ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not diagnosed in girls and women. This is a huge cost for both individuals and the economy.
These symptoms are more difficult to identify in females since they manifest differently to men. It can also be caused by hormonal changes such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
adhd in women treatment and symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD might have a difficult in telling their medical professionals that they are suffering from the condition. They may feel embarrassed asking for help and fear that their healthcare provider will not take it seriously. Some women also have trouble finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects them as an adult woman.
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a difficult time staying focused. Women are more prone to the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties in planning, organisation and forgetfulness, or being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, being distracted easily and not being able to remember what you said in an interaction.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be prone to anger outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have problems with social interactions. They may have difficulty with math or spelling. They may also have trouble adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy food choices.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than in men because of gender-based stereotypes about sexuality and behavior. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, especially at school, where they are often mistakenly identified as having anxiety or depression.
Many women with ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal. As women begin to enter menopausal and produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
Women also benefit from discussing their issues with their colleagues and teachers to determine what accommodations they can make to improve their performance in the workplace or at school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their professor or boss however, some do it with success and find that their schools and workplaces are more than willing to make reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It is important to visit your GP if you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor can refer you to an expert or provide you with a diagnosis based on the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at the symptoms you are experiencing, your history and any issues they may have caused.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than males as a lot of healthcare professionals don't recognise the way ADHD presents in females. This can lead to delays in obtaining a diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the signs of ADHD can worsen at different times during women's lives, based on hormonal changes. These include during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the period leading up to menopausal), and the menopause itself.
The symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships as well as school and work. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs and be at risk for substance abuse, depression, 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 focusing at work, talk to your employer. There are ways to help, 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 like Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological issue, so your symptoms aren't caused by being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You can still meet your goals and be successful. It's going to require some 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 contact private companies that offer ADHD assessments. You could be charged an amount, however you will be analyzed by a qualified professional. They will also provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, seeking solutions to workplace issues. They can also tell you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you're employed. This could provide funds to help with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The drugs used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is essential to discuss any adverse effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to check the growth of your child's or yourself, and to ensure that the medication is working.
Adults with ADHD often show signs of carelessness, poor organization, impulsive behavior, and difficulty staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can alter over time and are often influenced by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy and menopause.
Behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. By changing the way you act and think, you can improve your symptoms and improve your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of behavior and thinking.
CBT can be carried out in one-to-one sessions with a therapist or in a group. Some people find that eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly can be beneficial. It is important to consult your physician before making any changes to your diet or taking any supplements.
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD need to seek help from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can also join a support group in order to meet other women who have the same disorder and share their experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a combination treatment approach, like treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation such as planners are beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. A balanced diet and physical exercise are essential for well-being and health.
Many girls and women with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. This can be due to the expectations of being a caring parent or partner, running household duties and performing well at work. This can add to the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and may increase the likelihood of other mental health conditions developing, such as depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD feel not understood. They may exhibit emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood swings, as well as low self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also become worse when there are hormonal changes, like menstrual or pregnancy. In addition, many people with ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms manifest and can make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available to girls and women suffering from ADHD. This includes a range of online support groups, resources, and charities. ADHD UK's website includes a page dedicated to girls and women with useful information and events. There are peer support groups and a forum for people to ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD problems and is experiencing significant difficulties with ADHD, they should consult their GP to get an assessment. The GP may refer the patient to a treatment that is the most appropriate, for instance a community mental service or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It is important to note that some people have difficulty being referred to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting periods. This might be because their issues are believed to be caused by a different issue, such as a mental health problem or an addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also worth noting that ADHD can be considered a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it affects a person's job. They are entitled to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could mean an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
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