention type of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties with planning, organisation forgetfulness, having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, becoming easily distracted and forgetting what you said in a conversation.
Women may also struggle to control their emotions and impulses, which makes them more prone to explode in anger, become overly emotional, and struggle with social interactions. They may struggle with math or spelling. They may also have trouble maintaining consistent exercise habits or making healthy choices for their diet.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than in men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a harder time being diagnosed, especially at school where they are often misdiagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety.
Many women who suffer from ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopause. This is because when women begin to enter menopausal symptoms their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can exacerbate the symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their physician.
Women can also benefit by discussing their symptoms with their co-workers and teachers to find out what accommodations they could ask for to boost their performance in the workplace or at school. Many people with ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their professor or boss, but some have found success in doing so and finding that their workplaces and schools are happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
It is essential to see your GP in the event that you suspect you might have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or give you a diagnosis based on the criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include a review of the symptoms you are experiencing, your history, and any problems that they may have caused.
Women are more difficult to diagnose than men because many healthcare professionals don't recognize the ways ADHD presents in females. This can result in delays in receiving an assessment and treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD can become worse at different times during women's lives, based on the hormonal changes. These include during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the period leading up to menopausal), and the menopause itself.
Symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships at work, school and social. Adults may have difficulty maintaining relationships or jobs, and be at risk for depression, substance abuse, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances, making crucial decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
If you're having difficulty focusing or focusing at work, speak to your employer. There are ways to help, such as offering more breaks or allowing you to work at home occasionally. You might also want to inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
Also, keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Your symptoms are not due to lack of motivation or self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and succeed. It may just require some extra effort and planning.
If you're a woman suffering from ADHD, you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact an organization that is private and offers ADHD assessments. You could be charged a fee but you will be evaluated by a professional. They can offer advice and assistance in claiming benefits, finding solutions to 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 help you pay for things like specialized equipment and adaptations at the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants, but it is crucial to discuss any potential adverse effects with your GP before starting treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also recommended to monitor your or your child's progress and make sure the medication is working well.
adhd symptoms in women adults with ADHD often show signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulty staying on task or recollecting information. The symptoms may change over time and are often influenced by life events, such as menopausal or pregnancy-related hormonal changes.
Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for a large number of people suffering from ADHD. By changing the way you act and think, you can improve your symptoms as well as boost your self-esteem. Girls and women who suffer from ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT) which is a form of therapy for talking that helps you to alter negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be carried out in a group or one-on-one with a therapist. Other treatments that some people find helpful are eating 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 any supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women with ADHD to get support from their family members, colleagues and friends. They can join support groups to meet other women who have the same problem and share experiences.
Women with ADHD can also benefit from a mix of treatment options, such as treatment with medication and behavioural therapy. Making use of tools for organization, like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. Being active enough can help improve concentration and mood while eating a balanced diet is vital for overall health and wellbeing.
Many girls and women with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern life including being a good parent or partner as well as managing a household and doing well at work. This can increase the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and may increase the chance of mental health issues that are developing, like anxiety or depression.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They may display emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood swings, and low self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, like during menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can impact the way symptoms are perceived and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of help available to women and girls with ADHD. There are many online resources, support groups and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website features an entire page devoted to women and girls with useful information and events. There are peer support groups and an area for people to ask questions.
If a person is suffering from significant ADHD issues it is recommended that they contact their GP to get an assessment. The GP can refer them to the most appropriate service that could be a community mental health service or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It's important to remember that some people have difficulty being referred to an assessment due to a lack of clinical awareness or long waiting times. It may be that their problems 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 or work, it may be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that they have the legal right to make reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include the possibility of a flexible work schedule, or additional training and support at work.
Optima Health can help businesses develop an internal culture that promotes wellness and encourages their employees. We provide a variety of wellbeing and occupational health interventions such as e-learning, coaching programmes and mindfulness workshops. If you'd like to know more about how we can help your business, get in touch today.