ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not diagnosed for girls and women. This is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms can be difficult to recognize in females since they manifest differently to men. This is also exacerbated by hormonal changes like the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD might have trouble telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed about asking for help and fear that their healthcare provider will not take it seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it affects them as an adult.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted, and impulsivity. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention type of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties in planning, organisation, forgetfulness or being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, getting distracted easily, and not remembering what you said during a conversation.
Women may also have difficulties controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be susceptible to anger outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. They may have trouble writing or struggling with math and spelling skills. They may also find it difficult to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy food choices.
It is also more difficult to identify ADHD symptoms in women than it is in men because of gender-based stereotypes about sexuality and behavior. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, especially at school, where they are often misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Additionally, many women with ADHD experience worsening symptoms during menopausal or perimenopausal periods. As women transition into menopausal stage and produce less estrogen. This can exacerbate symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to monitor their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor or a specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their symptoms with co-workers or teachers to discover what accommodations they may be able to request to improve their performance at work or in school. Many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their boss or professor, but some have found success in doing this and discovering that their employers and schools are willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It's important that you see your GP in the event that you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or give you an assessment based on the criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at your symptoms, your medical history, and any problems that they may have caused.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than men, as many health professionals aren't aware of the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can cause delays in obtaining diagnosed and receiving treatment. In addition, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at different times in women's lives, based on the hormonal changes. adhd women test includes menstruation, pregnancy (the run-up before menopause) as well as perimenopausal and menopausal.
Symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships as well as school and work. Adults may have difficulty maintaining a job or relationship and may be at risk of depression, substance abuse anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It can also create difficulties with managing finances, making decisions and managing multiple priorities.
If you're having difficulty focusing or focusing at work, speak to your employer. There are ways to help, like providing you with more breaks or the option of working from home for a few hours. You might also want to inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological condition Your symptoms aren't caused by being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and be successful. It's going to require a little more planning and effort.
Find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact private organisations that offer ADHD assessments. They might charge fees however, you'll be evaluated by a trained professional. They also provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, seeking solutions and dealing with workplace issues. If you're employed and have a disability, they can tell you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. This could provide funds to assist with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is essential 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 working properly.
Adults suffering from ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty staying on task or recollecting information. The symptoms may change over time and are often affected by life events such as menopausal, pregnancy, and hormone changes.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. By changing the way you act and think, you can improve your symptoms as well as improve your self-esteem. adult female adhd symptoms and women suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of behavior and thinking.
CBT can be conducted in one-to-one sessions with a therapist, or in groups. Some people find that eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly are also helpful. It is crucial to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women with ADHD to seek out support from their family, colleagues and friends. They can join support groups in order to meet other women with the same condition and exchange experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD might also benefit from a mix treatment approach, like medication and behavioral therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Engaging in regular physical activity can improve mood and focus, while eating a balanced diet is essential for overall health and well-being.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in modern society. These are often related to the pressures of being a responsible spouse or parent, running a household and doing well at work. This can add to the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the risk of other mental health issues being developed, including depression or anxiety.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They may be afflicted by emotional issues such as irritability as well as mood swings and lack of self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition can also become worse when there are hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menstruation. Additionally, Web Site who suffer from ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can impact the way symptoms are perceived and make it harder to manage.
There is a lot of help available for girls and women who suffer from ADHD. There are many online resources, support groups and charities. ADHD UK's website includes a section dedicated to women and girls, which includes useful information and events. This includes peer support groups and a forum where users can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD difficulties, they should contact their GP for an assessment. The GP may refer the patient to a service that's the most appropriate, like a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopment specialist service. It is important to be aware that due to a lack of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some individuals find it hard to be referred for an assessment. It could be that their difficulties are due to a different issue, like a mental illness or addiction, and not ADHD.
Also, it's important to know that ADHD is to be a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it affects a person's job. They are entitled to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could include an able-bodied working schedule, additional training or support at work.
Optima Health can help businesses establish an internal culture that promotes wellness and helps their employees. We offer a wide range of occupational health and wellbeing interventions such as e-learning, mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. Contact us today to find out more about our services for your business.