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 both individuals and the economy.
Symptoms can be more difficult to recognise for females due to the fact that they appear differently to men. This can be exacerbated also by hormonal changes, such as the menstrual period or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may be shy to seek help, and they fear that their doctor won't take the condition seriously. Some women have difficulty finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.
The most common symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted and impulsivity. Women are more prone to the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattention symptoms may include issues with planning and organisation as well as being forgetful or unable to remember appointments, not completing tasks, becoming easily distracted or forgetting what was said during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They are more prone to anger-related outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. signs of add in adult women might have trouble writing or struggling with spelling and math. They may also find it difficult to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy food choices.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than for men due to gender-based stereotypes about sex and behaviour. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a difficult time getting identified, especially at school where they're often mistakenly identified as having anxiety or depression.
Additionally to that, many women with ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal cycles. As women begin to enter menopausal stage, they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and talk about them with their doctor or a specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their issues with colleagues or teachers to find out what accommodations they may be able to request to enhance their performance at work or at school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their boss or professor they have ADHD, some do it with success and find that their schools and workplaces are more than willing to offer reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It is essential to see your GP when you suspect that you have ADHD. Your doctor may 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 may include a review of the symptoms you are experiencing, your history as well as any problems could have been caused by them.
Many healthcare professionals fail to know how ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in getting a diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD can get worse depending on the hormonal changes in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. These include during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the period leading up to menopausal), and the menopause itself.
The signs of ADHD can also affect relationships at work, school and social. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs, and are at risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances, making important decisions and balancing many priorities.
Contact your employer if you're having trouble concentrating or paying close attention at work. You may be able to get help by taking more breaks or working from home on occasion. You may also inquire about support services like Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
It is important to remember that ADHD is a neurological condition. Your symptoms aren't due to lack of motivation or self-esteem. You can still achieve your goals and succeed. It may just require some extra effort and planning.
Find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact private organizations that offer ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of an amount, however you will be analyzed by a trained professional. They will also provide assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, locating solutions to workplace issues. If you're employed, they can advise on whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. This can provide money to help with things like specific equipment or adaptations for the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are often prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants, though it is important to discuss potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to check the progress of your child or yourself and ensure that the medication is effective.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults is inattention, difficulties finishing tasks, impulsive behaviour, poor organisational skills and difficulties keeping track of things. The symptoms can change over time and are often affected by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
Behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment for a large number of people suffering from ADHD. Changing the way you think and behave can help reduce your symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be done in one-on-one sessions, with a therapist or in a group. Some people discover that eating a balanced, balanced diet and exercising regularly are beneficial. It is essential to talk with your physician before making any changes in your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women suffering from ADHD to receive assistance from their families, friends and colleagues. They can also join support groups to meet women with similar conditions and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD could also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment strategy, such as medication and behavioral therapy. signs of add in adult women of organizing their lives and keeping track deadlines with the help of planners is a great way to manage your day-to-day life. A balanced diet and physical activity are important for health and well-being.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in today's society. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern society like being a good parent or partner as well as managing a household and doing well at work. This makes it more difficult to deal with ADHD and increase the chance that mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, 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, and an inability to feel confident about themselves. Symptoms of the condition can also become worse during times of hormonal changes, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Additionally, many people who suffer from ADHD have co-existing mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way that symptoms manifest and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available for girls and women suffering from ADHD. This includes a variety of online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website has a page dedicated to girls and women and includes helpful information and events. This includes peer support meetings and a forum where users can ask questions.
If an employee has significant ADHD issues it is recommended that they contact their GP for an assessment. The doctor will be able to direct them to the appropriate service that could be a mental health clinic or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to keep in mind that some individuals are unable to be admitted to an assessment due to a lack clinical awareness or long waiting periods. It could be that their issues are attributed to another issue, such as a addiction or mental illness, and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD can be considered an "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a significant impact on a person's employment. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. signs of add in adult women could be the ability to work from home or 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 wellbeing and occupational health interventions including e-learning modules, mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. Contact us today to find out more about our support for your business.