ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still not properly diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is at a huge cost to the individual and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to identify because they look different than the men's. This can be exacerbated also by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed to ask for help, and they fear that their doctor won't consider the condition seriously. Women may find it difficult to find healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it impacts their lives as an adult.
Adults suffering from ADHD are often identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness, and difficulty staying focused. Women are more likely to have the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with organisation and planning, being forgetful or missing appointments, not finishing tasks, getting distracted easily or forgetting what was said during conversations.
Women may also have difficulties controlling their emotions and impulses. They are prone to anger outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have problems with social relationships. They may struggle with math or spelling. They may also have trouble keeping up with their exercise routines or making healthy choices for their diet.
Because of gender-based stereotypes about sex and behavior, it's more difficult for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might be more difficult to be diagnosed, particularly at school where they are often mistakenly diagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Many women who suffer from ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal periods. This is because as women start to go through menopause their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can worsen the symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
It can also be beneficial for women to talk about their issues with colleagues or teachers to find out what accommodations they may be able to request to improve their performance at work or in school. Many people who suffer from ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their boss or professor 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 is important to visit your GP in the event that you suspect you might have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to an expert or provide you with an diagnosis based on criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include examining your symptoms over time, your medical history and any problems they've caused.
Many healthcare professionals do not recognise how ADHD manifests in women. This can lead to delays in obtaining a diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at different times during the woman's life, based on hormonal changes. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy (the menopausal cycle), perimenopause, and menopause.
The signs of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. In adulthood, this may result in having difficulty keeping a job, or being in a relationship, and being at risk of misuse, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances, making critical decisions and balancing many priorities.
Speak to your employer if you're having difficulty focusing or focusing on work. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home at times. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological issue and your symptoms aren't caused by being lazy or having low self-esteem. You can still succeed and reach your goals. It may just require some extra effort and planning.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD, you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies that offer ADHD assessments. You could be charged for a fee, but you will be assessed by a professional. They will also provide assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, finding solutions and dealing with workplace issues. They can also tell you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you're employed. This can help pay for things like special equipment and adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants. However, it is crucial to discuss potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also recommended to monitor your or your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is working properly.
Adults with ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulty staying on task or recalling things. The symptoms can change over time and are frequently influenced by life events, such as pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal changes.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be an effective treatment. Changing the behavior and thoughts you make can help reduce your symptoms and boost self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be carried out in a group setting or one-on-one with an therapist. Other therapies that many find helpful are eating a balanced diet, trying to stay away from caffeine-rich or sugary foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. It is crucial to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for women and girls with ADHD to receive assistance from their families, friends and colleagues. They can also join a support group in order to meet other women with the same condition and share their experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a mix treatment method, such as behavioral therapy and medication. Making use of tools for organization, such as planners are helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Getting enough physical activity can help improve concentration and mood while eating a balanced diet is vital for overall health and well-being.
In modern society women and girls with ADHD are in a constant state of pressure and stress. This can be due to the pressures of modern life including being a good partner or parent, managing a household and performing well at work. This can make it more difficult to deal with ADHD and increase the risk that mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, could develop.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD often feel misunderstood by people around them. They might exhibit emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, and a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder can also become worse during times of hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way that the symptoms manifest and may make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of help available to girls and women with ADHD. There are a variety of online resources, support groups and charities. ADHD UK's website features a page dedicated to women and girls and includes helpful information and events. These include peer support meetings and a forum where people 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 will be able to refer them to the most appropriate service which could be a community mental health clinic or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to note that some people find it difficult to be referred to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or long waiting periods. This could be because their issues are believed to be caused by a different issue, like a mental health problem or addiction, instead of ADHD.
It's also important to note that if an individual's ADHD affects their work in a significant way and performance, it could be deemed a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be the ability to work from home or support and training at work.
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