ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized for girls and women. This is a huge cost to both the individual and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to identify due to the fact that they look different from the men's. This can be exacerbated also by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycle and pregnancy or menopausal.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD might have a difficult to tell their health care providers that they are suffering from the condition. They may be shy to seek assistance, and they are worried that their doctor won't consider the condition seriously. Some women have difficulty finding treatment providers who understand their condition and how it impacts their lives as an adult.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted, and impulsivity. Women are more susceptible to the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with planning and organisation and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not completing tasks, becoming easily distracted or forgetting what was said during conversations.
Women also have a tendency to find it hard to control their emotions and impulses, which makes them more likely to shout in anger, become excessively emotional, and struggle with social interactions. They might have trouble writing or struggling with spelling and math. They may also have difficulty adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy food choices.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than it is for men due to gender-based stereotypes about gender and behavior. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting identified, especially at school where they are often misdiagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety.
Additionally that, many women suffering from ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during menopausal or perimenopausal periods. This is because when women start to go through menopausal symptoms their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor or specialist.
It can also be beneficial for women to talk about their issues with colleagues or teachers to learn what accommodations they might be able to ask for to enhance their performance at work or at school. Many people suffering from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor however some have had success in doing this and discovering that their workplaces and schools are happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD is a must to consult your GP. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include looking at your symptoms over time, your past medical history and any problems they've caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than men, as many health professionals aren't aware of the ways ADHD presents in females. This can cause delays in getting an assessment and treatment. Highly recommended Site of ADHD may get worse based on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. These include during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the menopausal transition) and the menopausal phase itself.
The signs of ADHD can also affect relationships, work and school. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs, and may be at risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances making decisions, and managing multiple priorities.
Speak to your employer if you are struggling to concentrate or paying close attention at work. There are solutions, such as providing you with more breaks or the option of working from home occasionally. You can also ask about support services like Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial assistance.
It is important to remember that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. The symptoms you experience are not the result of insecurity or lack of self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and be successful. It may just require some more planning and effort.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact private organisations that offer ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of for a fee, but you will be evaluated by a qualified professional. They also provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, finding solutions to workplace issues. If you're employed and have a disability, they can tell you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. This could help you pay for things like special equipment and modifications at the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD might be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. navigate here used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to monitor the progress of your child or yourself and make sure that the medication is working.
Adults with ADHD often show signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time and are often influenced by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
Behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment for many people with ADHD. By changing the way you act and think, you can reduce your symptoms as well as boost your self-esteem. Women and girls who have ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is a form of talking therapy that helps to change the negative patterns of thought and behaviour.
CBT can be carried out in a group or individually with an Therapist. Some people find that eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly are beneficial. But it is important to consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is essential for women and girls with ADHD to receive assistance from their families, colleagues and friends. They can join support groups to meet women with the same condition and exchange experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a mix treatment method, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Organising their life and tracking 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 wellbeing.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in modern society. These can be related to the expectations of being a responsible spouse or parent, running household duties and performing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the chance of other mental health conditions being developed, including depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They may display emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, as well as an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of the disorder can also become worse during times of hormonal change such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way symptoms are perceived 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 girls and women that features helpful information, events, and support groups. There are add symptoms in women as an online forum where people can 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 GP can refer the patient to a service that's most appropriate, such as a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopment specialist service. It is important to note that some people find it difficult to be assessed because of a lack of clinical awareness or long waiting periods. This might be because their issues are believed to be caused by another issue, like mental health issues or addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also important to note that if someone's ADHD significantly impacts their work or work, it may be considered as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that they have an legal right to request reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include a flexible schedule or additional support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can assist businesses in creating an internal culture of wellness and assistance for their employees. We offer a range of occupational health and wellbeing interventions, including e-learning modules mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. If you'd like to find out more about how we can assist your company, contact us today.