ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still not properly diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to both the individual and the economy.
These symptoms are more difficult to recognize in females because they present differently from males. It can also be caused by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They might be embarrassed to ask for assistance, and they are worried that their doctor won't take the issue seriously. Women may find it difficult to find treatment providers who understand their condition and how it impacts them as an
adult add in women.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulty paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted, and impulsivity. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with organisation and planning as well as being forgetful or unable to remember appointments, not finishing tasks, being easily distracted, or not remembering what was said in conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses, making them more likely to shout in anger, become excessively emotional, and have issues with social interactions. They may have trouble writing or struggling with math and spelling skills. They may also have trouble maintaining consistent exercise habits or making healthy choices for their diet.
It is also more difficult to identify ADHD symptoms in women than in men due to gender-based stereotypes about sex and behaviour. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could be more difficult to identify as having the disorder, particularly in schools, where they frequently get misdiagnosed for depression or anxiety.
Additionally to that, many women with ADHD have worsening symptoms in perimenopause and menopause. This is because as women begin to enter menopause their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can exacerbate the symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to monitor their symptoms and talk about them with their doctor or specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their issues with colleagues 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 talking about it with their professor or boss about their issues they have ADHD, some do it with ease and find that their schools and workplaces are more than willing to offer reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It's important that you see your GP when you suspect that you may have
adhd screening women. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist, or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include a look at your symptoms, your history as well as any problems they might have caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than males, as many healthcare professionals don't recognise the manner in which
undiagnosed adhd in women presents in females. This can lead to delays in obtaining an assessment and treatment. In addition, the signs of ADHD can worsen at various times throughout women's lives, based on hormonal changes. These include menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the run-up to menopause) and the menopausal phase itself.
The symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. Adults may have difficulty maintaining a job or relationship and be at risk for depression, substance abuse anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It can also create difficulties in managing finances making decisions, and balancing multiple priorities.
If you have difficulty concentrating or paying attention
adult add in women work, speak to your employer. There may be solutions, such as providing you with more breaks or allowing you to work at home for a few hours. You may also inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological issue, so your symptoms aren't due to being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You can still be successful and achieve your goals. It may just require a little more planning and effort.
If you're a woman suffering from ADHD you can learn more about it on the NHS website. You can also reach out to an organization that is private and offers ADHD assessments. They might charge a fee however, you'll be inspected by a certified professional. They can offer advice and assistance in applying for benefits, locating solutions to workplace issues. They can also advise you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you're employed. This can offer money to assist with things like specialised equipment or adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are able to receive medication to manage their symptoms. The medications prescribed can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is essential to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to implementing treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to track the development of your child or yourself and make sure that the medication is effective.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults is inattention, difficulties finishing tasks, impulsive behaviour poor organizational skills and trouble staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time and are frequently influenced by life events, such as menopausal or pregnancy-related hormone changes.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be an effective treatment. By changing the way you behave and think, you can lessen your symptoms as well as boost your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be carried out in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, or in a group. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy well-balanced diet and exercising regularly can be beneficial. However, it is essential to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is essential for girls and women with
Adhd In Women Uk to get support from their family members, 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 suffering from
adhd test for women can also benefit from a mixture of treatment methods like treatment with medication and behavioural therapy. Organising their life and tracking deadlines using planners is a great way to manage your daily life. A balanced diet and physical exercise are vital to well-being and health.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. These are often related to the expectations of being a loving parent or partner, running household chores and performing well at work. This can make it more difficult to cope with ADHD and increase the chance that mental health issues like depression or anxiety, will develop.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They might exhibit emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, as well as low self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder can also worsen during periods of hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Additionally, many people suffering from ADHD have co-existing mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way their symptoms appear and make it more difficult to manage.
There is plenty of help available for girls and women who have ADHD. There are many online resources, support groups, and charitable organizations. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women 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 problems it is recommended that they contact their GP to have an assessment. The GP can refer the patient to a treatment that is most appropriate, such as a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist service. It is important to be aware that due to the absence of awareness about clinical issues and long waiting times, some individuals have difficulty getting assessed. It could be that their difficulties are attributed to another issue, such as a addiction or mental illness, and not ADHD.
Also, it's important to note that ADHD could be regarded as to be a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a significant impact on a person's employment. This means they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could be an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an internal culture of wellness and support for their employees. We provide a variety of occupational health and wellness interventions, including eLearning modules, coaching programmes and mindfulness classes. If you'd like to know more about how we can assist your business, get in touch now.