ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still under-diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to the individual and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to recognize because they appear differently than those of men. This is also exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have trouble telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed about seeking help and worry that their healthcare provider won't take them seriously. Some women have difficulty finding healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it affects them as an adult.
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically characterized by impulsivity, forgetfulness and a difficult time staying focused. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties with organisation, planning and forgetfulness, or being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, getting distracted easily, and not remembering what you spoke about during a conversation.
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 relationships. They might have poor handwriting or struggle with math and spelling skills. They might be unable to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy food choices.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sex and behavior, it's difficult for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women with hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-linked symptoms may have more trouble being recognised as having the disorder, particularly in schools, where they frequently are misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
In addition to that, many women with ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal cycles. This is because when women start to go through menopausal changes, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and talk about the symptoms with their doctor or specialist.
It can also be beneficial for women to talk about their issues with colleagues or teachers to discover what accommodations they may be able to ask for to enhance their performance at work or in school. Many people with ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their boss or professor however, some have found success in doing so and finding that their workplaces and school are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD is a must to see your GP. adhd symptoms in women may refer you to a specialist or give you an assessment based on the criteria 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.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than males because many healthcare professionals don't recognise the way ADHD presents in females. This can result in delays in the diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at various times throughout a woman's life, depending on the hormonal changes. These include pregnancy, menstruation (the run-up before menopause), perimenopause, and menopausal.
ADHD symptoms can affect work, school, and relationships. In adulthood, this can result in having difficulty keeping a job or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of substance use depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also create difficulties with managing finances, making decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
If you're having difficulty focusing or focusing at work, speak with your employer. You may be able to get help by taking more breaks or working from home at times. You can also inquire about support services, such as Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological issue Your symptoms aren't caused by being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You can still be successful and reach your goals. It's just going to require some more planning and effort.
If you're a woman suffering from ADHD you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also reach out to a private organization that provides ADHD assessments. You may be charged an amount, but you will be assessed by a qualified professional. They can provide advice and assistance in applying for benefits, locating solutions and dealing with workplace issues. If you're working and have a disability, they can tell you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. This could provide funds to assist with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD might be prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. The medications prescribed can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any side effects with your GP prior to implementing treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also advised to track your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is working properly.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD in adults is inattention, difficulties finishing tasks, impulsive behavior poor organizational skills and difficulties staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms may change over time and are frequently influenced by life events such as menopausal, pregnancy, and hormone changes.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. Changes in the behavior and thoughts you make can improve your symptoms and boost self-esteem. Girls and women who suffer from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which is a kind of talking therapy that helps you change negative patterns of thought and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, or in a group. Some people discover that eating a balanced eating plan, exercising regularly are also helpful. It is crucial to speak with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is important for girls and women suffering from ADHD to seek out support from their family members, colleagues and friends. They can also join support groups to connect with other women who have the same problem and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD could also benefit from a mix treatment strategy, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Being active enough can improve concentration and mood, while eating a balanced and healthy diet is essential for overall health and wellbeing.
In our modern world women and girls with ADHD are being put under a lot of pressure and stress. These are often due to the pressures of modern-day society including being a good partner or parent, managing a household and performing well at work. This can make it more difficult to deal with ADHD and increase the risk that other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, will develop.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD often feel misunderstood by people around them. They might experience emotional symptoms such as irritability, mood swings and a lack of self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition can also worsen during periods of hormonal changes, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can impact the way symptoms are perceived and make it more difficult to manage.
There is a lot of help for women and girls who suffer from ADHD. There are many online support groups, resources, and charitable organizations. adhd symptoms for women includes a section dedicated to women and girls with useful information and events. This includes peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant difficulties with their ADHD, they can contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor can direct them to the appropriate service that could be a local mental health facility or a specialist neurodevelopmental service. It is important to be aware that due to the lack of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some people find it hard to be assessed. This might be because their challenges are thought to be due to another issue, like mental health issues or addiction, not ADHD.
Also, it's important to note that ADHD could be regarded as a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. 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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