ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still under-diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This comes at a significant cost to individuals 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 the menstrual period, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may have a difficult in telling their healthcare providers that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may feel embarrassed asking for help and fear that their healthcare 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.
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted and impulsivity. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive kind of ADHD than men. Inattention symptoms include issues with planning, organisation, forgetfulness or being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, being distracted easily, and not remembering what you said during a conversation.
Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be susceptible to anger outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have issues with social interactions. They may have difficulty with spelling or math. They may also have trouble keeping up with their exercise routines or making healthy choices for their diet.
It's also harder to spot ADHD symptoms in women than in men because of gender-based stereotypes about sexuality and behavior. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may be more difficult to be diagnosed, particularly at school, where they are often mistakenly identified as having anxiety or depression.
Additionally that, many women suffering from ADHD experience worsening symptoms during perimenopause and menopause. This is because when women start to go through menopause their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can worsen the symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor.
It can also be helpful for women to talk about their issues with colleagues or teachers to discover what accommodations they might be able to request to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people who suffer from ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their boss or professor however some have had the right solution and are discovering that their workplaces and school are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD it is important to see your GP. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or diagnose you based on the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include examining your symptoms over time, your medical history and any issues they may have caused.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than males, as many healthcare professionals don't recognise the way ADHD presents in females. This can cause delays in the diagnosis and treatment. adhd in older women of ADHD may get worse based on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the period leading up to menopausal) and the menopausal phase itself.
The symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. In adulthood, this may mean having trouble with keeping a job, or being in a relationship, and being at risk of abuse as well as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges in managing finances as well as making decisions and managing multiple priorities.
Talk to your employer if you are having difficulty focusing or focusing on work. There may be ways to help, like offering more breaks or the option of working from home on occasion. You can also ask about support services such as Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial assistance.
You should also be aware that ADHD is a neurological condition. Your symptoms aren't caused by lack of motivation or self-esteem. You can still succeed and achieve your goals. It might just take 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 organisations that offer ADHD assessments. They might charge fees, but you'll be assessed by a trained professional. They can also offer advice and assistance in claiming benefits, locating solutions and dealing with workplace issues. They can also tell you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This can provide money to help with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD might be prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. The medications prescribed can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any adverse effects with your GP prior to implementing treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to keep track of your child's progress and ensure that the medication is effective.
Adults who suffer from ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulties staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can change with time and are usually affected by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy and menopause.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a successful treatment. By changing the way you act and think, you can reduce your symptoms and improve your self-esteem. Women and girls with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be done in one-on-one sessions with a therapist or in groups. Some people discover that eating a balanced eating plan, exercising regularly are beneficial. But it is important to consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is essential for women and girls with ADHD to receive support from their family, friends and colleagues. They can also join a support group to meet other women who have the same condition and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment strategy, such as medication and behavioral therapy. Making use of tools for organization, such as planners are helpful in managing their day-today lives and keeping track of deadlines. Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve the mood and focus, while eating a balanced and healthy diet is vital for overall health and wellbeing.
In our modern world women and girls with ADHD are under a lot of stress and pressure. This can be due to the pressures of being a loving spouse or parent, running a household and doing well at work. This could make it harder to deal with ADHD and increase the risk that mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, will develop.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They might experience emotional symptoms like anger, mood swings, and a lack of self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder can also worsen during periods of hormonal change such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues like depression and anxiety. These can impact the way that their symptoms manifest and can be more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of help available to girls and women suffering from ADHD. There are numerous online resources, support groups and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls that provides helpful information, events, and support groups. This includes peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is suffering from significant difficulties with their ADHD or other ADHD-related issues, they should speak to their GP to discuss an assessment. The GP can send them to the most appropriate service which could be a community mental health clinic or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It's important to remember that some individuals have difficulty being referred to an assessment due to a lack clinical awareness or long waiting periods. It may be that their problems are attributed 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, it can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They are entitled to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be a flexible schedule or additional support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can assist businesses in creating an environment of wellbeing and support for their employees. We offer a variety of wellness and occupational health interventions, including coaching programs, eLearning modules and mindfulness classes. Contact us today to find out more about our assistance for your business.