ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still under-diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost for both individuals and the economy.
Symptoms can be more difficult to recognise in females because they present differently to males. This is exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD can have a hard in telling their health care providers that they are suffering from the condition. They may feel embarrassed about seeking help and worry that their healthcare provider won't take them seriously. Some women also have trouble finding treatment providers that understand the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.
Adults with ADHD are often identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to be affected by the inattentive kind of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with organisation and planning, being forgetful or missing appointments, not finishing tasks, being easily distracted, or not remembering what was said during conversations.
Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be more prone to anger-related outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have issues with social relationships. They may have difficulty with spelling or math. They may also find it difficult to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy choices for their diet.
Because of gender-based stereotypes about sex and behavior, it's harder for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-linked symptoms may have more trouble being recognised as having the disorder, especially at schools, where they frequently are misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Additionally that, many women suffering from ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during perimenopause and menopause. This is because when women enter menopausal changes their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can worsen the symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their doctor or specialist.
It can also be helpful for women to talk about their problems with coworkers or teachers to find out what accommodations they might be able to ask for to enhance their performance at work or in school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their professor or boss about their issues they have ADHD, some do it with success and find 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 determine if you have ADHD using the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include looking at your symptoms over time, your history and any problems they've caused.
Many healthcare professionals don't recognize the ways in which ADHD manifests in women. This can lead to delays in getting diagnosed and receiving treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. This includes menstruation, pregnancy (the run-up before menopause), perimenopause, and menopause.
Symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs, and be at risk for substance abuse, depression anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges with managing finances as well as making decisions and having to manage multiple priorities.
Contact your employer if struggling to concentrate or focusing on work. There may be solutions, such as giving you more breaks or permitting you to work from home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial assistance.
Also, be aware that ADHD is a neurological condition. Your symptoms aren't due to laziness or low self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and succeed. It may just take a bit more planning and effort.
If you're a woman suffering from ADHD You can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private organizations that offer ADHD assessments. You could be charged a fee 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 help you determine if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can offer money to help with things like specialised equipment or adaptations 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 important to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to monitor your or your child's progress and make sure the medication is working properly.
Adults suffering from ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can alter as time passes and are frequently influenced by life events, such as hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopausal.
I Am Psychiatry is a successful treatment for a large number of people suffering from ADHD. By changing the way you behave and think, you can reduce your symptoms and improve your self-esteem. Women and girls who have ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) which is a type of talking therapy that helps you to alter negative patterns of thought and behaviour.
CBT can be done in one-on-one sessions with a therapist or in groups. Some people find that eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly are also helpful. But it is important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is important for women and girls with ADHD to receive support from their family, colleagues and friends. They can join support groups to connect with other women who suffer from the same problem and share experiences.
Women with ADHD could also benefit from a combination treatment method, such as behavioral therapy and medication. Utilizing tools for organisation like planners can be helpful in managing their day-today lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Getting enough physical activity can help improve mood and focus while eating a balanced and healthy diet is essential for overall health and wellbeing.
Many girls and women with ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in today's society. These can be related 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 chance of mental health issues that are developing, like depression or anxiety.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD are often not understood. They may experience emotional symptoms such as irritability as well as mood swings and low self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder may also worsen when there are hormonal changes, like during pregnancy or menstruation. Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way symptoms are perceived and make it more difficult to manage.
There is plenty of support for women and girls who suffer from ADHD. This includes a variety of online support groups, resources, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that provides important information, events and support groups. This includes peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is suffering from significant difficulties with their ADHD and has a significant problem with their ADHD, they should contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The GP will be able to refer them to the appropriate service that could be a local mental health service or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It's important to remember that some individuals find it difficult to be admitted to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting times. This could be due to the fact that their problems are thought to be caused by a different issue, like a mental health problem or an addiction, instead of ADHD.
It's also worth noting that ADHD is an "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a significant impact on a person's employment. 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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