ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized for girls and women. This results in a significant cost to both the individual and the economy.
Females' symptoms are more difficult to spot because they appear differently than those of men. This can also be caused by hormonal changes such as the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD can have a hard to tell their medical professionals that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may be embarrassed by seeking help and worry that their healthcare provider won't take them seriously. Some women have difficulty finding treatment providers who understand the condition and how it affects them as an adult woman.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted, and the tendency to be impulsive. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties in planning, organisation, forgetfulness or missing appointments, not completing tasks, being distracted easily and not being able to remember what you spoke about during an interaction.
Women also have a tendency to have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses, which makes them more prone to explode in anger, become overly emotional, and have issues with social interactions. They may struggle with handwriting or with spelling and math. They may also find it difficult to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy food choices.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sex and behavior, it's more difficult for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-linked symptoms may have a harder time being recognized as having the disorder, especially in schools, where they frequently 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 begin to enter menopause, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can exacerbate the symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to keep track of their symptoms and talk about them with their doctor or a specialist.
Women also benefit from discussing their symptoms with their colleagues and teachers to determine what accommodations they can ask for to boost their performance in the workplace or at school. Many people with ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor however, some have found the right solution and are finding that their workplaces and school are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It is important to visit your GP when you suspect that you might have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or give you an diagnosis based on 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.
Many healthcare professionals don't know how ADHD manifests in women. This can cause delays in the diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at different times in the woman's life, based on the hormonal changes. These include during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the period leading up to menopausal) and menopausal symptoms itself.
ADHD symptoms can also affect the work environment, school and relationships. As adults, this could result in having difficulty maintaining a job or in a relationship, as well as being at risk of substance misuse, 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 paying attention in work, speak with your employer. There may be ways to help, like giving you more breaks or permitting you to work from home occasionally. You may also inquire about support services like Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological condition, so your symptoms aren't due to being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You can still be successful and achieve your goals. It's just going to require some more planning and effort.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD, you can learn more about it on the NHS website. adhd in women checklist can also reach out to a private organization that provides ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of for a fee, but you will be assessed by a professional. They can offer advice and assistance in the benefits you're entitled to, how to access solutions and dealing with workplace issues. If you're working and have a disability, they can tell you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance and Access to Work. This can help pay for things like specialized equipment and adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD may be prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The medications prescribed can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to monitor the progress of your child or yourself and make sure that the medication is working.
Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are carelessness, difficulty finishing tasks, impulsive behavior poor organisational skills, and trouble staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can alter over time and are often affected by life events, like hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be an effective treatment. By changing the way you act and think, you can reduce your symptoms as well as improve your self-esteem. Women and girls with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral 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 setting or one-on-one with a Therapist. Other treatments that some people find beneficial are following an wholesome diet, attempting to avoid sugary or caffeine-rich foods and getting plenty of exercise. It is crucial to speak with your physician before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is essential for girls and women with ADHD to seek out support from their family members, colleagues and friends. They can also join a support group to meet other women who have the same condition and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD can also benefit from a combination of treatment options, such as therapy and medication. Utilizing tools for organisation like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are important for health and well-being.
In modern society women and girls with ADHD are being put under a lot of stress and pressure. This can be due to the pressures of being a loving spouse or parent, running household duties and performing well at work. This can add to the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and may increase the likelihood of other mental health issues being developed, including depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They may be afflicted by emotional issues like irritability, mood swings, and a low self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder can also become worse when there are hormonal changes, like during pregnancy or menstruation. Many people with ADHD also have other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms manifest and can be more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of help available to girls and women suffering from ADHD. There are many online resources, support groups and charities. ADHD UK's website features an entire page devoted to women and girls, which includes useful information and events. There are peer support groups as well as a forum for people to 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 the patient to a treatment that is 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 absence of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some people have difficulty getting assessed. It could be that their difficulties are due to a different issue, like a addiction or mental illness and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that if an individual's ADHD affects their work in a significant way or work, it may be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have the legal right to make reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could mean the ability to work from home or support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an internal culture of wellness and support for their employees. We provide a variety of occupational health and wellness interventions including e-learning modules, coaching programmes and mindfulness workshops. If you'd like to know more about how we can help your business, get in touch now.