ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still under-diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This is a huge cost for both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to spot because they look different than those of males. This can be exacerbated also by hormonal changes such as the menstrual period and pregnancy or menopausal.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD might have a difficult in telling their healthcare providers that they have symptoms of the condition. They may feel embarrassed about asking for help and fear that their health care provider won't take them seriously. Women also face difficulties finding treatment providers who understand the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted, and the tendency to be impulsive. Women are more susceptible to the inattention type of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties with organisation, planning and forgetfulness, or having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, becoming easily distracted, and not remembering what you said in an interaction.
Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be prone to anger outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have issues with social relationships. They might have trouble writing or struggling with spelling and math. They might also have difficulty to maintain a consistent routine of exercise or make healthy choices for their diet.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior, it's harder for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a harder time being diagnosed, particularly at school, where they are often mistakenly diagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Additionally to that, many women with ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during perimenopause and menopause. This is due to the fact that as women start to go through 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 these with their doctor or specialist.
It is also beneficial for women to talk about their issues with colleagues or teachers to find out what accommodations they might be able to request to enhance their performance at work or in school. Many people suffering from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their professor or boss however, some have found the right solution and are discovering that their employers and schools are happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
It is essential to see your GP in the event that you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor can refer to a specialist, or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at your symptoms, your history, and any problems that they might have caused.
Many healthcare professionals do not recognise how ADHD manifests in women. This can lead to delays in the diagnosis and treatment. attention deficit disorder in women of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. These include pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the menopausal transition) and the menopausal phase itself.
The symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships at work, school and social. As adults, this could be a problem keeping a job or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of use, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It could also cause difficulties in managing finances, making important decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
Talk to your employer if you're struggling to concentrate or focusing on work. You may be able get help by taking more breaks or working from home at times. You may also inquire about support services, such as Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
Also, remember that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Your symptoms aren't caused by laziness or low self-esteem. You can still succeed and reach your goals. It's just going to require a little more planning and effort.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD, you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private organisations that offer ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of a fee but you will be evaluated by a professional. They can offer advice and guidance about the benefits you're entitled to, how to access treatments and dealing with workplace issues. They can also help you determine whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can offer money to help with things like specific equipment or adaptations for the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD are often prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants, but it is essential to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also recommended to keep track of your child's progress and ensure that the medication is working properly.
Adults who suffer from ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or recalling things. The symptoms can change with time and are usually influenced by life events, like hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopausal.
Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for a large number of people suffering from ADHD. The behavior and thoughts you make can improve your symptoms and boost self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of behavior and thinking.
CBT can be done in a group or individually with a Therapist. Other treatments that some people consider beneficial include eating a healthy diet, trying to avoid sugary or caffeine-rich foods and getting plenty of exercise. It is crucial to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is essential for girls and women suffering from ADHD to seek out support from their family members, colleagues and friends. They can join support groups to meet other women who suffer from the same condition and exchange experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from a combination of treatment methods including medication and behavioural therapy. Using organisation tools like planners can be beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Being active enough can help improve the mood and focus and eating a balanced diet is essential for overall health and wellbeing.
In our modern world, many women and girls with ADHD are in a constant state of pressure and stress. These are often due to the pressures of modern-day society, such as being a good parent or partner as well as managing a household and performing well at work. This can make it more difficult to deal with ADHD and increase the likelihood that other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, could develop.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD feel not understood. They might exhibit emotions such as anger and mood swings, and an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of ADHD can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, for example menstrual or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals who suffer from ADHD have co-existing mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way in which their symptoms present and make it more difficult to manage.
There is plenty of help available for women and girls who have ADHD. This includes a variety of online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website has a section dedicated to girls and women with useful information and events. These include peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee has significant ADHD problems, they should contact their GP to get an assessment. The doctor will be able to send them to the appropriate service that could be a local mental health facility or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to note that some individuals find it difficult to be referred to an assessment due to a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting periods. It could be that their difficulties are attributed to another issue, like a addiction or mental illness and not ADHD.
It's also important to know that ADHD could be regarded as to be a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. This means that they have the legal right to make reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an environment of wellbeing and support for their employees. We provide a variety of wellbeing and occupational health interventions including e-learning modules, mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. Contact us today to learn more about our assistance for your business.