ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still under-diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to individuals and the economy.
Females' symptoms are more difficult to identify because they look different than the men's. It can also be caused by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD can have a hard to tell their health care providers that they are suffering from the condition. They may be uncomfortable asking for help, and are afraid that their doctor won't be able to take the issue seriously. Some women have difficulty finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it impacts their lives as an adult.
Adults with ADHD are typically characterized by impulsivity, forgetfulness and a lack of focus. Women are more susceptible to the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include issues with planning and organisation and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not completing tasks, getting distracted easily, or not remembering what was said during conversations.
Women also have a tendency to have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses, making them more prone to explode in anger, become wildly emotional, and have trouble with social relationships. They may struggle with math or spelling. They might also find it difficult to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy choices for their diet.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sex and behavior, it's more difficult for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a harder time being diagnosed, particularly at school, where they are often misdiagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety.
Many women who suffer from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopause. As women begin to enter menopause they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their doctor or specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to talk about their issues with colleagues or teachers to find out what accommodations they might be able to ask for to enhance their performance at work or at school. Many people suffering from ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their boss or professor however some have had success in doing this and finding that their workplaces and schools are willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you think you might have ADHD is a must to consult your GP. 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 may include examining your symptoms over time, your medical history and any issues they may have caused.
Women are more difficult to diagnose than men as a lot of healthcare professionals don't recognise the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can lead to delays in getting diagnosed and receiving treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. These include pregnancy, menstruation (the menopausal cycle) as well as perimenopausal and menopausal.
ADHD symptoms can also impact work, school, and relationships. Adults may have difficulty maintaining relationships or jobs and be at risk for substance abuse, depression anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. high functioning adhd in women can also lead to difficulties with managing finances as well as making decisions and managing multiple priorities.
Talk to your employer if you are having difficulty focusing or focusing at work. There may be ways to help, such as providing you with more breaks or allowing you to work at home on occasion. You can also ask about support services such as Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial assistance.
You should also remember that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Your symptoms are not the result of lack of motivation or self-esteem. You can still be successful and achieve your goals. It's just going to take some extra effort and planning.
If you're a woman with ADHD, you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private organisations that provide ADHD assessments. They might charge fees however, you'll be evaluated by a qualified professional. They also provide assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, seeking treatment and coping with workplace issues. They can also help you determine whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This can provide money to help with things such as specialised equipment or adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD may be prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. However, it is important to discuss any possible side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also advised to track your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is effective.
Adults who suffer from ADHD often show signs of carelessness, poor organization as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulty staying on task or recollecting information. The symptoms can alter as time passes and are frequently caused by life events like hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopause.
Behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. Changes in the behavior and thoughts you make can improve your symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of behavior and thinking.
CBT can be carried out in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, or in a group. Other treatments that some people find helpful are eating a balanced diet, trying to avoid sugary or caffeine-rich foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. It is important to consult your physician prior to making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for women and girls with ADHD to seek out support from their family members, colleagues and friends. They can join support groups in order to meet women with similar conditions and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD could also benefit from a mix treatment approach, like treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Organising their lives and keeping track deadlines with the help of planners is a great method to manage your day-to-day routine. A balanced diet and physical activity are important for health and well-being.
In our modern world women and girls with ADHD are under a lot of pressure and stress. These can be related to the pressures of being a caring parent or partner, managing household chores and performing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the likelihood of other mental health issues that are developing, like anxiety or depression.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD feel misunderstood. They may exhibit emotions such as anger and mood swings, as well as an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of the condition can also become worse when there are hormonal changes, for example during menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety and depression. These conditions can alter the way their symptoms appear and 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 variety of online support groups, resources, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls with useful information, events and support groups. This includes peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing severe difficulties with their ADHD and has a significant problem with their ADHD, they should contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor can recommend the employee to a service that's most appropriate, such as a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopment specialist service. However, it is important to be aware that due to the lack of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some patients have difficulty getting referred for an assessment. It may be that their problems are attributed to another issue, such as a addiction or mental illness, and not ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if someone's ADHD has a significant impact on their work and performance, it could be deemed a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They are entitled to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be the possibility of a flexible work schedule or additional training and assistance at work.
Optima Health can help businesses establish an internal culture that promotes wellbeing and helps their employees. We provide a variety of occupational health and wellbeing interventions including e-learning modules, mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. Contact us today to learn more about our assistance for your business.