ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized in women and girls. This is at a huge cost to the individual and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to identify because they look different than the men's. This is also exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may be uncomfortable asking for help, and they fear that their doctor won't be able to take the condition seriously. Some women also have trouble finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.
Adults with ADHD are often identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to be affected by the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattention-related symptoms include issues with planning and organisation and forgetfulness, or even missing 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 more prone to anger-related outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. They may struggle with math or spelling. They may also have difficulty adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy choices for their diet.
It is also more difficult to identify ADHD symptoms in women than it is in men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a harder time being identified, especially at school, where they are often misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Additionally that, many women suffering from ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during perimenopause and menopause. As women begin to enter menopause and produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
signs of adhd in women benefit from discussing their symptoms with their co-workers and teachers to determine what accommodations they can make to improve their performance in the workplace or at school. Many people with ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor however some have had success in doing so and finding that their workplaces and schools are willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It's important that you see your GP if you suspect you might have ADHD. 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 are often more difficult to diagnose than men because many healthcare professionals don't recognise the ways ADHD manifests in females. This can lead to delays in getting diagnosed and receiving treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes that occur in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. This includes during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the period leading up to menopausal) and menopausal symptoms itself.
ADHD symptoms can also affect the work environment, school and relationships. Adults may have difficulty maintaining relationships or jobs, and are at risk of depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances, making critical decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
If you're having difficulty focusing or paying attention in 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 inquire about support services such as Access to Work, which can provide financial and practical assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological condition, so your symptoms aren't caused by being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You can still meet your goals and be successful. It's just going to take some extra effort and planning.
If you're a woman suffering from ADHD You can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private organizations that offer ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of for a fee, but you will be assessed by a qualified professional. They will also provide assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, seeking solutions to workplace issues. If you're employed in a workplace, they can help you determine whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance as well as Access to Work. This can help pay for things like specialized equipment and adaptations at the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are prescribed medications to treat their symptoms. The drugs used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to track the development of your child or yourself, and to ensure that the medication is effective.
Adults who suffer from ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulties staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time and are often affected by life events, such as pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal changes.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be an effective treatment. Changes in the way you think and behave can improve your symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. Women and girls who have ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT), which is a type of therapy for talking that helps you to alter negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be conducted in one-on-one sessions, with a therapist or in a group. Other methods that some consider beneficial include eating an wholesome diet, attempting to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods and getting plenty of exercise. It is crucial to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for women and girls with ADHD to seek out support from their family, friends and colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women who have the same disorder and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD could also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment strategy, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Using organisation tools like planners can be 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.
In modern society there are many girls and women who with ADHD are under a lot of pressure and stress. These are often related to the expectations of being a responsible spouse or parent, running household chores and performing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the chance of other mental health issues that are developing, like anxiety or depression.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD are often misunderstood. They may be afflicted by emotional issues like anger, mood swings and a low self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder may also worsen when there are hormonal changes, such as menstrual or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety and depression. These can impact the way their symptoms manifest and can be more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available to women and girls with ADHD. There are a variety of online resources, support groups and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website includes an entire page devoted to girls and women and includes helpful information and events. 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 doctor will be able to send them to the appropriate service, which could be a community mental health facility or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It is important to keep in mind that some people are unable to be assessed due to a lack clinical awareness or lengthy waiting periods. This might be because their problems are thought to be due to another issue, like mental health issues or an addiction, rather than ADHD.
Also, it's important to note that ADHD could be regarded as 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 an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
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