ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still under-diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This is a huge cost for both individuals and the economy.
Females' symptoms are more difficult to spot because they look different than those of men. This is exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time telling their healthcare providers that they have symptoms of the condition. They may feel embarrassed seeking help and worry that their health care provider will not take it seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it affects them as they grow older.
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically marked by impulsivity, apathy, and difficulty staying focused. Women are more susceptible to the inattention type of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include problems in planning, organisation, forgetfulness or missing appointments, not completing tasks, becoming easily distracted, and not remembering what you said during an interaction.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be more prone to anger-related outbursts, become overly emotional and have issues with social relationships. They may have difficulty with spelling or math. They may also have trouble keeping up with their exercise routines or making healthy choices for their diet.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than for men due to gender-based stereotypes about sexuality and behavior. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a difficult time getting identified, especially at school where they are often mistakenly diagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety.
In addition that, many women suffering from ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during perimenopause and menopause. As women begin to enter menopause they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. This is why it is crucial for women to be aware of their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor or a specialist.
Women also benefit from discussing their issues with their colleagues and teachers to discover what accommodations they can ask for to boost 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 ease and find that their schools and workplaces are more than willing to make reasonable accommodations.
undiagnosed adhd in women is essential to see your GP when you suspect that you may have ADHD. Your doctor can refer you to an expert or provide you with an assessment based on the criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at your symptoms, your medical history and any issues they might have caused.
Many healthcare professionals fail to know how ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in receiving a diagnosis and treatment. In undiagnosed adhd in women , the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at different times in women's lives, based on the hormonal changes. This includes menstruation, pregnancy (the menopausal cycle) as well as perimenopausal and menopausal.
The signs of ADHD can also impact relationships as well as school and work. As adults, this could be a problem keeping a job, or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of abuse depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges in managing finances as well as making decisions and managing multiple priorities.
Talk to your employer if you are having trouble concentrating or focusing on work. There are solutions, such as providing you with more breaks or permitting you to work from home on occasion. You might also want to 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 condition. The symptoms you experience are not due to lack of motivation or self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and achieve your goals. It's just going to take some extra effort and planning.
You can learn more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies which offer ADHD assessments. You may be charged for a fee, however you will be analyzed by a trained professional. They will also provide assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, locating solutions and dealing with workplace issues. If you're employed and have a disability, they can tell you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance and Access to Work. This can assist in paying for things like specialised equipment and adaptations at the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD may be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants. However, it is crucial to discuss any potential side effects with your GP before starting treatment. Regular GP visits are advised to track your child's progress and ensure that the medication is working well.
Adults with ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty staying on task or recollecting information. The symptoms can change over time and are often affected by life events like menopausal, pregnancy, and hormonal changes.
Behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment for many people with ADHD. Changing the way you think and behave can reduce the symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. Women and girls with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, or in groups. Some people discover that eating a balanced well-balanced diet and exercising regularly are also helpful. However, it is essential to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Women and girls with ADHD should seek out support from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can also join a support group to meet other women who have the same disorder and share experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment strategy, such as behavioral therapy and medication. Using organisation tools such as planners can be helpful in managing their day-today lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. A balanced diet and regular physical exercise are essential for well-being and health.
Many women and girls with ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in our modern society. This can be due to the expectations of being a loving spouse or parent, running a household and doing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD, and can increase the risk of other mental health issues that are developing, like anxiety or depression.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often misunderstood. They may display emotions such as anger and mood swings, and low self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also become worse during times of hormonal change such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD also have other mental health issues like depression and anxiety. These conditions can alter the way symptoms are perceived and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available for girls and women suffering from ADHD. This includes a variety of online support groups, resources, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls that provides important information, events and support groups. There are peer support meetings as well as an area for people to ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD issues and is experiencing significant difficulties with ADHD, they should consult their GP for an assessment. The doctor can recommend the employee to a service that is the most appropriate, like a community mental service or a neurodevelopmental specialist service. However, it is important to be aware that due to a lack of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some people find it hard to be assessed. It may be that their problems may be due to another issue, such as a addiction or mental illness and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that if an individual's ADHD significantly impacts their work or work, it may be considered as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be a flexible schedule or additional support and training at work.
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