ADHD in Women and Girls

According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized in girls and women. This comes at a high cost for both individuals and the economy.

Symptoms can be more difficult to recognize in females because they present differently than males. It can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.

Signs and symptoms

Women suffering from adhd in women over 50 might have a difficult in telling their healthcare providers that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may be embarrassed by asking for help, and may be worried that their doctor won't take them seriously. Some women have difficulty finding treatment providers who understand the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.

Adults suffering from ADHD are typically identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a difficult time staying focused. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattention-related symptoms include issues 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 during conversations.

Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be prone to anger outbursts, become overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. They may have difficulty with spelling or math. They may also have difficulty keeping up with their exercise routines or making healthy food choices.

It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than it is in men due to gender-based stereotypes about sex and behaviour. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a difficult time getting identified, especially at school where they're often mistakenly identified as suffering from depression or anxiety.

Many women suffering from adhd traits in women also experience a worsening of adhd in women uk (view website) symptoms during menopause and perimenopausal periods. This is because when women start to go through menopause their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor or specialist.

Women can also benefit by discussing their issues with their colleagues and teachers to determine what accommodations they can request to improve their performance at work or at school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their professor or boss however, some do it with success and find that their schools and workplaces are more than willing to offer reasonable accommodations.

Diagnosis

If you suspect you may have ADHD, it's important to visit your GP. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist or give you an assessment based on the criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes looking at your symptoms over time, your history and any issues they may have caused.

Many healthcare professionals fail to recognize the ways in which ADHD manifests in women. This can lead to delays in getting an assessment and treatment. In addition, the symptoms of ADHD can become worse at various times throughout a woman's life, depending on the hormonal changes. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the run-up to menopause) and the menopausal phase itself.

The signs of adhd symptoms in women test can also impact relationships at work, school and social. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs and be at risk for substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances as well as making decisions and balancing multiple priorities.

If you are having trouble concentrating or focusing at work, talk to your employer. There are ways to help, like offering more breaks or the option of working from home on occasion. You can also 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 issue and your symptoms aren't a result of being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and be successful. It may just require some more planning and effort.

Find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact a private organisation that offers ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of for a fee, but you will be assessed by a professional. They can provide assistance and advice on claiming benefits, finding solutions to workplace issues. If you're working, they can advise on whether you're eligible for Enhanced Disability Living Allowance as well as Access to Work. This can assist in paying for things like specialised equipment and adaptations in the workplace.

Treatment

Women and girls with ADHD may be prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is essential to discuss any potential adverse effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to track the growth of your child's or yourself and make sure that the medication is effective.

Adults suffering from ADHD typically show signs of carelessness, poor organisation as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulties staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time, and are frequently influenced by life events, such as pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal changes.

Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. Changes in the behavior and thoughts you make can improve your symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of behavior and thinking.

CBT can be carried out in one-on-one sessions with a therapist or in groups. Other methods that some consider beneficial include eating an wholesome diet, attempting to avoid sugary or caffeine-rich foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. But it is important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.

Girls and women who suffer from ADHD should seek support from family and friends, as well as colleagues. They can join support groups in order to meet women who have the same problem and share experiences.

Women with ADHD might also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment approach, like behavioral therapy and medication. Using organisation tools like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. Getting enough physical activity can help improve mood and focus while eating a balanced and healthy diet is vital to overall health and well-being.

In the modern world there are many girls and women who with ADHD are in a constant state of pressure and stress. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern-day society, such as being a good parent or partner or managing a household, as well as being productive at work. This can increase the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and may increase the likelihood of other mental health issues that are developing, like anxiety or depression.

Support

Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They might experience emotional symptoms like irritability, mood swings and a low self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition can also worsen during periods of hormonal changes, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from other mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms appear and make it more difficult to manage.

The good news is that there is plenty of support available for girls and women suffering from ADHD. There are numerous online resources, support groups, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that provides important information, events and support groups. There are peer support groups as well as an online forum where people can ask questions.

If a person is suffering from significant ADHD difficulties, they should contact their GP to get an assessment. The doctor can refer them to the appropriate service, which could be a mental health clinic or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It's important to remember that some individuals find it difficult to be admitted to an assessment due to a lack of clinical awareness or long waiting periods. This might be because their issues are believed to be caused by another issue, such as mental health issues or addiction, instead of ADHD.

It's also worth noting that if someone's ADHD affects their work in a significant way, it can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include a flexible 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 offer a variety of wellness and occupational health interventions, such as coaching programs, e-learning modules and mindfulness classes. If you'd like to know more about how we can help your business, get in touch today.