ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not diagnosed in girls and women. This is at a huge cost to the individual and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to spot because they look different than those of men. It can also be caused by hormonal changes such as the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD can have a hard in telling their health care providers that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may feel embarrassed about asking for help and fear that their doctor will not be able to take them seriously. Some women also have trouble finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects women as they age.
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted and impulsivity. Women are more susceptible to the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. adhd in women treatment -related symptoms include problems with organisation, planning, forgetfulness or being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, becoming easily distracted and not being able to remember what you spoke about during an interaction.
Women can also find it hard to control their emotions and impulses, which makes them more prone to explode in anger, become overly emotional, and struggle with social relationships. They may have trouble writing or struggling with math and spelling skills. They may also have difficulty to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy food choices.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms for women than for men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sexuality and behavior. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could have a harder time being recognized as having the disorder, particularly at school, where they often are misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Many women with ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal. This is due to the fact that as women start to go through menopause their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor.
Women also benefit from discussing their issues with their co-workers and teachers to discover what accommodations they can ask for to boost 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 school are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It is essential to see your GP in the event that you suspect you have ADHD. Your doctor can refer to a specialist or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes looking at your symptoms over time, your medical history and any problems they've caused.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than males because many health professionals aren't aware of the ways ADHD manifests in females. This can lead to delays in receiving a diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD can get worse depending on the hormonal changes that occur in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. These include during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the period leading up to menopausal) and the menopausal phase itself.
The signs of ADHD can also affect relationships as well as school and work. Adults may have difficulty maintaining relationships or jobs and may be at risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also lead to problems with managing finances, making crucial decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
If you are having trouble concentrating or focusing at work, speak to your employer. You may be able to get help by taking more breaks or working from home at times. You can also ask about support services like Access to Work, which can provide financial and practical assistance.
You should also remember that ADHD is a neurological condition. Your symptoms are not caused by lack of motivation or self-esteem. You can still be successful and meet your goals. It's just going to require a little more planning and effort.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD you can learn more about it on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies which offer ADHD assessments. You could be charged an amount, but you will be assessed by a trained professional. They will also provide assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, seeking treatment and coping with workplace issues. They can also advise you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This can help pay for things like special equipment and adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD are able to receive medications to treat their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is important to discuss any side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to track the development of your child or yourself, and to ensure that the medication is effective.
Adults with ADHD often show signs of carelessness, poor organization as well as impulsive behavior. high functioning adhd in women have difficulty staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time, and are often influenced by life events like menopausal or pregnancy-related hormonal changes.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for many people with ADHD. Changes in the way you think and behave can help reduce your symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. adhd in older women and women who suffer from ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) which is a kind of talking therapy that helps you to alter negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be done in a group or individually with the help of a therapy. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly are also helpful. It is important to consult your doctor before making any changes in your diet or taking supplements.
It is essential for girls and women suffering from ADHD to receive assistance from their families, colleagues and friends. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women with the same condition and share their experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a mixture of treatment methods, such as medication and behavioural therapy. Organising their daily life and tracking deadlines using planners is an effective way to manage your day-to-day life. A balanced diet and physical exercise are vital to 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 partner or parent as well as managing a household and performing well at work. This can increase the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and increase the risk of mental health issues being developed, including anxiety or depression.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They might exhibit emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, as well as a lack in self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition may also get worse during times of hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals with ADHD have co-existing mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way in which their symptoms manifest and can make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available to girls and women suffering from ADHD. There are numerous online resources, support groups and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website features a section dedicated to women and girls and includes helpful information and events. This includes peer support groups and a forum where people can 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 GP can direct them to the appropriate service that could be a local mental health service or a specialist neurodevelopmental service. However, it is important to be aware that due to the absence of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some individuals find it hard to be admitted for an assessment. It could be that their issues may be due to another issue, such as a addiction or mental illness and not ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if a person's ADHD significantly impacts their work and performance, it could be deemed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include the ability to work from home or support and training at work.
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