ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is not yet diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This results in a significant cost to both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to spot because they look different than those of males. This can be further aggravated by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have a difficult to tell their health care providers that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may be embarrassed by asking for help and fear that their health care provider won't take them seriously. Women also face difficulties finding treatment providers who understand the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulty paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted and the tendency to be impulsive. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with organisation and planning and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not completing tasks, becoming easily distracted or forgetting the words spoken during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. adhd traits in women can be susceptible to anger outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have issues with social interactions. They may struggle with math or spelling. They might be unable to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy choices for their diet.
Because of gender-based stereotypes about sexuality and behavior, it's difficult for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women with hyperactive or impulsive ADHD symptoms might be more difficult to identify as having the disorder, especially at school, where they often get misdiagnosed for anxiety or depression.
Additionally, many women with ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during menopausal or perimenopausal periods. This is due to the fact that as women start to go through menopausal symptoms their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can exacerbate the symptoms. This is why it is crucial for women to be aware of their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor or a specialist.
It can also be 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 in school. Many people who suffer from ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their boss or professor however some have had the right solution and are discovering that their employers and schools are happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
It is essential to see your GP in the event that you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor can refer to a specialist, or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at your symptoms, your history and any issues they might have caused.
Many healthcare professionals do not recognize the ways in which ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in the diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may get worse based on the hormonal changes occurring in a woman's body at different stages of her life. These include during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the run-up to menopause), and the menopause itself.
The signs of ADHD can also affect relationships at work, school and social. In adulthood, this may result in having difficulty 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 can also cause difficulties with managing finances, making crucial decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
If you are having trouble concentrating or paying attention at work, speak with your employer. You may be able to get help by taking more breaks or working from home for a few hours. You may also inquire about support services like Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
It is important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Your symptoms are not the result of lack of motivation or self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and meet your goals. It might just take some more effort and planning.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD You will find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies which offer ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of a fee but you will be assessed by a professional. They can provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, finding solutions to workplace issues. They can also tell you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This can offer money to help with things such as special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is important to discuss possible side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to track the growth of your child's or yourself and make sure that the medication is working.
Adults with ADHD often show signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulties staying focused or recalling things. The symptoms can change over time, and are frequently influenced by life events such as menopausal or pregnancy-related hormone changes.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. Changing the ways you think and behave can reduce the symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. Girls and women suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be carried out in a group or one-on-one with a therapy. Other treatments that some people find beneficial are following a healthy diet, trying to avoid sugary or caffeine-rich foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. It is essential to talk with your physician prior to making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Girls and women with ADHD need to seek help from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can also join support groups to connect with other women with similar conditions and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a combination of treatment options, such as treatment with medication and behavioural therapy. Organising their daily lives and keeping track deadlines using planners is an effective way to manage your daily life. Getting enough physical activity can help improve concentration and mood while eating a balanced diet is vital to overall health and well-being.
In modern society there are many girls and women who with ADHD are under a lot of stress and pressure. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern life like being a good partner or parent or managing a household, as well as performing well at work. This can increase the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and increase the risk of other mental health conditions being developed, including anxiety or depression.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They may be afflicted by emotional issues such as irritability, mood swings and a feeling of not being confident in themselves. The symptoms of ADHD can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menstruation. Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. These can impact the way that their symptoms manifest and can be more difficult to manage.
There is plenty of help available for girls and women who suffer 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 that features useful information, events and support groups. These include peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant difficulties with their ADHD and has a significant problem with their ADHD, they should contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The GP can refer them to the appropriate service that could be a mental health clinic or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. However, it is important to remember that due to a lack of awareness about clinical issues and long waiting times, some patients are unable to be admitted for an assessment. This could be due to the fact that their issues are believed to be caused by another issue, such as mental health issues or addiction, instead of ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if a person's ADHD has a significant impact on their work and performance, it could be deemed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. 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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