ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still under-diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This is at a huge cost to individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to identify due to the fact that they look different from those of males. It can also be caused by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD may have a difficult time telling their health care providers that they have symptoms of the condition. They may be embarrassed by seeking help and worry that their doctor will not be able to take them seriously. Some women also have trouble finding treatment providers who understand the condition and how it affects women as they age.
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically characterized by 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, forgetfulness or missing appointments, not completing tasks, being distracted easily and forgetting what you said in a conversation.
Women also have a tendency to struggle to control their emotions and impulses, which makes them prone to lash out in anger, become excessively emotional, and have trouble with social interactions. They may have difficulty with math or spelling. They might also find it difficult to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy food choices.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than it is for men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a harder time being identified, especially at school, where they are often mistakenly identified as having anxiety or depression.
Additionally, many women with ADHD have worsening symptoms in menopausal or perimenopausal periods. This is because as women start to go through menopausal symptoms, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to be aware of their symptoms and talk about these with their doctor or a specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their problems with coworkers or teachers to discover what accommodations they may be able to ask for to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people who suffer from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor however some have had success in doing this and discovering that their employers and school are more than happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
It is essential to see your GP if you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or give you an assessment based on the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include a review of your symptoms, your history as well as any problems could have been caused by them.
Many healthcare professionals do not know how ADHD manifests in women. This can cause delays in the diagnosis and 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 menstrual cycles, pregnancy (the run-up before menopause) menopausal, perimenopausal, and menopausal.
The symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs and are at risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to problems with managing finances, making critical decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
If you're having difficulty focusing or focusing at work, talk to your employer. You may be able to receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial assistance.
Also, remember that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Your symptoms are not due to laziness or low self-esteem. You can still succeed and achieve your goals. It's going to require a little more planning and effort.
If you're a woman with ADHD, you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact an organization that is private and offers ADHD tests. They may charge an amount, but you'll be assessed by a trained professional. They can provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, finding solutions and dealing with workplace issues. They can also tell you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you're employed. This could provide funds to help with things such as special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD might be prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is essential to discuss any adverse effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also advised to track your child's progress and ensure that the medication is working properly.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD for adults include inattention, difficulty completing tasks, impulsive behaviour poor organisational skills, and difficulty staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time, and are often influenced by life events such as menopausal, pregnancy, and hormonal changes.
Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for many people with ADHD. Changes in the behavior and thoughts you make can help reduce your symptoms and boost self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of behavior and thinking.
CBT can be conducted in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, or in a group. Some people find that eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly are also helpful. It is important to consult your physician prior to making any changes in your diet or taking supplements.
adhd in women adults and girls with ADHD should seek out support from family and friends, as well as colleagues. They can also join support groups to meet women with the same problem and share experiences.
Women with ADHD can also benefit from a combination of treatment methods including therapy and medication. Organising their schedules and keeping track of deadlines using planners is a great way to manage your day-to-day routine. A balanced diet and physical activity are important for well-being and health.
Many women and girls with ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in modern society. These are often due to the pressures of modern-day society, such as being a good parent or partner or managing a household, as well as doing well at work. This can make it more difficult to deal with ADHD and increase the chance that other mental health issues like anxiety or depression, could develop.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They may exhibit emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood fluctuations, as well as low self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, for example menstrual or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also have other mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can alter the way that symptoms manifest and make it harder to manage.
There is plenty of help for women and girls who have ADHD. There are many online support groups, resources, and charitable organizations. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that provides helpful information, events, and support groups. These include peer support meetings and a forum where users can ask questions.
If a person is suffering from significant ADHD issues, they should contact their GP to get an assessment. The doctor can send them to the most appropriate service which could be a mental health clinic or a specialist neurodevelopmental service. It's important to remember that some individuals find it difficult to be referred to an assessment due to a lack clinical awareness or long waiting periods. It could be that their difficulties are due to a different issue, such as addiction or mental illness, and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that if an individual's ADHD affects their work in a significant way and performance, it could be deemed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could include the possibility of a flexible work schedule, or additional training and assistance at work.
Optima Health can help businesses develop an internal culture that promotes wellness and encourages their employees. We offer a wide range of occupational health and wellness interventions such as e-learning, mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. Contact us today to find out more about our services for your business.