ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still under-diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is at a huge cost to individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to recognize because they look different than those of males. This is also caused by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed seeking help and worry that their doctor will not be able to take them seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding treatment providers who understand their condition and how it impacts them as an adult.
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically marked by impulsivity, apathy, and difficulty staying focused. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include problems with planning, organisation, forgetfulness or being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, being distracted easily and not being able to remember what you said in a conversation.
Women may also find it hard to control their emotions and impulses, which makes them prone to lash out in anger, become wildly emotional, and have issues with social relationships. They may struggle with handwriting or with math and spelling skills. They might be unable to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy choices for their diet.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior, it's difficult for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, particularly at school where they're often misdiagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety.
Many women suffering from ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopausal periods. This is because when women begin to enter menopausal changes their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to monitor their symptoms and talk about the symptoms with their doctor or a specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to talk about their symptoms with co-workers or teachers to learn what accommodations they may be able to request to enhance their performance at work or in school. Many people with ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their professor or boss however, some have found success in doing this and discovering that their workplaces and school are more than happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD is a must to visit your GP. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist, or diagnose you using the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). attention deficit disorder in women may include examining your symptoms over time, your past medical history and any issues they may have caused.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than males because many healthcare professionals don't recognise the ways ADHD presents in females. This can lead to delays in obtaining diagnosed and receiving treatment. The symptoms of ADHD can get worse 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 run-up to menopause), and the menopause itself.
Symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. As adults, this could mean having trouble with keeping a job, or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of substance misuse as well as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances, making important decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
Talk to your employer if you are struggling to concentrate or focusing at work. You might be able to receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home at times. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial assistance.
It's also worth remembering that ADHD is a neurological condition, so your symptoms aren't caused by being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and reach your goals. It may just require a little more planning and effort.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact a private organisation that offers ADHD tests. They might charge fees however, you'll be inspected by a qualified professional. They can offer advice and guidance about applying for benefits, locating solutions and dealing with workplace issues. If you're employed in a workplace, they can help you determine whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. This can assist in paying for things like specialized equipment and modifications at the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are able to receive medications to treat their symptoms. The drugs used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is essential to discuss any side effects with your GP prior to implementing treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to monitor the progress of your child or yourself and make sure that the medication is working.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD in adults are carelessness, difficulty finishing tasks, impulsive behaviour poor organisational skills, and difficulties keeping track of things. Symptoms can change with time and are usually influenced by life events, such as hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopause.
For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy can be an effective treatment. The way you think and behave can reduce the symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Women and girls who have ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT), which is a type of talking therapy that helps to change the negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be carried out in one-on-one sessions with a therapist or in groups. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly are also helpful. It is important to consult your physician prior to making any changes to your diet or taking any supplements.
Women and girls with ADHD need to seek help from family, friends, and colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women who have the same condition and share their experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD could also benefit from a combination treatment strategy, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Organising their lives and keeping track deadlines with the help of planners is a great way to manage your day-to-day life. A balanced diet and regular physical exercise are essential for health and well-being.
In the modern world, many women and girls with ADHD are under a lot of pressure and stress. These can be related to the pressures of being a caring parent or partner, running a household and doing well at work. This can add to the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and increase the likelihood of other mental health issues that are developing, like anxiety or depression.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD feel not understood. They might experience emotional symptoms like irritability, mood swings, and a low self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition can also worsen during periods of hormonal change, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way that symptoms manifest and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of help available to girls and women suffering from ADHD. There are adhd in women checklist , support groups, and charitable organizations. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that provides important information, events and support groups. There are peer support groups as well as a forum for people to ask questions.
If an employee is suffering from significant difficulties with their ADHD or other ADHD-related issues, they should speak to their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor can refer them to the most appropriate service, which could be a mental health service or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to note that some individuals have difficulty being admitted to an assessment due to a lack clinical awareness or lengthy waiting times. It could be that their difficulties are due to a different issue, like a addiction or mental illness and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that if a person's ADHD has a significant impact on their work and performance, it could be deemed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have the legal right to make reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could mean the possibility of a flexible work schedule or additional training and assistance at work.
At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an environment of wellbeing and support for their employees. We provide a range of occupational health and wellness interventions, such as coaching programs, eLearning modules and mindfulness training workshops. If you'd like to know more about how we can help your company, contact us today.