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 the individual 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 exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may feel shy to seek help, and are afraid that their doctor won't take the issue seriously. Some women also have trouble finding treatment providers that understand the condition and how it affects women as they age.
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulty paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted, and an impulsive nature. Women are more prone to the inattention type of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties with planning, organisation, forgetfulness or having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, becoming easily distracted, and not remembering what you said during the course of a conversation.
Women may also find it hard to control their emotions and impulses, which makes them more prone to explode in anger, become excessively emotional, and have trouble with social relationships. They may have poor handwriting or struggle with math and spelling skills. They may also find it difficult to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy choices for their diet.
Due to gender-based stereotypes of sex and behavior, it's harder for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may be more difficult to be diagnosed, particularly at school where they're often misdiagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety.
Many women suffering from ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal periods. This is due to the fact that as women start to go through menopause their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can worsen the symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their physician.
Women also benefit from discussing their symptoms with their colleagues and teachers to find out what accommodations they can request to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people suffering from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor however, some have found success in doing this and finding that their workplaces and schools are happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD, it's important to consult your GP. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist or diagnose you based on the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include a look at your symptoms, your history, and any problems that they might 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 receiving a diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may get worse based on the hormonal changes in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy (the menopausal cycle), perimenopause, and menopause.
ADHD symptoms can also impact the work environment, school and relationships. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs, and be at risk for substance abuse, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also cause difficulties with managing finances, making crucial decisions and balancing many priorities.
If you're having difficulty focusing or paying attention in work, talk to your employer. You might be able to receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home at times. You can also ask about support services like Access to Work, which can provide financial and practical support.
Also, be aware that ADHD is a neurological condition. The symptoms you experience are not the result of laziness or low self-esteem. You can still meet your goals and succeed. It's just going to take some more effort and planning.
If you're a woman suffering from ADHD you will find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private organisations that provide ADHD assessments. adhd in women treatment may be charged an amount, but you will be evaluated by a qualified professional. They can provide assistance and advice on applying for benefits, locating treatments and dealing with workplace issues. They can also tell you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This could provide funds to help with things such as special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD may be prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. However, it is crucial to discuss the potential side effects with your GP before starting treatment. Regular check-ups with your GP are recommended to keep track of your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is working properly.
Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD for adults include inattention, difficulty completing tasks, impulsive behaviors, poor organisational skills and difficulties staying on task or remembering things. Symptoms can change as time passes and are frequently affected by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy and menopausal.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for many people with ADHD. By changing how you behave and think, you can improve your symptoms and improve your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be done in a group setting or one-on-one with an therapist. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly are also helpful. It is crucial to speak with your physician prior to making any changes in your diet or taking any supplements.
Women and girls with ADHD should seek out support from family and friends, as well as colleagues. They can also join a support group to meet other women who have the same condition and share their experiences.
Women with ADHD can also benefit from a mix of treatment methods, such as treatment with medication and behavioural therapy. Making use of tools for organization, such as planners are helpful in managing their day-today lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. A balanced diet and physical exercise are vital to health and wellbeing.
Many women and girls with ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in modern society. These can be related to the pressures of being a loving parent or partner, running a household and doing well at work. This can add to the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and may increase the likelihood of mental health issues being developed, including depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD are often not understood. They might exhibit emotions such as anger and mood fluctuations, as well as an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of the condition can also become worse when there are hormonal changes, like during pregnancy or menstruation. Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. These can impact the way that the symptoms manifest and may make it more difficult to manage.
There is a lot of help for girls and women who have ADHD. This includes a variety of online support groups, resources, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls with useful information, events and support groups. There are peer support groups and an area for people to ask questions.
If an employee is suffering from significant difficulties with their ADHD and has a significant problem with their ADHD, they should contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The GP may refer the patient to a treatment that is the most appropriate, like a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist. However, it's important to be aware that due to the lack of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some individuals are unable to be assessed. This could be due to the fact that their challenges are thought to be caused by a different issue, like a mental health problem or an addiction, instead of ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is an "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. This means they have an legal right to request reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could be an able-bodied working schedule, additional training or support at work.
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