ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still under-diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to individuals and the economy.
adhd symptoms in women are more difficult to recognize in females since they manifest differently to men. It can also be worsened by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They might be embarrassed to ask for assistance, and they are worried that their doctor won't be able to take the issue seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding treatment providers who understand their condition and how it affects them as an adult.
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically marked by impulsivity, apathy and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattention symptoms may include issues with planning and organisation, being forgetful or missing appointments, not completing tasks, being easily distracted or not remembering what was said in conversations.
Women may also have difficulties controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be prone to anger outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have issues with social interactions. They may struggle with spelling or math. They may also have trouble adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy choices for their diet.
It's also harder to spot ADHD symptoms in women than for men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, particularly at school where they're often misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Additionally, many women with ADHD experience worsening symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal cycles. This is because when women start to go through menopausal changes their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
It is also beneficial for women to discuss their problems with coworkers or teachers to discover what accommodations they might be able to request to enhance their performance at work or in school. Many people suffering from ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their professor or boss, but some have found the right solution and are discovering that their workplaces and school are more than happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD it is important to see your GP. Your doctor can refer you to an expert or provide you with an assessment based on the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes looking at your symptoms over time, your history and any issues they may have caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than men as a lot of health professionals aren't aware of the ways ADHD manifests in females. This can result in delays in the diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the signs of ADHD can worsen at different times in a woman's life, depending on hormonal changes. This includes menstruation, pregnancy (the run-up before menopause) menopausal, perimenopausal, and menopause.
The symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships, work and school. In adulthood, this can be a problem keeping a job, or being in a relationship, and being at risk of misuse depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also create difficulties with managing finances making decisions, and managing multiple priorities.
Speak to your employer if you are struggling to concentrate or paying close attention at work. There are solutions, such as giving you more breaks or the option of working from home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial assistance.
It is important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic condition. Your symptoms aren't due to laziness or low self-esteem. You can still be successful and meet your goals. It may just require some more effort and planning.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies that provide ADHD assessments. They might charge a fee, but you'll be assessed by a certified professional. They will also provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, seeking solutions and dealing with workplace issues. They can also tell you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can provide money to help with things such as special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are prescribed medications to treat their symptoms. The medications prescribed can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to check the development of your child or yourself and ensure that the medication is working.
Adults who suffer from ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, poor organization as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulties staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can alter as time passes and are frequently caused by life events like hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a successful treatment. Changes in 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 behavior therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be done in a group setting or one-on-one with the help of a therapist. Other treatments that some people find beneficial are following an wholesome diet, attempting to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich food items, and doing plenty of exercise. It is essential to talk with your physician prior to making any changes in your diet or taking any supplements.
Girls and women with ADHD should seek support from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can also join support groups to meet other women with the same problem and share experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a mix treatment approach, like treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation such as planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. Being active enough can help improve the mood and focus and eating a balanced diet is essential for overall health and well-being.
In modern society women and girls with ADHD are being put under a lot of pressure and stress. These are often related to the expectations of being a loving spouse or parent, running household duties and performing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the risk of other mental health issues that are developing, like depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel misunderstood by people around them. They may experience emotional symptoms like irritability, mood swings, and a lack of self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD may also get worse during times of hormonal changes, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. In addition, many people with ADHD have co-existing mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way that symptoms manifest and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available for women and girls with ADHD. This includes a range of online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website has a page dedicated to women and girls with useful information and events. This includes peer support groups and a forum where users can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD problems and is experiencing significant difficulties with ADHD, they should consult their GP to have an assessment. The GP may refer the patient to a treatment that is most appropriate, such as a community mental service or a neurodevelopmental specialist. However, it's important to be aware that due to a lack of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some patients find it hard to be admitted for an assessment. This could be due to the fact that their issues are believed to be caused by another issue, like mental health issues or an addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also worth noting that ADHD could be regarded as a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could mean an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
Optima Health can help businesses develop an internal culture that promotes wellness and supports their employees. We offer a wide range of occupational health and wellbeing interventions such as e-learning, mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. If you'd like to find out more about how we can assist your company, contact us now.