ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not being 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 recognize due to the fact that they look different from those of males. This can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may be shy to seek help, and are afraid that their doctor won't take the issue seriously. Some women have difficulty finding healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it impacts them as an adult.
The most common symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted, and impulsivity. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with planning and organisation as well as being forgetful or unable to remember appointments, not completing tasks, being easily distracted or not remembering what was said during conversations.
Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They are prone to anger outbursts, become overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. They may struggle with spelling or math. They may also have trouble maintaining consistent exercise habits or making healthy food choices.
Because of gender-based stereotypes about gender and behavior, it's harder for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could be more difficult to identify as having the disorder, particularly at school, where they often get misdiagnosed for depression or anxiety.
Many women suffering from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopause. This is because when women begin to enter menopausal changes their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. This is why it is crucial for women to monitor their symptoms and talk about them with their doctor or a specialist.
Women can also benefit from discussing their symptoms with their co-workers and teachers to determine what accommodations they could ask for to boost their performance at work or at school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their professor or boss however, some do it with ease and find that their workplaces and schools 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 you to a specialist or give you an assessment based on the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include looking at your symptoms over time, your history and any issues they may have caused.
Many healthcare professionals do not recognize the ways in which ADHD manifests in women. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at different times in the woman's life, based on the hormonal changes. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the run-up to menopause) and menopausal symptoms itself.
The symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships as well as school and work. Adults might have trouble maintaining a job or relationship and are at risk of depression, substance abuse anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances, making important decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
Talk to your employer if struggling to concentrate or paying close attention at work. You may be able to receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
You should also keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. The symptoms you experience are not caused by lack of motivation or self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and achieve your goals. It's just going to take some 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 tests. adhd in older women may be charged a fee but you will be evaluated by a qualified professional. They can offer assistance and advice on claiming benefits, finding solutions and dealing with workplace issues. They can also advise you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This can offer money to assist with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are often prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants. However, it is essential to discuss the possible side effects with your GP before starting treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to monitor the progress of your child or yourself and ensure that the medication is effective.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD in adults are inattention, difficulty completing tasks, impulsive behaviors poor organisational skills, and trouble keeping track of things. The symptoms can change as time passes and are frequently caused by life events such as hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopause.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for a large number of people suffering from ADHD. By changing how you behave and think, you can improve your symptoms and increase your self-esteem. Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT), which is a kind of talking therapy that helps you to alter negative patterns of thought and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in a group or individually with a therapy. Other treatments that some people consider beneficial include eating a healthy diet, trying to stay away from caffeine-rich or sugary foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. However, it is essential to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Women and girls with ADHD need to seek help from family, friends, and colleagues. They can also join a support group to meet other women with the same disorder and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a mix treatment approach, like medication and behavioral therapy. Organising adhd in women treatment and tracking deadlines with the help of planners is a great way to manage your day-to-day life. A balanced diet and regular physical exercise are essential for health and wellbeing.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD experience a high level of stress and pressure in today's society. These are often related to the expectations of being a loving spouse or parent, running household chores and performing well at work. This could make it harder to manage ADHD and increase the chance that other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, will develop.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often misunderstood. They may experience emotional symptoms like irritability, mood swings, and a low self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also become worse during times of hormonal changes like menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals who suffer from ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health issues like anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way that symptoms manifest and make it harder to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available to girls and women with ADHD. This includes a range of online resources, support groups, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls that features helpful 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, they should contact their GP to get an assessment. The doctor will be able to direct them to the most appropriate service that could be a mental health clinic or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to note that some individuals find it difficult to be referred to an assessment due to a lack clinical awareness or long waiting times. This could be because their problems are thought to be caused by another issue, like mental health issues or addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if a person's ADHD affects their work in a significant way and performance, it could be deemed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have an legal right to request reasonable adjustments from their employer. women and adhd could be a flexible schedule or additional support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can assist businesses in creating an environment of wellbeing and support for their employees. We provide a variety of occupational health and wellness interventions such as e-learning, coaching programmes and mindfulness workshops. Contact us today to find out more about our assistance for your business.