ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not being diagnosed for girls and women. This is a huge cost to both the individual and the economy.
These symptoms are more difficult to recognize in females since they manifest differently than men. This is also worsened by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD may have a difficult to tell their health care providers that they have symptoms of the condition. They might be shy to seek assistance, and they are worried that their doctor won't take it seriously. Women may find it difficult to find treatment providers who understand their condition and how it impacts them as they grow older.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted, and an impulsive nature. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include issues with planning and organisation as well as being forgetful or unable to remember appointments, not completing tasks, getting distracted easily or not remembering what was said during conversations.
Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be susceptible to anger outbursts, become overly emotional and have issues with social interactions. They may struggle with spelling or math. They may also have trouble maintaining consistent exercise habits or making healthy choices for their diet.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sexuality and behavior, it's harder for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women with hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could have more trouble being recognised as having the disorder, particularly at school, where they often get misdiagnosed for depression or anxiety.
Many women who suffer from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal. As women begin to enter menopausal stage, they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their problems with coworkers or teachers to learn what accommodations they might be able to request to enhance their performance at work or at school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their professor or boss, some do so with ease and find that their schools and workplaces are more than willing to make reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you think you might have ADHD, it's important to consult your GP. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist, or diagnose you based on the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include examining your symptoms over time, your medical history and any problems they've caused.
Many healthcare professionals do not recognise how ADHD manifests in women. This can lead to delays in getting a diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at various times throughout a woman's life, depending on the hormonal changes. This includes menstruation, pregnancy (the run-up before menopause) menopausal, perimenopausal, and menopause.
ADHD symptoms can affect the work environment, school and relationships. In adulthood, this may result in having difficulty keeping a job, or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of abuse, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances making decisions, and managing multiple priorities.
If you have difficulty concentrating or paying attention in work, speak with your employer. You might be able to get help by taking more breaks or working from home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can provide financial and practical assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological disorder Your symptoms aren't a result of being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You can still be successful and achieve your goals. It might just take a little more effort and planning.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact a private organisation that offers ADHD assessments. They may charge a fee, but you'll be assessed by a certified professional. They can offer advice and assistance in claiming benefits, finding solutions and dealing with workplace issues. They can also help you determine whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This could provide funds to help with things like specialised equipment or adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD might be prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. The drugs used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any adverse effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to track the development of your child or yourself, and to ensure that the medication is working.
adhd symptoms in women of ADHD in adults are carelessness, difficulty finishing tasks, impulsive behaviors poor organisational skills, and difficulties staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can alter over time and are often caused by life events such as hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopause.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy can be an effective treatment. By changing how you behave and think, you can reduce your symptoms as well as boost your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT) which is a type of therapy through which to change the negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be done in a group or one-on-one with a therapy. Some people find that eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly are also helpful. It is crucial to speak with your physician prior to making any changes to your diet or taking any supplements.
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD should seek out support 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 with ADHD may also benefit from a mix of treatment methods, such as medication and behavioural therapy. Organising their life and tracking deadlines with the help of planners is a great method to manage your day-to-day routine. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are important for health and well-being.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in today's society. These are often due to the pressures of modern-day society, such as being a good parent or partner as well as managing a household and performing well at work. This can add to the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and increase the chance of mental health issues developing, such as depression or anxiety.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD often feel misunderstood by people around them. They may display emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, as well as low self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder may also get worse during times of hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. In addition, many people suffering from ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health problems like anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms appear and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available to women and girls with ADHD. There are a variety of online resources, support groups, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that provides useful information, events and support groups. There are peer support groups as well as an area for people to ask questions.
If an employee has significant ADHD issues it is recommended that they contact their GP to have an assessment. The doctor can refer them to the appropriate service that could be a community mental health facility or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It is important to note that some individuals find it difficult to be referred to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or long waiting times. It could be that their issues are attributed to another issue, such as addiction or mental illness, and not ADHD.
Also, it's worth noting that ADHD can be considered a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it affects a person's job. This means they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
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