ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD in women with attention deficit disorder and girls is still not properly diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to individuals and the economy.

The symptoms can be difficult to identify for females due to the fact that they appear differently than males. This is also caused by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy.

Symptoms

Women suffering from ADHD can have a hard time telling their healthcare providers that they have symptoms of the condition. They may feel embarrassed seeking help and worry that their doctor will not be able to take them seriously. Women may find it difficult to find healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it impacts them as they grow older.

Adults who suffer from ADHD are often identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a difficult time staying focused. Women are more prone to the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattention symptoms include issues with planning, organisation and forgetfulness, or missing appointments, not completing tasks, being distracted easily and not being able to remember what you said during the course of a conversation.

Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be susceptible to anger outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have problems with social interactions. They may struggle with spelling or math. They might be unable to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy food choices.

Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior, it's harder for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-linked symptoms may have a harder time being recognized as having the disorder, particularly at school, where they can get misdiagnosed for depression or anxiety.

Many women who suffer from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopausal. As women begin to enter menopause they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. This is why it is crucial for women to keep track of 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 could request to improve their performance in the workplace or at school. Many people with ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their professor or boss however some have had the right solution and are finding that their workplaces and schools are happy to accommodate reasonable requests.

Diagnosis

It's important that you see your GP if you suspect you might have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at the symptoms you are experiencing, your history, and any problems that 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 diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy (the run-up before menopause) as well as perimenopausal and menopausal.

The symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. In adulthood, this can result in having difficulty maintaining a job or in a relationship, and being at risk of abuse depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It could also cause difficulties with managing finances, making important decisions and balancing multiple priorities.

If you're having difficulty focusing or paying attention at work, speak with your employer. There are ways to help, like offering more breaks or the option of working from home occasionally. You might also want to inquire about support services, such as Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.

It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological condition, so your symptoms aren't caused by being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You can still succeed and reach your goals. It's going to require some more planning and effort.

You can learn more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also reach out to a private organization that provides ADHD assessments. They may charge an amount, but you'll be assessed by a trained professional. They can provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, finding solutions to workplace issues. They can also advise you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you're employed. This can help pay for things like special equipment and modifications at the workplace.

Treatment

Girls and women with ADHD are prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The medications used are stimulants and non-stimulants. However, it is crucial to discuss possible side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to check the growth of your child's or yourself and ensure that the medication is effective.

Adults suffering from ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time and are often influenced by life events like menopausal, pregnancy, and hormonal changes.

For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a very effective treatment. By changing the way you behave and think, you can reduce your symptoms as well as improve your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of behavior and thinking.

CBT can be done in one-on-one sessions, with a therapist, or in a group. Other treatments that some people consider beneficial include eating a balanced diet, trying to avoid sugary or caffeine-rich foods and getting plenty of exercise. It is crucial to speak with your physician before making any changes in your diet or taking supplements.

It is important for women and girls with ADHD to seek out assistance from their families, friends and colleagues. They can join support groups in order to connect with other women who have the same problem and share experiences.

Women with ADHD may also benefit from a combination of treatment methods like therapy and medication. Using organisation tools such as planners are beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are important for health and wellbeing.

Many girls and women with ADHD experience a high level of stress and pressure in modern society. These can be related to the expectations Types of adhd in women being a loving parent or partner, managing household chores and performing well at work. This can add adult women to the challenges of coping with ADHD, and can increase the likelihood of mental health issues developing, such as depression or anxiety.

Support

Girls and women who suffer from adhd in adult women treatment are often unappreciated. They might exhibit emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood swings, and an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of the condition can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, for example during menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Many people with ADHD also have other mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way their symptoms appear and 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 support groups, resources, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that provides helpful information, events, and support groups. This includes peer support groups and a forum where users can ask questions.

If an employee is experiencing significant adhd adult women test issues and is experiencing significant difficulties with ADHD, they should consult their GP to have an assessment. The GP can refer them to the appropriate service that could be a local mental health service or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to be aware that due to the absence of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some individuals find it hard to be admitted for an assessment. This could be due to the fact that their challenges are thought to be caused by a different issue, such as mental health issues or addiction, instead of ADHD.

It's also worth noting that if a person's ADHD significantly impacts their work and performance, it could be deemed a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have the legal right to make reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could be an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.

At Optima Health, we can assist businesses in creating an internal culture of wellness and support for their employees. We provide a range of wellness and occupational health interventions, including coaching programs, eLearning modules, and mindfulness workshops. If you'd like to know more about how we can help your business, get in touch now.