ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized in women and girls. This comes at a significant cost to both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to recognize because they appear differently than the men's. It can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD might have trouble telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may be embarrassed by asking for help and fear that their health care provider will not take it seriously. Some women have difficulty finding treatment providers who understand the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.
Adults suffering from ADHD are often identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness, and difficulty staying focused. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention type of ADHD. Inattention symptoms include issues with planning, organisation forgetfulness, being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, being distracted easily and not being able to remember what you said during a conversation.
Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They are more prone to anger-related outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have problems with social relationships. They may have difficulty with spelling or math. They might also have difficulty 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 more difficult for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could have a harder time being recognized as having the disorder, especially at school, where they often get misdiagnosed for depression or anxiety.
Many women who suffer from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopausal periods. This is because when women start to go through menopausal changes, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can exacerbate the symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
navigate here can also benefit by discussing their concerns with co-workers and teachers to find out what accommodations they can make to improve their performance in the workplace or at school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable telling their boss or professor they have ADHD, some do it with success and find that their workplaces and schools are more than willing to make reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD it is important to visit your GP. Your doctor can refer you to an expert, or diagnose you based on the criteria set forth 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.
Many healthcare professionals don't recognize the ways in which ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in the 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 pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the menopausal transition) and the menopausal phase itself.
ADHD symptoms can affect school, work, and relationships. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs and are at risk of depression, substance abuse anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances, making crucial decisions and balancing many priorities.
If you have difficulty concentrating or focusing at work, talk to your employer. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home for a few hours. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
You should also be aware that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Your symptoms are not due to laziness or low self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and succeed. It may just take a bit more planning and effort.
You can learn more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also reach out to a private organization that provides ADHD assessments. They may charge a fee however, you'll be inspected by a certified professional. They will also provide advice and guidance on claiming benefits, seeking solutions to workplace issues. They can also tell you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can help pay for things like specialized equipment and adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants, but it is crucial to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also recommended to monitor your or your child's progress and ensure that the medication is working properly.
Adults with ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulty in staying focused or recalling things. The symptoms can change with time and are usually affected by life events, like hormonal 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 can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT), which is a form of therapy through which you change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be carried out in a group or one-on-one with the help of a therapist. Other therapies that many find helpful are eating an wholesome diet, attempting to avoid sugary or caffeine-rich foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. It is crucial to speak with your physician before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women suffering from ADHD to seek out assistance from their families, colleagues and friends. They can also join a support group in order to meet other women with the same condition and share their experiences.
Women with ADHD might also benefit from a combination treatment method, such as behavioral therapy and medication. Utilizing tools for organisation such as planners are helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. A balanced diet and physical exercise are essential for well-being and health.
In modern society women and girls with ADHD are in a constant state of pressure and stress. These are often related to the pressures of being a caring parent or partner, running household chores and performing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and increase the likelihood of other mental health issues developing, such as depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They may be afflicted by emotional issues such as irritability as well as mood swings and low self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also become worse when there are hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy or menstruation. Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms appear and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available for girls and women with ADHD. There are a variety of online resources, support groups, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls that features important information, events and support groups. This includes peer support groups and a forum where users can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD issues it is recommended that they contact their GP for an assessment. The GP can send them to the appropriate service which could be a local mental health service or a neurodevelopmental specialist. However, it is important to be aware that due to the absence of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some individuals are unable to be referred for an assessment. This might be because their problems are thought to be caused by a different issue, such as a mental health problem or addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also important to know that ADHD is an "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could include the possibility of a flexible work schedule or additional training and support at work.
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