ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not diagnosed in girls and women. This comes at a high cost for both individuals and the economy.
These symptoms are more difficult to recognise for females due to the fact that they appear differently to men. This can be exacerbated also by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may be shy to seek help, and are afraid that their doctor won't consider the condition seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding treatment providers who understand their condition and how it impacts them as an adult.
Adults with ADHD are typically characterized by impulsivity, forgetfulness and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to have the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattention symptoms may include issues with planning and organisation and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not completing tasks, becoming easily distracted, or not remembering the words spoken during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be susceptible to anger outbursts, become overly emotional and have issues with social relationships. They may struggle with spelling or math. They may also have difficulty maintaining consistent exercise habits or making healthy food choices.
Due to gender-based stereotypes of sexuality and behavior, it's difficult for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, particularly at school where they are often mistakenly identified as having anxiety or depression.
In addition, many women with ADHD experience worsening symptoms during perimenopause and menopause. As women begin to enter menopausal stage and produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their physician.
Women also benefit from discussing their concerns with colleagues and teachers to find out what accommodations they could make to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people suffering from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their professor or boss however, some have found the right solution and are finding that their workplaces and school are more than happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
It's important that you see your GP if you suspect you might have ADHD. 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 may include a review of the symptoms you are experiencing, your history, and any problems that could have been caused by them.
Women are more difficult to diagnose than men, as many health professionals aren't aware of the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can result in delays in getting a diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at different times during a woman's life, depending on hormonal changes. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy (the period before menopausal) menopausal, perimenopausal, and menopause.
The signs of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. In adulthood, this can result in having difficulty keeping a job or being in a relationship, and being at risk of use, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances, making critical decisions and balancing many priorities.
If you're having difficulty focusing or paying attention at work, speak to your employer. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home at times. You may also inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can offer both financial and practical assistance.
You should also be aware that ADHD is a neurologic condition. Your symptoms aren't caused by laziness or low self-esteem. You can still be successful and reach your goals. It may just require some more planning and effort.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact a private organization that provides ADHD tests. You may be charged for a fee, but you will be evaluated by a professional. They can also offer advice and guidance on claiming benefits, seeking treatment and coping with workplace issues. If you're employed, they can advise on whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance and Access to Work. This can provide money to assist with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants, though it is important to discuss potential adverse effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to track the progress of your child or yourself and ensure that the medication is effective.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD in adults is inattention, difficulty completing tasks, impulsive behavior poor organisational skills, and difficulties staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can change as time passes and are frequently caused by life events such as hormone changes, pregnancy and menopause.
For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a very effective treatment. The way you think and behave can help reduce your symptoms and boost self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT), which is a form of talking therapy that helps you change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in one-to-one sessions with a therapist, or in groups. Other therapies that many find helpful are eating a healthy diet, trying to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. However, it is essential to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women with ADHD to seek out support from their family members, friends and colleagues. They can join support groups in order to meet women with the same condition and exchange experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from a mixture of treatment methods like medication and behavioural therapy. Organising their daily life and tracking deadlines with the help of planners is a great way to manage your daily life. Being women and adhd enough can improve mood and focus while eating a balanced diet is essential for overall health and wellbeing.
In modern society there are many girls and women who with ADHD are under a lot of stress and pressure. These are often due to the pressures of modern life including being a good partner or parent, managing a household and being productive at work. This can add to the challenges of coping with ADHD and increase the likelihood of other mental health issues being developed, including depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often misunderstood. They may be afflicted by emotional issues such as irritability, mood swings and a low self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also become worse during times of hormonal change like menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms appear and make it harder to manage.
There is a lot of help available for women and girls who have ADHD. This includes a variety of online support groups, resources, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that provides helpful information, events, and support groups. There are peer support groups as well as a forum for people to ask questions.
If an employee is suffering from 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 refer the employee to a treatment that is the most appropriate, for instance a community mental service or a neurodevelopment specialist service. However, it's important to note that due to the absence of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some patients find it hard to be assessed. It could be that their difficulties are attributed to another issue, such as a addiction or mental illness and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that if someone's ADHD significantly impacts their work, it can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have the right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can assist businesses in creating an internal culture of wellness and support for their employees. We offer a variety of occupational health and wellness interventions, such as coaching programs, e-learning modules, and mindfulness workshops. Contact us today to learn more about our assistance for your business.