ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still under-diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This results in a significant cost to both individuals and the economy.
Symptoms can be more difficult to recognise in females since they manifest differently from men. It can also be caused by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
Signs and symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD might have a difficult to tell their healthcare providers that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may feel embarrassed about seeking help and worry that their healthcare provider will not be able to take them seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding treatment providers who understand their condition and how it impacts their lives as an adult.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulty paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted and an impulsive nature. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with organisation and planning as well as being forgetful or unable to remember appointments, not completing tasks, becoming easily distracted or forgetting what was said in conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be susceptible to anger outbursts, become overly emotional and have issues with social interactions. They may have trouble writing or struggling with spelling and math. They may also have difficulty keeping up with their exercise routines 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 exhibit hyperactivity or impulsive ADHD symptoms might be more difficult to identify as having the disorder, especially in school, where they can are misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
In addition, many women with ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal cycles. As women transition into menopausal, they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to monitor their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their doctor or specialist.
Women can also benefit from discussing their symptoms with their co-workers and teachers to determine what accommodations they can make to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people suffering from ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their professor or boss however, some have found success in doing so and discovering that their employers and school are more than happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD, it's important to visit your GP. Your doctor can refer you to an expert, or diagnose you based on the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes looking at your symptoms over time, your past medical history and any issues they may have caused.
Women are more difficult to diagnose than males as a lot of healthcare professionals don't recognise the manner in which ADHD presents in females. This can cause delays in getting an assessment and treatment. In addition, the signs of ADHD can worsen at various times throughout women's lives, based on hormonal changes. These include pregnancy, menstruation (the period before menopausal), perimenopause, and menopausal.
ADHD symptoms can affect school, work, and relationships. In adulthood, this can result in having difficulty keeping a job, or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of use depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to problems with managing finances, making important decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
If you're having difficulty focusing or focusing at work, talk to your employer. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home for a few hours. You can also inquire about support services, such as Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
Also, keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. The symptoms you experience are not the result of laziness or low self-esteem. You can still meet your goals and be successful. It may just require some extra effort and planning.
If you're a woman with ADHD, you can learn more about it 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 assessed by a trained professional. They can offer advice and guidance about the benefits you're entitled to, how to access solutions and dealing with workplace issues. If you're employed in a workplace, they can help you determine whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. 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 able to receive medications to treat their symptoms. The drugs used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular check-ups with your GP are recommended to monitor your or your child's progress and ensure that the medication is effective.
Adults suffering from ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can change with time and are usually affected by life events, like hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
For many people with 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. Women and girls with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in a group or individually with an therapist. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy well-balanced diet and exercising regularly are also helpful. It is important to consult your physician before making any changes in your diet or taking any supplements.
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD need to seek help from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women with the same disorder and share their experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a combination treatment approach, like medication and behavioral therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation like planners can be beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. Getting enough physical activity can boost concentration and mood and eating a balanced and healthy diet is essential for overall health and wellbeing.
In the modern world women and girls with ADHD are in a constant state of stress and pressure. These can be related to the pressures of being a loving parent or partner, running household duties and performing well at work. This makes it more difficult to cope with ADHD and increase the likelihood that mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, could develop.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They might exhibit emotions such as anger and mood swings, as well as a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also worsen during periods of hormonal changes, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from mental health issues like anxiety and depression. adhd in women signs can alter the way their symptoms appear and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available for women and girls with ADHD. There are many online support groups, resources, and charitable organizations. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls that provides important information, events and support groups. This includes peer support groups and a forum where users can ask questions.
If a person is suffering from significant ADHD problems and is experiencing significant difficulties with ADHD, they should consult their GP to get an assessment. The GP may recommend the employee to a service that is the most appropriate, like a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist. However, it is important to be aware that due to the lack of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some people are unable to be assessed. This could be because their issues are believed to be due to another issue, like a mental health problem or an addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if someone's ADHD significantly impacts their work, it can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could be an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
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