ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still under-diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This results in a significant cost for both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that they look different from those of men. This can also be caused by hormonal changes such as the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD can have a hard to tell their health care providers that they have symptoms of the condition. They may feel shy to seek assistance, and they are worried that their doctor won't take it seriously. add in adult women have difficulty finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it impacts their lives as an adult.
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically marked by impulsivity, apathy, and difficulty staying focused. adhd symptoms for women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattention symptoms include issues with planning, organisation and forgetfulness, or having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, being distracted easily, and not remembering what you said during a conversation.
Women may also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses, making them more prone to explode in anger, become excessively emotional, and have issues with social relationships. They may have trouble writing or struggling with spelling and math. They may also have difficulty to maintain a consistent routine of exercise or make healthy food choices.
Because of gender-based stereotypes about sexuality and behavior, it's more difficult for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-linked symptoms may have more trouble being recognised as having the disorder, especially in schools, where they frequently are misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Many women with ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal. As women transition into menopausal stage and produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and talk about these with their doctor or specialist.
Women also benefit from discussing their concerns with colleagues and teachers to determine what accommodations they could make to improve their performance in the workplace or at school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with 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
It is essential to see your GP in the event that you suspect you might have ADHD. Your doctor can refer you to an expert or provide you with an assessment based on the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include a look at your symptoms, your medical history, and any problems that they might have caused.
Many healthcare professionals do not recognize the ways in which ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes occurring in a woman's body at different stages of her life. This includes during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the period leading up to menopausal), and the menopause itself.
ADHD symptoms can also affect the work environment, school and relationships. In adulthood, this may mean having trouble with keeping a job, or being in a relationship, and being at risk of abuse, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also cause difficulties in managing finances, making important decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
If you are having trouble concentrating or paying attention at work, talk to your employer. You may be able get help by taking more breaks or working from home at times. You can also ask about support services such as Access to Work, which can provide financial and practical assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological issue, so your symptoms aren't a result of being lazy or having low self-esteem. You can still meet your goals and be successful. It's just going to require a little more planning and effort.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also reach out to a private organization that provides ADHD tests. You may be charged for a fee, but you will be assessed by a trained professional. They can offer assistance and advice on the benefits you're entitled to, how to access solutions to workplace issues. If you're working, they can advise on whether you're eligible for Enhanced Disability Living Allowance as well as Access to Work. This could provide funds to assist with things like specific equipment or adaptations for the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD are able to receive medication to manage their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any adverse effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to monitor your or your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is working properly.
Adults with ADHD often show signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or recalling things. Symptoms can change as time passes and are frequently affected by life events, such as hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopause.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a successful treatment. Changing the behavior and thoughts you make can improve your symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Women and girls with ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be conducted in a group or one-on-one with a Therapist. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly are beneficial. It is crucial to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women with ADHD to get assistance from their families, colleagues and friends. They can also join support groups to meet women who have the same condition and exchange experiences.
Women with ADHD can also benefit from a combination of treatment methods, such as medication and behavioural therapy. Organising their daily lives and keeping track deadlines with the help of planners is an effective way to manage your daily life. A balanced diet and physical exercise are essential for health and well-being.
In the modern world women and girls with ADHD are under a lot of stress and pressure. These can be related to the pressures of being a loving parent or partner, managing household chores and performing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD, and can increase the likelihood of other mental health conditions developing, such as depression or anxiety.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They may display emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood swings, and a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, such as during menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals suffering from ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health problems like anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way that symptoms manifest and make it more difficult to manage.
There is a lot of support for girls and women who suffer from ADHD. This includes a range of online resources, support groups and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls with important information, events and support groups. There are peer support groups and a forum for people to ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing severe difficulties with their ADHD and has a significant problem with their ADHD, they should contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor can refer the employee to a service that's the most appropriate, like a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist service. It is important to note that some people find it difficult to be admitted to an assessment due to a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting periods. This might be because their problems are thought to be caused by another issue, like mental health issues or an addiction, instead of ADHD.
Also, it's important to know that ADHD is to be a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. This means that they have an legal right to request reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include an able-bodied working schedule, or additional training and assistance at work.
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