ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still not properly diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This is at a huge cost to individuals and the economy.
Symptoms can be more difficult to identify for females due to the fact that they appear differently than men. This can be further aggravated by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have a difficult in telling their healthcare providers that they are suffering from the condition. They may feel shy to seek help, and they fear that their doctor won't consider it seriously. Some women also have trouble finding treatment providers that understand the condition and how it affects women as they age.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted and an impulsive nature. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention type of ADHD. Inattention symptoms may include issues with planning and organisation, being forgetful or missing appointments, not finishing tasks, getting distracted easily, or not remembering what was said in conversations.
Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They are susceptible to anger outbursts, become overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. They might have trouble writing or struggling with spelling and math. They may also have difficulty adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy food choices.
It is also more difficult to identify ADHD symptoms for women than in men because of gender-based stereotypes regarding sex and behaviour. 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 having depression or anxiety.
Many women suffering from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal periods. This is because when women start to go through menopausal changes, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can worsen the symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor.
Women can also benefit by discussing their issues with their co-workers and teachers to discover what accommodations they could request to improve 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 however, some do it with success and find that their schools and workplaces are more than willing to make reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It's important that you see your GP in the event that you suspect you might have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to an expert or provide you with an assessment based on the guidelines set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include looking at your symptoms over time, your medical history and any problems they've caused.
Many healthcare professionals fail to know how ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in obtaining an assessment and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD can get worse depending on the hormonal changes that occur in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. These include pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the period leading up to menopausal), and the menopause itself.
Symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships as well as school and work. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs, and may be at risk of substance abuse, depression anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges with managing finances, making decisions and managing multiple priorities.
If you have difficulty concentrating or paying attention in work, speak with your employer. There may be solutions, such as providing you with more breaks or permitting you to work from home occasionally. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial support.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological disorder, so your symptoms aren't caused by being lazy or having low self-esteem. You can still meet your goals and be successful. It may just require a little more planning and effort.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD you can learn more about it on the NHS website. You can also contact private organizations which offer ADHD assessments. adhd symptoms in women test could be charged a fee however you will be analyzed by a professional. They can provide advice and assistance in applying for benefits, locating treatments and dealing with workplace issues. If you're employed in a workplace, they can help you determine whether you're eligible for Enhanced Disability Living Allowance as well as Access to Work. This can help pay for things like special equipment and adaptations at the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD may be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The medications used are stimulants and non-stimulants, but it is crucial to discuss the possible side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to monitor the progress of your child or yourself and make sure that the medication is effective.
Adults with ADHD often show signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time, and are frequently influenced by life events like menopausal or pregnancy-related hormone changes.
Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for a large number of people suffering from ADHD. By changing the way you behave and think, you can lessen your symptoms as well as boost your self-esteem. Women and girls with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be conducted in one-on-one sessions, with a therapist or in groups. Other therapies that many find helpful are eating an wholesome diet, attempting to stay away from caffeine-rich or sugary foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. It is essential to talk with your doctor before making any changes in your diet or taking supplements.
It is essential for girls and women with ADHD to seek out assistance from their families, colleagues and friends. They can also join a support group in order to meet other women with the same disorder and share their experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a combination treatment approach, like behavioral therapy and medication. Using organisation tools like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. A balanced diet and physical activity are important for well-being and health.
Many girls and women with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern-day society including being a good parent or partner or managing a household, as well as performing well at work. This could make it harder to cope with ADHD and increase the risk that other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, will develop.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD feel misunderstood. They may display emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood swings, as well as an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of the disorder can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy or menstruation. Additionally, many people who suffer from ADHD have co-existing mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. These can impact the way that their symptoms present and make it more difficult to manage.
There is plenty of help for women and girls who suffer from ADHD. This includes a range of online resources, support groups, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women with important 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 it is recommended that they contact their GP to get an assessment. The doctor can direct them to the appropriate service, which could be a local mental health service or a specialist neurodevelopmental service. It is important to note that some individuals are unable to be admitted to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or long waiting times. It could be that their difficulties may be due to another issue, such as a mental illness or addiction, and not 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. They have the right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could include an able-bodied working schedule or additional training and support at work.
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