ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still under-diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to spot due to the fact that they look different from those of men. This is exacerbated by hormonal changes like the menstrual period and pregnancy or menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may be embarrassed by asking for help and fear that their healthcare provider will not be able to take them seriously. Some women have difficulty finding treatment providers who understand their condition and how it affects their lives as an adult.
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulty paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted, and impulsivity. Women are more likely to have the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattention symptoms include issues with planning, organisation, forgetfulness or having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, getting distracted easily and forgetting what you spoke about during the course of a conversation.
Women may also have difficulties controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be more prone to anger-related outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have issues with social relationships. They might have trouble writing or struggling with math and spelling skills. They may also have difficulty adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy choices for their diet.
It's also harder to spot ADHD symptoms for women than for men due to gender-based stereotypes about sex and behaviour. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, especially at school, where they are often mistakenly identified as suffering from depression or anxiety.
Many women with ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal periods. As women transition into menopause they produce less estrogen. This can exacerbate symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their physician.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their problems with coworkers or teachers to discover what accommodations they may be able to ask for to improve their performance at work or in school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their boss or professor, some do so with ease and find that their workplaces and schools are more than willing to offer reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you think you might have ADHD, it's important to visit your GP. Your doctor can refer to an expert, or diagnose you based on the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes looking at your symptoms over time, your past medical history and any issues they may have caused.
Women are more difficult to diagnose than males because many healthcare professionals don't recognize the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. These include during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the run-up to menopause) and the menopausal phase itself.
The signs of ADHD can also affect relationships, work and school. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs and be at risk for depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances, making decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
Contact your employer if you're struggling to concentrate or focusing on work. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home for a few hours. You can also ask about support services like Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial support.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological disorder Your symptoms aren't caused by being lazy or having low self-esteem. You can still be successful and achieve your goals. It may just require some more effort and planning.
If you're a woman with ADHD, you will find more information on the NHS website. You can also reach out to a private organization that provides ADHD tests. They might charge a fee however, you'll be evaluated by a trained professional. They will also provide assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, seeking treatment and coping with workplace issues. If you're employed and have a disability, they can tell you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. attention deficit in women can provide money to help with things such as special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The drugs used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any adverse effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular check-ups with your GP are recommended to monitor your or your child's progress and ensure that the medication is working properly.
Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD for adults include inattention, difficulty completing tasks, impulsive behaviors poor organizational skills and trouble staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time, and are often affected by life events such as pregnancy, menopause, and hormone changes.
Behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment for many people with ADHD. By changing weblink act and think, you can reduce your symptoms as well as improve your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of behavior and thinking.
CBT can be conducted in a group or one-on-one with an therapy. Some people discover that eating a balanced well-balanced diet and exercising regularly are also helpful. It is crucial to consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is important for girls and women suffering from ADHD to seek out assistance from their families, colleagues and friends. They can also join support groups to meet other women who have the same condition and exchange experiences.
Women with ADHD are also able to benefit from a mix of treatment options including treatment with medication and behavioural therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation such as planners are beneficial in managing their day-to-day 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 women and girls with ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in our modern society. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern life including being a good parent or partner, managing a household and performing well at work. This can make it more difficult to cope with ADHD and increase the likelihood that mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, could develop.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD feel unappreciated. They might exhibit emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, as well as low self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition can also become worse during times of hormonal changes, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD also have other mental health issues like depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way in which the symptoms manifest and may make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available for girls and women with ADHD. There are numerous online resources, support groups and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls with helpful information, events, and support groups. There are peer support groups and an online 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 doctor can recommend the employee to a service that's most appropriate, such as an in-home mental service or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It is important to be aware that due to the lack of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some people are unable to be referred for an assessment. This could be because their problems are thought 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 or work, it may be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include the possibility of a flexible work schedule or additional training and support at work.
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