ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still not properly diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This comes at a high cost to both the individual and the economy.
These symptoms are more difficult to recognise in females since they manifest differently to men. It can also be worsened by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD may have a difficult time telling their healthcare providers that they are suffering from the condition. They might be shy to seek assistance, and they are worried that their doctor won't consider it seriously. Women may find it difficult to find healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it affects them as they grow older.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are typically marked by impulsivity, apathy and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattention symptoms include issues with organisation, planning forgetfulness, having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, being distracted easily and forgetting what you said during a conversation.
Women may also have difficulties controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be more prone to anger-related outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have issues with social interactions. They may have poor handwriting or struggle with spelling and math. They may also have difficulty keeping up with their exercise routines or making healthy choices for their diet.
It's also harder to spot ADHD symptoms in women than in men because of gender-based stereotypes about sex and behaviour. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might be more difficult to be diagnosed, especially at school, where they are often mistakenly diagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety.
Many women who suffer from ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal periods. As women transition into menopausal they produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. Therefore, it is essential for women to monitor their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their doctor or a specialist.
It can also be beneficial for women to discuss their symptoms with co-workers or teachers to discover what accommodations they might be able to ask for to improve their performance at work or in school. Many people who suffer from ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their boss or professor however some have had the right solution and are finding that their workplaces and school are more than happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
If you think you might have ADHD, it's important to see your GP. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or determine if you have ADHD using 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 problems they've caused.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than males as a lot of healthcare professionals don't recognise the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can result in delays in obtaining a diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the signs of ADHD can become worse at various times throughout a woman's life, depending on the hormonal changes. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy (the run-up before menopause) as well as perimenopausal and menopausal.
Symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships, work and school. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs, and be at risk for depression, substance abuse, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges in managing finances making decisions, and managing multiple priorities.
If you have difficulty 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 on occasion. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can provide financial and practical assistance.
Also, remember that ADHD is a neurologic condition. Your symptoms aren't caused by lack of motivation or self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and achieve your goals. It might just take some more effort and planning.
Find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact a private organisation that offers ADHD assessments. They might charge fees, but you'll be assessed by a qualified professional. They can offer advice and assistance in the benefits you're entitled to, how to access treatments and dealing with workplace issues. If you're employed, they can advise on whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance and Access to Work. This could help you pay for things like specialized equipment and adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD are prescribed medications to treat their symptoms. The medications used are stimulants and non-stimulants, but it is crucial to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to monitor the growth of your child's or yourself and make sure that the medication is working.
Adults suffering from ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, poor organization, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can change with time and are usually influenced by life events, like hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopause.
Behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. The way you think and behave can help reduce your symptoms and boost self-esteem. Women and girls with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be conducted in one-on-one sessions, with a therapist, or in groups. additional hints are able to benefit from eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly can be beneficial. But it is important to consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women suffering from ADHD to receive support from their family, colleagues and friends. They can also join support groups to connect with other women who have the same condition and exchange experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a mix of treatment options like medication and behavioural therapy. Making use of tools for organization, like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Being active enough can help improve the mood and focus while eating a balanced diet is vital to overall health and well-being.
Many women and girls with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in our modern society. These are often due to the pressures of modern society like being a good parent or partner or managing a household, as well as being productive at work. This could make it harder to manage ADHD and increase the risk that other mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, will develop.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD feel unappreciated. They might exhibit emotions such as anger and mood fluctuations, as well as a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also worsen during periods of hormonal change like menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also have other mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms present and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of help available to girls and women suffering from ADHD. This includes a variety of online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website includes a page dedicated to girls and women and includes helpful information and events. These include peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee has significant ADHD issues it is recommended that they contact their GP to have an assessment. The GP can refer them to the appropriate service, which could be a mental health service or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to remember that due to a lack of awareness about clinical issues and long waiting times, some individuals are unable to be referred for an assessment. It could be that their issues are attributed to another issue, like a addiction or mental illness and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. This means they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include a flexible working schedule, additional training or support at work.
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