ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized in women and girls. This is a huge cost to the individual and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to spot due to the fact that they look different from those of males. It can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel uncomfortable asking for help, and are afraid that their doctor won't be able to take the condition seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it affects them as an adult.
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted and impulsivity. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattention-related symptoms include problems with organisation, planning, forgetfulness or being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, being distracted easily and forgetting what you spoke about during the course of a conversation.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses, which makes them more prone to explode in anger, become excessively emotional, and have issues with social interactions. They may have difficulty with math or spelling. They may also have difficulty to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy choices for their diet.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than it is in men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sex and behaviour. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulsive ADHD symptoms might be more difficult to identify as having the disorder, especially in school, where they can are misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Many women with ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal periods. This is due to the fact that as women start to go through menopausal changes their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can worsen the symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
It can also be beneficial for women to discuss their problems with coworkers or teachers to discover what accommodations they might be able to ask for to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people who suffer from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor, but some have found success in doing so and discovering that their workplaces and school are more than happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD, it's important to consult your GP. Your doctor can refer you to an expert or provide you with an diagnosis based on criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include a look at the symptoms you are experiencing, your history and any issues could have been caused by them.
Many healthcare professionals don't know how ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in obtaining diagnosed and receiving treatment. In addition, the signs of ADHD tend to worsen at different times during the woman's life, based on the hormonal changes. These include pregnancy, menstruation (the period before menopausal) as well as perimenopausal and menopause.
The symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships, work and school. As adults, this could be a problem keeping a job, or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of use as well as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It could also cause problems with managing finances, making crucial decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
If you have difficulty concentrating or paying attention in work, talk to your employer. There are ways to help, such as offering more breaks or the option of working from home for a few hours. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological issue, so your symptoms aren't caused by being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and reach your goals. It may just require a little more planning and effort.
If you're a woman with ADHD You can learn more about it on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies that provide ADHD assessments. You could be charged an amount, but you will be evaluated by a qualified professional. They can offer assistance and advice on the benefits you're entitled to, how to access treatments and dealing with workplace issues. They can also tell you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. adhd in older women could help you pay for things like specialised equipment and modifications at the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are able to receive medications to treat their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants. However, it is important to discuss the potential adverse effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP visits are advised to track your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is effective.
Adults suffering from ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or recollecting information. The symptoms can change over time and are often affected by life events like menopausal or pregnancy-related hormonal changes.
For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a successful treatment. The ways you think and behave can help reduce your symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of behavior and thinking.
CBT can be conducted in a group or one-on-one with a therapy. Some people discover that eating a balanced eating plan, exercising regularly are beneficial. It is crucial to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women with ADHD to receive assistance from their families, colleagues and friends. They can also join a support group to meet other women who have similar conditions and share their experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment method, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Using organisation tools like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. Engaging in regular physical activity can improve mood and focus, while eating a balanced diet is vital for overall health and wellbeing.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern society, such as being a good partner or parent or managing a household, as well as doing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD, and can increase the chance of other mental health issues developing, such as depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often unappreciated. They might exhibit emotions such as anger and mood swings, and low self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition can also worsen during periods of hormonal change, 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 alter the way that symptoms manifest and make it more difficult to manage.
There is a lot of help for girls and women who have ADHD. This includes a variety of online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website has a page dedicated to women and girls and includes helpful information and events. This includes peer support groups and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is suffering from significant difficulties with their ADHD or other ADHD-related issues, they should speak to their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor can refer them to the most appropriate service which could be a local mental health facility or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to be aware that due to the absence of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some people are unable to be admitted for an assessment. This might be because their challenges are thought to be due to another issue, such as a mental health problem or addiction, instead of ADHD.
Also, it's worth noting that ADHD could be regarded as to be 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 be a flexible schedule or additional support and training at work.
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