ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is not yet diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy.
Females' symptoms are more difficult to recognize because they look different than the men's. This can be exacerbated also by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed seeking help and worry that their health care provider won't take them seriously. Some women have difficulty finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it affects them as they grow older.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are typically characterized by impulsivity, forgetfulness, and difficulty staying focused. Women are more likely to be affected by the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattention-related symptoms include issues with planning and organisation and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not finishing tasks, becoming easily distracted or forgetting what was said in conversations.
signs of add in adult women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be prone to anger outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have issues with social relationships. They may struggle with math or spelling. They may also have trouble adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy food choices.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sexuality and behavior, it's harder for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a difficult time getting identified, especially at school where they are often misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Many women suffering from ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopause. As women transition into menopausal stage, they produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor.
Women can also benefit from discussing their concerns with co-workers and teachers to determine what accommodations they can ask for to boost their performance at work or at school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their professor or boss, some do so with success and find that their workplaces and schools are more than willing to make reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It is important to visit your GP when you suspect that you may have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include a look at the symptoms you are experiencing, your history as well as any problems they may have caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than males, as many healthcare professionals don't recognize the way ADHD manifests in females. This can cause delays in the diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the signs of ADHD can worsen at various times throughout women's lives, based on the hormonal changes. This includes menstruation, pregnancy (the menopausal cycle) menopausal, perimenopausal, and menopausal.
Symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships as well as school and work. Adults might have trouble maintaining a job or relationship and be at risk for depression, substance abuse, anxiety and low self-esteem. It could also cause difficulties in managing finances, making crucial decisions and balancing many priorities.
Talk to your employer if you're struggling to concentrate or paying close attention at work. You might be able to receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home at times. You might also want to inquire about support services, such as Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological issue and your symptoms aren't due to being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and meet your goals. It's just going to take a bit more planning and effort.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact a private organisation that offers ADHD assessments. They may charge an amount however, you'll be inspected by a qualified professional. They can offer assistance and advice on claiming benefits, finding solutions to workplace issues. They can also advise you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you're employed. This can offer money to assist with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is important to discuss any potential adverse effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to track the growth of your child's or yourself, and to ensure that the medication is effective.
Adults who suffer from ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, poor organization as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulties staying focused or recalling things. The symptoms can change over time and are often affected by life events like menopausal or pregnancy-related hormone changes.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be an effective treatment. By changing the way you act and think, you can lessen your symptoms as well as improve your self-esteem. Women and girls who have ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT) which is a type of therapy for talking that helps you change negative patterns of thought and behaviour.
CBT can be carried out in one-on-one sessions with a therapist or in a group. Other therapies that many find helpful are eating an wholesome diet, attempting to avoid sugary or caffeine-rich foods and getting plenty of exercise. But it is important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Girls and women with ADHD need to seek help from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can also join a support group to meet other women who have the same condition and share their experiences.
Women with ADHD can also benefit from a mix of treatment methods, such as therapy and medication. Making use of tools for organization, such as planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. A balanced diet and physical exercise are vital to health and wellbeing.
Many girls and women with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. These are often related to the pressures of being a responsible parent or partner, managing household duties and performing well at work. This can add to the difficulties of dealing with ADHD, and can increase the chance of other mental health issues being developed, including anxiety or depression.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are often unappreciated. They may exhibit emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, and an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of ADHD can also worsen during periods of hormonal change like menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals who suffer from ADHD have co-existing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms present and make it more difficult to manage.
There is a lot of support for women and girls who have ADHD. There are many online resources, support groups, and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website features a page dedicated to women and girls and includes helpful 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 will be able to direct them to the appropriate service, which could be a community mental health facility or a specialist neurodevelopmental service. It is important to note that some individuals are unable to be assessed because of a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting periods. It could be that their issues may be due to another issue, such as mental illness or addiction, and not ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if someone's ADHD significantly impacts their work or work, it may be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be an able-bodied working schedule, or additional training and support at work.
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